ROMISING AVENUES OF USING AUGMENTED REALITY IN CARTOGRAPHY
Augmented reality (AR) is the integration of digital information with the user’s environment in real time. AR software use in many different ways and for the needs of cartography too. This technology may be useful for the development of navigational mobile applications and actions with static (paper) maps. There are two main operating modalities for implementation of augmented reality in applications: by markers and by the positioning of customer and surrounding objects (by azimuths determination between customer’s device and real objects). The first way is applied for static maps when another way is applied for navigational mobile applications. Augmented reality provides at least six opportunities, which create better options for working with design and content of maps for cartographers. This technology also provides the new experience in the work on maps for customers. The advantages of using augmented reality in cartography are the partial equation of static maps to geographical information systems, adaptability of cartographic images to the needs of users, improving the quality of design and content possibilities of maps and making actions with maps more attractive for customers. However, this technology is not without disadvantages, which connected with the development of AR-applications and requirements to smartphones. In addition, this article reveals aspects of the creation of augmented maps in cartographic companies.