Augmented reality (AR*) being introduced to Google Maps puts users firmly in the shoes of the firm’s Street View avatar, overlaying directions on the world around them.

The new feature will offer real-time navigation* using a smartphone’s camera to scan buildings and landmarks.

The updated function will direct users based on what they see in front of them, rather than by looking at the blue dot on a Google map.

The new AR street map feature was revealed in a demo video made by the Wall Street Journal.

The video shows the user holding up his phone while in Google Maps and the camera scanning what it sees in front of the phone.

Once the landmarks have been recognized by Google Maps and are locked through the GPS* system, information about those landmarks appears on the screen.

According to David Pierce who tried out the system, the real-time feature is not intended to be on at all times, as it drains battery*.

The feature will also be available through AR glasses in the future.(SD-Agencies)