Russian Company Launches Augmented Reality Walking Navigation
The new AR feature helps shoppers find their way inside massive malls without relying on GPS.
The Russian mapping company 2GIS has rolled out an indoor navigation system powered by augmented reality (AR). The feature activates when users plot walking routes that begin or end inside a shopping mall. After selecting the AR option, the app instructs users to point their phone’s camera at nearby signs; the system then determines the user’s location inside the building and overlays a blue arrow on the live feed to indicate the correct direction.
Green markers on the screen show the entire path, helping users orient themselves, spot escalators or exits in advance, and make timely turns. The system requires an internet connection but doesn’t depend on GPS or other geolocation signals.
The AR navigation service will first launch in Moscow and St. Petersburg, with additional malls across Russia set to join later.
