Pioneer Shows Off Augmented Reality-Wielding GPS System

Here’s a glimpse of what to expect from future GPS systems. Pioneer, a well-known Japanese company for car accessories, has unveiled a GPS system called AVIC-VH09CS which makes use of Augmented Reality.

The gears that augment your reality

For the novice, augmented reality is about providing information on a location once the camera is focused on that place. e.g. LAYAR for Android provides you with real time information when you focus the camera on a restaurant, night club, etc. So, Pioneer has used this concept in their GPS system and for once, it definitely looks impressive.

Tofu Station on your left!

The AVIC-VH09CS consists of a camera that has to be installed on the car’s windshield and once activated; you’ll get all real time information as you reach your destination. This GPS system can identify stores, guide you through lanes and can also provide you with information on vehicles and traffic lights.

The whole system consists of an AR scouter with a 7-inch LCD screen. Pioneer has also thrown in Bluetooth, a DVD player, a USB card slot and a 5.1 channel center speaker as well. While the deal certainly looks sweet, the whole system is said to cost $3,700 (approx Rs. 165,300) which is bound to burn a hole in your pocket. It hasn't arrived in India yet, but lets hope that it does and gets a major price cut as well!