DENVER, CO - UDR, Inc, a leading multifamily real estate investment trust (REIT), today announced the launch of its augmented reality (AR) apartment search applications for T-Mobile Google Android phones and iPhone 3G S phones. The launch highlights the Company's continued expansion of its mobile services platform that makes finding an apartment easier and more convenient.
AR technology utilizes the smartphone's built-in spatial awareness components including its GPS, accelerometer, and compass to superimpose digital information on top of what is viewed through the phone camera's viewfinder. UDR's AR applications utilize Layar, an augmented reality browser, which enables users to point their smartphone in any direction to locate and view available apartments that are within a 10 mile radius from their current location. Features provide users with the ability to:
View apartment pricing.
Show how many apartments are available for rent.
Display distance to apartment building with pinpoint accuracy.
Place a hold on your favorite apartment.
Locate nearby museums, restaurants, movie theaters, and more.
"We pride ourselves as the industry leader when it comes to embracing and adopting new mobile appliance technology," said Steve Taraborelli, vice president of sales and marketing, UDR. "Implementing AR search applications into our existing mobile services platform is another example of how UDR is working to make finding and renting an apartment easier for consumers."
The addition of the AR search applications increases UDR's ability to reach the estimated 63 million Americans who use their mobile devices to access the Internet. Both applications are currently available for free at the Google Android App Store and the Apple iPhone Store. The search application will also be compatible with Sprint's HTC Hero Google Android phones when they become available later this year. For a demonstration of how the application works, please visit: www.youtube.com/watch?v=0BQqH59oq1Q.
UDR is a leading multifamily real estate investment trust with a demonstrated performance history of delivering superior and dependable returns by successfully managing, buying, selling, developing and redeveloping attractive real estate properties in targeted U.S. markets. As of August 1, 2009, UDR owned 44,990 apartment homes and had 1,916 homes under development. For over 37 years, UDR has delivered long-term value to shareholders, the best standard of service to residents, and the highest quality experience for associates.
Source: UDR, Inc.