Worcester unveils first augmented reality app for installers

Worcester Bosch has launched a first-of-its-kind app for the heating sector which will allow installers to promote Worcester boilers to their customers via augmented reality (AR).

The app will prove to be an invaluable pre-sales tool for heating engineers, allowing them and their customers to visualise Worcester products in-situ, by showing a computer-generated boiler model in real-time at a customer’s property.

The free to download AR app is currently compatible with Worcester’s popular Greenstar CDI Classic, Ri, i, and Compact boiler ranges. Using an A4 image as a marker for the product, installers simply place the marker onto a wall or surface via a static stick. Installers can then choose the type of boiler they’d like to view and scan the marker through the app for the boiler to appear on the tablet, in-situ.

While the 3D representation of the boiler is presented in front of a customer, the installer can take the case off at the push of a button and explore individual components in more detail. What’s more, installers can move around the boiler while the marker is still within the app’s frame to give customers a true reflection of its dimensions.

The computer-generated boiler model can be seen in real-time in a specific location via the app’s ‘life size view’ option, allowing installers to view the boiler on a table or a worktop with their customer. What’s more, when selecting ‘features view’, the installer is presented with a series of ‘hotspots’ which contain features and benefits of that particular product.

For ultimate convenience, the app is able to work without an internet connection and makes it simple for a screenshot of the boiler in-situ to be sent to the customer.

Martyn Bridges, Director of Technical Communication and Product Management at Worcester Bosch, comments: “With smartphones and tablets being an essential handheld item for most, apps have become a familiar tool for installers and customers alike. Augmented reality is a new arena for us and we are delighted to have developed this pre-sales app with the help of installers. The ability to see how it’s design fits with a room’s décor and available space is important for homeowners and the AR app will give heating engineers the confidence to sell products and answer any questions customers might have.”

The Worcester Bosch AR app is now available to download for free via the App Store and on Google Play.

To download a marker to get started with the app and for more information, please visit www.worcester-bosch.co.uk/AR