Ipswich Borough Council in the UK is set to install six sets of ‘immersive binoculars’ at heritage locations throughout the town, exploring the town’s history through augmented and virtual reality scenes.
Supported by AI technology, the installation will form part of a ‘Time Travel Series’ developed with local heritage companies and technology company, Zubr. The installation is claimed to be the first town in the UK to make the technology freely available to members of the public. The initiative forms part of a £2.3 million Digital Ipswich programme, funded by the UK government’s towns fund.
The binoculars will be fully weatherproof, with two eyepieces to maximise inclusivity. One eyepiece is installed at adult height, while another, lower eyepiece is installed for children, shorter individuals and wheelchair users. The binoculars will operate 24/7 without an app, smartphone or any other third-party technology, installed throughout the town of Ipswich to encourage residents and visitors to explore the locations in both the present and the past.
Neil MacDonald, councillor and leader of the council, Ipswich Borough Council, commented: “This is placemaking at its most imaginative. It’s a landmark project that’s set to establish Ipswich as a leader in the realm of digital innovation, heritage and engagement.
“Whether you’re nine or ninety, tech-savvy or not, this experience is for you. We’re proud that Ipswich will be the first town in the country to freely offer this inclusive, dynamic attraction - and it’s just the beginning of our commitment to innovation that benefits everyone.”
Photo credit: A depiction of Ipswich in the 1890s, alongside the immersive binoculars. - Zubr.