Scanning Real-World Objects

Another report by 9to5Mac reveals a new app that will be found in iOS 14 that will take augmented reality to a whole new level by allowing users to scan and identify objects in the real world.

Code-named “Gobi,” this app looks like it would also power Apple’s upcoming AR headset, although for now it primarily seems to be focused on identifying products on store shelves to display pricing and compare features.

According to 9to5Mac, the code also suggests that Apple is not only planning to implement the feature in its own stores (naturally), but may be partnering with Starbucks as well. It’s a little bit less clear how this kind of AR feature would fit into Starbucks, but among coffee shops it certainly does seem an appropriate proving ground for the new technology.

Apparently QR-code or iBeacon tags would be used to let the iPhone or iPad know which AR experience to load up, helping manage the expectations of what the AR system would be seeing, and of course Apple ultimately plans to open this up to third parties, although it’s not clear whether it would be an open SDK for just anybody to use, or if Apple will only invite certain partners into the playground.