Late last year, Mercedes-Benz USA rolled out the pilot of a new augmented reality application known as “Ask Mercedes” that allows customers to explore features of their vehicle in an engaging and intuitive way. The new service makes use of augmented reality technology that supplements a camera image with computer-generated content.
With the application’s augmented reality capabilities, customers can get an answer to questions about operating their new vehicle in real time without ever opening an owner’s manual. Owners of a 2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class or S-Class (non-AMG) can use the application to get to know their vehicle and its functionalities by using their smartphone camera to discover interior features and functions by scanning controls and displays. Once the feature has been visually identified, the system explains the corresponding function to the customer via text descriptions, photo and video content or providing the customer the option to directly link to the section of the digital owner’s manual relevant to that feature.
In a new Mercedes-Benz E-Class and S-Class, it is possible to get to know the vehicle functions even better thanks to the app’s augmented reality functionality. If a smartphone is directed at the dashboard, steering wheel or centre console, augmented reality beacons are automatically superimposed onto the controls and displays shown in the camera image. If the user then clicks or taps on a beacon, information is provided on the corresponding feature and its function.
The pilot of “Ask Mercedes” first launched in late 2017 with augmented reality functions for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (non-AMG) model lineup. The application recently added capabilities for the 2018 S-Class and is expected to gradually expand in the coming months to additional model lines in the US. “Ask Mercedes” is currently available for download in the Apple App Store and will be supported on iPhones 6 and newer running iOS 10 or higher.
Genesis offers an augmented reality manuals for its G80 and G90 in the US market.
Check out Chevrolet’s mixed-reality showroom experience in South Korea.
