30 September 2009
SURFnet makes eduroam hotspots visible with Layar
SURFnet facilitates finding eduroam hotspots in the Netherlands using the Augmented Reality application Layar.
People who have Layar installed on their mobile phone can scan their surroundings for the presence of eduroam wireless internet. The eduroam layer is currently available on Android; it is easy to find in Layar once Layar is installed from the
Android market. As soon as Layar becomes available on other platforms such as iPhone, the eduroam layer will be available on these platforms as well.
The eduroam hotspots are situated all over the Netherlands, especially on university campuses. Students and staff can log onto eduroam across the country using their personal account for their own educational institution. Layar makes it easy to trace the precise locations. Jens de Smit, Young Talent at SURFnet and responsible for the development of the eduroam layer: ‘At SURFnet we are continually striving to find opportunities to improve our services. The application of innovative software fits in perfectly with my work as a Young Talent.’
Layar is an Augmented Reality application for the mobile phone that presents information on locations and services in the area overlaid on the phone’s camera function, such as the location of the nearest letterbox or cash teller. It can also find information on the surrounding area, for instance on historic buildings.
The eduroam layer was developed within the framework of the SURFnet/Kennisnet Innovation programme, which promotes the development and application of wireless educational applications and networks in the entire educational vertical. It aims to provide incentives for the development and adoption of mobile applications in education.