Telstra, Google and Accenture partner on augmented reality

Telstra, Google and Accenture have jointly develop a new 5G powered augmented reality (AR) wayfinding experience.

Visitors to Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium will be able to enjoy new augmented reality experiences in which digital information is superimposed onto a real-world environment. 

Showcased at the Google I/O developers conference, the AR wayfinding experience pioneers the latest in Telstra’s 5G developments, delivered on Google Cloud, with machine learning and computer-vision powered by the ARCore Geospatial API from Google. 

Telstra is working with the AFL and Marvel Stadium to launch the new AR wayfinding experience ahead of next year’s footy season.

According to Kim Krogh Andersen, Telstra Group executive products and technology, “This collaboration with two major technology players marks another important step in our ambition to create one of the world's most technologically advanced stadiums here in Australia. It will enable us to deepen our partnership with the AFL and deliver more immersive and innovative experiences for fans at Marvel Stadium.

“We are excited by the potential of this augmented reality experience and how our leadership in 5G can accelerate growth and value creation in other industries and settings such as hospitals, shopping centres and airports to improve the customer experience.”

Google trekker devices were used in the development of the experience to create a metric model of Marvel Stadium that represents the appearance and position of the physical 3D world. GPS readings and environment scans were then matched with 360-degree images using the ARCore Geospatial API.

The solution gives users the ability to interact with content, digital character displays, virtual brand experiences and indoor wayfinding, among other features.

“Not only will it make it easier to explore the grounds at Marvel Stadium, but it also has huge potential to create more immersive and interactive experiences for fans, “ said Alister Dias, VP, Australia & New Zealand, Google Cloud.

“This is only the beginning of how cloud-powered 5G AR wayfinding solutions can be used to enhance in-person experiences for all Australians." 

Emma Neil, Accenture managing director and ANZ communications, media & technology group lead said the immersive experience will be provided through the app, in pre-game AR shows, multi-user AR games, enhanced player analytics and performance statistics amongst other exclusive content.

Telstra has been working with the AFL to evolve the stadium experience, which includes a 5G upgrade to support connectivity for fans and applications such as artificial intelligence, in-stadium streaming and on-field player performance tracking.  
 
Kylie Rogers, AFL executive general manager customer and commercial said, “This Augmented Reality (AR) wayfinding application is a great example of using the power of the partners the AFL has to deliver something to our fans that elevates their game-day experience.”   
 
Telstra says its 5G is now available in over 350 towns and cities, covering more than 77.5 percent of Australia’s population.