Spectroscope
About the Project
Spectroscope is an AR-based application designed to entertain visitors in pubs and bars across the UK by creating virtual ghostly visions. Users can view and capture transparent spectral images through their device camera, enhancing the venue experience.
Industry: Entertainment / Augmented Reality
Core Objective: Develop an interactive AR app that overlays ghostly visions onto real-world locations to engage users and increase foot traffic in pubs and bars.
The app allows users to interact with 6–7 specters/ghosts, with provisions to expand for additional locations, including Airbnb units.
The Challenge
Key challenges included:
- Creating realistic AR ghost visuals tethered to specific locations within bars and pubs
- Designing an expandable system for future locations
- Maintaining a smooth and responsive experience on smart devices
- Ensuring user engagement while keeping the interface intuitive and visually appealing
The solution required combining AR, animation, and cloud services to deliver immersive entertainment.
The Solution: Augmented Reality Ghost App
The Spectroscope app overlays virtual specters onto live camera feeds of users’ devices.
Key functionalities include:
- 6–7 spectral visions or ghosts tied to specific bar locations
- Expandable to additional venues, including Airbnb units
- AR animations designed for user engagement and entertainment
- Interactive camera experience allowing users to capture and explore ghosts
- Eye-catching and intuitive interface to enhance excitement
User Experience Enhancements
The app prioritizes fun and engagement.
Key improvements include:
- Realistic ghost animations using 3D Studio Max
- Smooth augmented reality interaction powered by Unity
- Intuitive navigation and visual effects for capturing specters
- Cloud support via Firebase for seamless data management
These features ensure users remain engaged and entertained during their visit.
Workflow Transformation
Before:
Standard pub and bar visits → Limited user engagement → Short stay duration
After:
AR ghost exploration → Interactive experience → Increased user engagement and longer stays
Business Impact
Spectroscope enhances visitor experience and engagement in pubs and bars.
Key outcomes included:
🔹 Provides a unique and entertaining AR feature for users
🔹 Encourages longer visits and repeat engagement
🔹 Eye-catching interface attracts curiosity and interaction
🔹 Scalable system for expansion to additional venues
The app successfully combines entertainment and technology to create a memorable venue experience.
Conclusion
Spectroscope leverages augmented reality to deliver interactive ghostly experiences, engaging users and enhancing visits to pubs and bars.
By integrating AR, 3D animation, and cloud services, the platform provides an exciting, scalable, and visually appealing entertainment solution.
