What is augmented reality?
Augmented reality allows you to see the natural environment with a digital overlay using your device’s camera. You will be able to “see” artists talking about their work, go on virtual tours, and discover hidden animations.
What will I see?
The experiences vary from animations to photos. Most of the experiences include a short (1–2 minute) video presented by artists, staff, or experts that share information the artwork or area you are in. You may need to move your camera around throughout the experience.
You can take photos during the experience. Either use your phone’s screen capture feature or take a photo within the app using the camera icon.
Where can I find the AR experiences?
Look for QR codes on signs placed near artworks at Canal Convergence and and around Old Town Scottsdale. Hover your phone’s camera over the code to start the experience.
You can also access certain AR experiences anywhere. Open the Hoverlay app and scan the QR code or the anchor symbol to start the experience.
What is the map on the +ScottsdalePublicArt channel?
When you open the Hoverlay app and go into the +ScottsdalePublicArt channel, you will see a map of Scottsdale with multiple circles. The circles on the map represent each AR experience. When there is a green dot at the edge of the circle, you can activate that experience. Press on the circle you would like to activate. Look for the signs at the location of the artwork to direct you to the circle you will need for the experience.
What if there is a red dot on the circle in the map?
You are not physically close enough to the artwork experience to activate the AR; move closer to the artwork. The experience may also be temporarily unavailable.
What will I see, hear, or do while using AR?
- Check back closer to the event for information about this year’s augmented reality offerings.
- In the meantime, you can check out these augmented reality experiences associated with public artworks throughout Scottsdale.
What kind of device do I need?
You will need a newer phone connected to Wi-Fi or a service provider and with updated software (i.e., iOS 14 or later, Android 13.0 or later). You can also check if your mobile device is ARCore compatible.
How do I install the app?
First, you need an AR-capable device (see above).
Next, download the Hoverlay app OR open your device’s camera and hover over the QR code below. You can also open your device’s browser, e.g., Chrome, Safari, etc. and go to https://hoverlay.io/ScottsdalePublicArt to download the app directly.
What do the symbols on my Hoverlay app screen mean?
- Return to the map
- Refresh button
- Search option for Hoverlay AR channels
- Camera/video button- Tap for a photo and press and hold for a video
- Help/Information
Why can’t I hear anything?
Make sure your phone is turned off from silent mode and turn up the volume. The AR is best experienced using headphones.
How can I stop the video?
Touch the screen and hit the pause button. Click the refresh arrow at the top to start over or refresh new content.
How can I take a photo of the experience?
You can capture photos by using the screenshot feature on your phone or clicking on the camera icon in the app.
Troubleshooting
Why can’t I see or hear anything?
Did you hover your phone’s camera over the QR code, and open in Hoverlay?
Yes.
Did your camera open Hoverlay?
Yes.
Did you move your camera around? Sometimes the content is behind you.
Yes.
Did you refresh the app (click on the circle arrow in the top right corner)?
Yes.
Try closing the app (quit it entirely) and restart by hovering your phone’s camera over the QR code again.