Layar Browser - FAQ

What is Layar?
Layar is an open mobile platform on which augmented reality content is created and published by third-party developers.

What is Augmented Reality?
Augmented Reality (AR), in a general sense, is any technology that lets you view digital information within a useful context in the real world. Viewing first-down and offsides lines while watching sports on television is a very basic form of augmented reality. With Layar, you can use AR to find locations of points of interest, view information about objects in your area, explore digital art, and much more.

What is the Layar Reality Browser?
Layar Reality Browser is a mobile application that lets you browse a catalog of augmented reality experiences built by third-party developers for the Layar platform.

How does Layar work?
Layar works by using a combination of the mobile phone’s camera, GPS, compass, accelerometer and a mobile Internet connection. The camera captures the world as seen through its lens and shows it on the screen. The GPS determines the exact location and the compass and accelerometer determine the direction of view. Based on these sensors and the selected layer, digital information is retrieved over a mobile Internet connection and augmented on top of the camera view.

What is a layer?
A layer is an individual subset of digital information which is augmented on top of a the camera view of a mobile device. If you think of the Layar Browser like a Web browser, layers are like different websites you view in that browser. Layers can provide services, like helping determine the location of ATMs, restaurants and homes for sale. Layers can also provide a digital experience with interactivity, 3D objects and sounds. There are thousands of layers to choose from across the globe in a number of different categories including Art, Architecture & Buildings, Food & Drink, Local Information, Games, Transportation and much more.

How much does Layar cost?
Layar technology is always free for end-users. While there is no cost to build a points-of-interest-based geo layer, the developer/publisher may incur some cost when using Layar Vision technology, depending on the layer's level of usage. Please see the pricing page for more detailed information.

What is Layar Vision?
Layar Vision is an extension of the Layar platform, taking augmented reality to the next level. With the help of our industry-leading install base of 10 million devices, we’re opening the door for over 10,000 developers to create an entirely new kind of AR experience for a massive audience. Please see the Layar Vision page for more information.

When will Layar Browser with Vision be available in mobile app stores?
Layar Vision is now available in the Android Market and the iTunes App Store.

Which devices does Layar run on?
The Layar Browser is compatible with the iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPad 2 with 3G, the Nokia C7, C6-01, E7, N8 and N97, BlackBerry Torch 9800/9810 and 9850/9860, and BlackBerry Bold 9900/9930, as well as devices running Android 2.2 or higher. 

Layar Vision features are compatible with supported iPhone & Android devices, but are currently not available for Symbian or BlackBerry. 

Why is my device not supported?
Layar requires specific hardware and software to function properly, including GPS receivers, accelerometers and a digital compass. Any device on the iOS, Android, Symbian or BlackBerry platforms that lack these features cannot run Layar. Other platforms, like Windows Phone 7 or WebOS, are currently not supported.

How do I install Layar?
For iPhone/iPad, simply launch the App Store and search for “Layar.” Similarly, search for “Layar” in the Android Market, Nokia Ovi Store or BlackBerry App World. After finding Layar, simply hit the “Install” button to download Layar.

How do I find popular layers near me?
To find the most popular content on the Layar Reality Browser, simply open the app, tap the “Layers” tab, and then select “Popular.” Here you can find the most popular layers in your immediate area, in your country or across the world.

Can I create my own layer?
Yes, you can! There are a few ways to accomplish this. If you are a developer with programming know-how, you can create a Layar Developer account and code your own layer that connects to a server you have set up. If all of that sounds too complicated, you can also use one of many Layar Creation Tools, which are third-party services that make it easy to create your own basic layers. For brands, see our list of Layar Partners that will gladly help you create your own layer!