Geocaching HQ is currently (at time of publication of this cache) holding an experimental testing period for AR or Augmented Reality caches. At the close of the period, a decision may be made concerning the future of this type of cache. I would recommend you try one or more AR caches--there are over 500 available worldwide--and share your thoughts about this type with Geocaching HQ--they definitely are interested in your feedback. (See link at end of cache description.) By the way, if you have attended either of the last two Geowoodstocks, you may have experienced AR caches in the Lab caches that were available at the Geowoodstock site. This new round of testing is slightly different from those in that GCHQ is allowing the use of third-party AR apps, subject to some requirements.
This cache is a very simple AR cache, which merely reveals the coordinates of the final location in the AR experience. It requires you to (1) own a smartphone with GPS (either iOS or Android); (2) download and install the free HP Reveal app; and (3) create a free account within the app. Step-by-step instructions will follow. Once you have accomplished those steps, go to the posted coordinates and look for a Geocaching logo. Scan the logo as well as the item just left of the logo with the HP Reveal app, and you should be rewarded with the final coords, along with a hint for the final, which is a short walk or drive away.
- Install the free HP Reveal app, available in the Apple App Store or Google Play.
- In the app, create a new account (unless you have one already, of course).
- Make sure you are logged in under your new account on the app.
- Tap where it says "Discover Auras" and enter "AshevillesFirst", tap on it when it comes up, then when you see "jratzlaf's Public Auras", tap on it and tap "Follow".
- You can check to make sure you are successfully following me by tapping on the little person icon in the upper left of the main screen and then tapping the "Following" tab. If you tap on "jratzlaf's Public Auras", you should see an image entitled "AshevillesFirst" which shows what you are looking for.
- Once the follow is successful, go back to the main HP Reveal screen (which shows the "Discover Auras" search bar at the top) and hit the blue circle at the bottom to scan an aura.
Here are a few more notes for those interested:
- Big thanks to cacher talk2azs who created several AR caches in the Atlanta area, including the first one I ever did, and who was generous with help on getting me started on creating this one.
- AR caches can be much more involved than this one. It appears that they can rival Wherigos in complexity and interactivity, provided the creator has sufficient creativity and technical inclination.
- When you sign up for an account on the HP Reveal app, you are given the opportunity to create your first "aura" right there in the app. I tried it and it works, and it's kind of fun. However, I eventually confirmed that the auras created on the app cannot be transferred anywhere, nor can they be edited or shared; so if you intend to create an aura for an AR cache, it will need to be done in a browser on a PC.
- talk2azs has thoughtfully created a helpful document describing in detail how to go about creating auras with HP Reveal. You can find this document linked on one of his more ambitious AR caches: AR_"Smokey And The Bandit" Tribute Cache, GC7MPJF.
- In order to help Groundspeak with their future decisions on this type of cache hide, they are in need of your input. Groundspeak requests that you please fill out a survey after you have hunted this cache.
“This cache is part of an experiment that allows the use of Augmented Reality (AR) apps to find the cache. At the end of this experiment, Geocaching HQ will decide if this cache will be grandfathered or archived. Geocaching HQ reserves the right to archive this cache at any time if conditions change. If you have found this cache and would like to give feedback on your experience, please fill out this survey."