Users can ‘view’ the city as it was during the late-Victorian era at six locations, or embark on a culture and literary focused 3.5mile augmented reality route.
The Digital Ipswich programme has been made possible by £2.3million in UK Government funding for AI software which runs through the ‘digital binocular’ equipment, delivering an immersive experience for the public.
From this summer, six streets which are considered significant sites of local cultural heritage will go live, allowing anyone to look through the kit for free and get a glimpse of the way we lived more than 100 years ago.
‘Whether you’re nine or ninety, tech-savvy or not, this experience is for you,’ said Neil MacDonald, Leader of Ipswich Borough Council. ‘We’re proud that Ipswich will be the first town in the country to freely offer this inclusive, dynamic attraction – and it’s just the beginning of our commitment to innovation that benefits everyone.’
The launch follows the opening of a new self-guided walking trail which celebrates the rich literary, artistic and cultural history of the city — also developed by Digital Ipswich. By logging into the Go Jauntly app through a smartphone, the public can engage with the Ipswich Journey of Words Trail, which uses augmented reality to reveal ‘hidden gems’, blue plaques and landmarks along a 3.5mile route from Christchurch Park to Holywells Park.
‘We’re proud to see such innovation being made possible through Towns Fund investment and partnership working,’ said David Ralph, Chair of Ipswich Vision and Town Deal Board. ‘This AR Walking Trail is a new, different, and highly engaging way to showcase our literary heritage and cultural connections to residents and visitors alike. Many more of these exciting digital developments are now well-advanced and coming soon to enhance Suffolk’s County town and its connectivity with the world.’
Image: Gayatri Malhotra / Unsplash
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