Augmented reality is hot right now. So many major tech companies are investing heavily on the technology, betting that it is the next big thing. Apple has devoted major sections of its keynotes in recent years to discuss breakthroughs in the tech. Pixar had to make the jump into the space eventually – the time for that is now!
Toy Story 4 characters represent Pixar’s first foray into AR. The Regal app for iPhones (the app will technically work on iPads, but it is not optimized for the iPad’s larger screen) debuted two different attempts at AR. First, there are a selection of Toy Story 4 posters that, if you point your camera at them, will spring to life. The character in the poster may move slightly or the lights in the image will twinkle. It is a simple but cool effect that will remind you a bit of the paintings seen throughout the world of Harry Potter.
The Regal app also lets you bring a selection of Toy Story 4 characters into the real world. Woody, Buzz, Bo Peep, and Forky made the cut – once shown in your environment on your iPhone screen, you can move the characters around, interact with them, and of course, take pictures of them in various settings. Again, these are simple AR implementations, but seeing these characters come alive is still impressive.
“Regal is thrilled to provide moviegoers with Pixar’s first ever augmented reality experience that allows fans to interact with their favorite characters,” said Chris Sylvia, vice president of media at Regal. “It is more important than ever to be at the forefront of technological development. At Regal, we aim to bring top-of-the-line technology and practical application together to create an unparalleled experience for our guests.”
Now, you can take these characters wherever you go. Do you want to go to Disneyland and take a picture of Forky standing in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle? Go ahead. Do you want to see how Forky would look in Walt Disney World’s Toy Story Land? Use the app and you can find out.
You can download the Regal app here. If you click on the Toy Story 4 logo on the top right of the app, you will be able to go to town on the AR. Get creative and have fun with it!
