In the last eight years, there has been a decline in the time spent with print media, as younger readers have shifted towards digital readers, tablets, and smartphones. To attract young readers to print media, some early innovators in publishing have started experimenting with Augmented Reality in publishing. Here are top five examples of must-see AR books:
1. ‘Wonderbook: Book of Spells from J.K. Rowling’
Released in November 2012, «Wonderbook™: Book of Spells» for PlayStation 3 offers an Augmented Reality book experience that works with the PlayStation Move Motion Controller and the PlayStation Eye Camera. Readers can immerse themselves in the world of Harry Potter’s Hogwarts, casting spells using the motion-sensitive controller as a magic wand. J.K. Rowling describes it as an extraordinary device that provides a unique reading experience.
2. ‘Princess and her Pals 3-D’ from Popar Interactive Books for Kids
Popar Toys introduces Augmented Reality storybooks that bring pages to life with 3-D animations of princesses, castles, read-alongs, and games for children aged 5 to 11. The series received accolades like «Best Toy of the Toy Fair 2012» and the National Parenting Seal of Approval.
3. ‘Moby Dick’ from Interactive Novels by Penguin Books
Penguin Books collaborated with Zappar to enhance classic novels like «Moby Dick» with Augmented Reality experiences. This print to AR hybrid aims to engage readers in a new way, bringing the covers of classic novels to life.
4. ‘Monsters Inc., An Augmented Reality Book’ by Carlton Books Kids
As part of a larger Augmented Reality book series, Carlton Books Kids released an interactive book based on Disney’s Monsters Inc. Readers can explore Monstropolis through their PC webcam, interact with animated monsters, and discover exclusive facts about their favorite characters.
5. ‘King of the Railway, An Augmented Reality Book with Thomas & Friends’ by Carlton Books Kids
In collaboration with iDinosaur and iSolarSystem creators, Carlton Books Kids will release an Augmented Reality book alongside the film «King of the Railway with Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends.» This book will offer four unique AR experiences viewable on smartphones or tablets through a companion app, allowing readers to interact with familiar characters and meet new ones from the film.
Do you know, that you can create your own digital project in a couple of minutes. Check the Stories AR platform for the details.
