Virtual Tags Introduces Augmented Reality Avatars in Version 2

Geotagging iOS app update blurs boundaries between worlds by introducing augmented reality avatars to share location-based information. End Quote

(1888PressRelease) July 04, 2011 - Italian iOS app developer Fabrizio Bartolomucci has announced version 2.0 of his Augmented Reality app, Virtual Tags incorporating a number of new social networking features. Similar to other geotagging apps, Virtual Tags allow users to create messages, known as clouds, based on their physical location which are then shared with other Virtual Tag users. These geotags are displayed on the screen of their iPhone or iPad as an overlay of the user's physical environment, giving a real-time view of previous visitors to that location.

Said lead developer Dr Fabrizio Bartolomucci, 'Virtual Tags version 2 has been redesigned to allow users to create their own ghostlike beings which inhabit the Augmented Reality view, following the user as they move. As groups of Virtual Tags users assemble together, the app display will begin to show similar clusters of ghosts blurring the line between physical and augmented realities. Karl Marx once stated that 'a spectre is haunting Europe' but unlike his communist vision, Virtual Tags will allow users to 'haunt' the world in new and fun ways.'

The introduction of Augmented Reality (AR) ghosts allows for several interesting potential scenarios for users of Virtual Tags as they are shadowed by their avatar within the app. Virtual Tags users will be able to easily identify other users of the same app as their avatars come into close proximity, providing the potential for formation of new friendships based on mutual interests. Virtual Tags version 2 will also allow for expansion of the flash mob craze into the augmented reality as app users will also be accompanied by their ghost, creating the unusual sight of two crowds, one real and one virtual.

Virtual Tags is also being used by Italian companies as a way of generating new business via social media buzz. Clouds are posted near business outlets with details of products or services, allowing Virtual Tags users to take advantage of special offers and to leave their own reviews based on their experiences. As uptake of Virtual Tags increases, more businesses worldwide are expected to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the app to raise their profile and encourage interaction with their customers.

Virtual Tags version 2 also adds support for legacy devices such as the iPod Touch which do not contain a compass further boosting the app's potential user base. New sound effects have also been added to alert users to the presence of nearby clouds and ghosts.

Virtual Tags is available for download from the iTunes App Store now.

Based in Rome, Italy, Virtual Tags is the brainchild of Dr Fabrizio Bartolomucci. Bartolomucci has been developing computer software since his youth, before graduating in 1988 with a degree in Computer Science from the University of Pisa. Virtual Tags has received a number of positive reviews from iOS specialist blogs including AppGiveAway, SlapStart and KillerStartups thanks to the flexibility of the app and friendly nature of its user community.

To read more about Virtual Tags including a number of product reviews, please visit their website at http://www.virtualtags.net

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