SBB launches first version of its AR app

Anyone with an Android mobile phone running Google's AR Core platform can now test SBB's augmented reality app. It is designed to make it easier to find your way around Zurich main station.

SBB has published a preview version of its augmented reality app. It is available free of charge at Google Play Store - but not for all Android devices. For example, anyone using a Xiaomi Mi A2 Lite with Android 9 will not find the app in the Play Store. There is also no version for Apple's iOS devices. According to SBB, the app is only available for ARCore-capable Smartphones.

SBB is testing the app as part of its "My Smart Station Zurich HB" initiative. It is designed to help with orientation and travel planning at Zurich main station. Travellers should receive information exactly where they need it, for example on public transport around the main station.

For example, if the traveller leaves the station and points their smartphone camera at the bus or tram stops, the app displays the respective departure times. If you point the camera at a platform indicator, the app displays details about intermediate stops or the utilisation of the carriage.

Source: Netzwoche