The TED AI Show
How Pokemon Go and augmented reality are transforming how we’ll navigate the world w/ Niantic's Brian McClendon
Jan 21, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Brian McClendon, co-founder of Keyhole and current SVP of Engineering at Niantic, shares insights on how augmented reality is reshaping navigation. He discusses the evolution of geospatial technologies and the unexpected role of Pokémon Go in mapping. The dialogue highlights advancements in crowd-sourced mapping, the future potential of immersive AR experiences, and the balance between innovation and user privacy. Listeners will appreciate the exciting possibilities that lie ahead in the intersection of digital and physical worlds.
01:09:24
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Quick takeaways
- Niantic utilizes the massive user base of games like Pokemon Go to create real-time, detailed maps through community participation.
- Advancements in technologies like Gaussian splatting enable users to capture and share photorealistic 3D environments directly from smartphones.
Deep dives
The Future of 3D Mapping
Niantic is revolutionizing how maps are created by leveraging the vast user base of games like Pokemon Go. Instead of traditional top-down mapping methods employing satellites and cars, they utilize data from millions of players to create detailed, real-time maps. This innovative approach not only enhances navigation but creates a dynamic understanding of the world, allowing for up-to-date spatial intelligence. By transforming players into contributors, Niantic showcases a community-oriented method that turns mapping into a collective experience, reshaping how we perceive and interact with geographic information.
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