Devices running the Android operating system, built in a tablet form factor, and equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS) capabilities allow for location tracking and navigation. These devices utilize satellite signals to determine their precise geographic position on Earth.
The inclusion of a GPS receiver in a tablet broadens its utility beyond typical media consumption and productivity tasks. It enables location-based services, such as mapping applications, turn-by-turn navigation, and geotagging of photographs. Historically, integrated GPS was a feature primarily found in smartphones, but its adoption in tablets has expanded the potential applications for these larger-screen devices, particularly in fields like logistics, field service, and outdoor recreation.
The subsequent sections will delve into the various use cases, considerations for selecting a suitable device, and the technological aspects that underpin location services on Android-based tablets.
1. Navigation Accuracy
The effectiveness of an Android tablet equipped with GPS is fundamentally linked to its navigation accuracy. Precise location determination is the bedrock upon which all location-based services and applications function. Inaccurate GPS readings can lead to misdirection in navigation apps, rendering them unreliable. This inaccuracy stems from various sources, including atmospheric interference, satellite geometry, and signal reflection off buildings or terrain. The quality of the GPS receiver within the tablet directly impacts its ability to mitigate these factors. For example, a tablet used in field surveying requires a high degree of accuracy to ensure data collected is geolocated correctly. Similarly, in emergency response scenarios, inaccurate navigation could delay assistance and have severe consequences.
Navigation accuracy is often enhanced through Assisted GPS (A-GPS), which leverages cellular or Wi-Fi data to improve satellite acquisition and provide faster, more precise location fixes. However, reliance on A-GPS introduces dependencies on network availability. Some Android tablets incorporate additional sensors like gyroscopes and accelerometers to provide inertial navigation data, supplementing GPS signals in areas with poor satellite visibility, such as urban canyons or dense forests. These sensors can estimate movement and direction even when GPS signals are weak, contributing to more consistent navigation performance. Consider a delivery driver navigating through a city; the combination of GPS, A-GPS, and inertial sensors provides a more reliable route than relying solely on satellite data.
Ultimately, navigation accuracy is a critical determinant of the usability and value of an Android tablet with GPS. While technological advancements continue to improve precision, challenges remain in maintaining consistent accuracy across diverse environments. Understanding the limitations of GPS technology and the factors that influence accuracy is essential for selecting an appropriate tablet for specific location-dependent tasks and for interpreting location data effectively. Further improvements are focused on multi-GNSS support (incorporating other satellite systems like GLONASS and Galileo) and advanced filtering algorithms to enhance accuracy and reliability.
2. Offline Mapping
Offline mapping constitutes a critical component of the utility offered by Android tablets equipped with GPS, particularly in scenarios where consistent network connectivity is not assured. The ability to download and store map data directly on the device mitigates reliance on cellular or Wi-Fi networks for map rendering and route calculation. This functionality proves essential for users operating in remote areas, regions with unreliable internet infrastructure, or locations where data roaming charges are prohibitive. Without offline mapping, the GPS capabilities of the tablet are severely limited, restricting its usability to areas with active network access. For instance, a field researcher conducting studies in a national park benefits significantly from offline maps, as the remote location often lacks reliable cellular service. Similarly, international travelers can utilize offline maps to navigate without incurring substantial data roaming costs.
The implementation of offline mapping involves downloading specific geographic regions for subsequent use. Mapping applications, such as Google Maps and specialized navigation software, typically provide options for selecting areas and storing them locally. The storage requirements for offline maps vary depending on the geographic extent and level of detail included, necessitating consideration of the tablet’s internal storage capacity or the availability of external storage options. The accuracy and comprehensiveness of offline maps are also critical factors. Outdated or incomplete map data can lead to navigational errors, undermining the purpose of having offline access. Therefore, regular updates of offline maps are recommended to ensure data currency and reliability. For example, construction workers relying on tablet-based navigation in areas with limited connectivity need updated offline maps to avoid incorrect routing due to recent road changes.
In summary, offline mapping significantly enhances the practicality and versatility of Android tablets with GPS by enabling navigation and location-based services independent of network availability. While storage capacity and map data currency present ongoing considerations, the advantages of offline mapping in remote or data-restricted environments are undeniable. The continued development of more efficient map data compression algorithms and increased storage capacity on tablets will further solidify the role of offline mapping as a core functionality for location-aware Android devices.
3. Geotagging Functionality
Geotagging functionality, intrinsically linked to Android tablets equipped with GPS, provides the capability to embed geographical coordinates within digital media, such as photographs and videos. This integration enhances data organization, retrieval, and contextual understanding.
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Data Organization and Retrieval
Geotagging simplifies the cataloging and searching of digital assets. By associating location data with each item, users can easily filter and locate media based on geographic proximity. For instance, a field biologist can quickly identify all photos taken within a specific research site, facilitating analysis and reporting. Without geotagging, manually sorting through images to identify location would be a time-consuming process.
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Contextual Enhancement
The inclusion of geographic coordinates adds contextual information to media, enabling viewers to understand the precise location where the data was captured. This is particularly useful in documentary filmmaking, journalism, and historical preservation. A video documenting a cultural site, for example, becomes more informative when the viewer can see the exact location and explore the surrounding environment using mapping applications.
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Geospatial Analysis and Mapping
Geotagged data can be imported into Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for further analysis and visualization. This allows for the creation of maps showing the distribution of media across a geographic area. Urban planners could use geotagged photographs to assess the condition of infrastructure in different neighborhoods. Environmental scientists could track the movement of wildlife by analyzing geotagged data collected from camera traps.
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Evidence and Verification
Geotagging provides a means of verifying the authenticity and provenance of digital media. In legal contexts, geotagged photographs can serve as evidence to support claims regarding the location of an event. Similarly, journalists can use geotagging to demonstrate that they were present at a specific location during a breaking news event. This capability adds credibility to visual documentation and helps combat misinformation.
The convergence of GPS technology and Android tablets elevates geotagging from a mere convenience to a powerful tool for various applications. From facilitating scientific research to enhancing journalistic integrity, geotagging enhances the value and utility of digital media, enabling a deeper understanding of the spatial context surrounding the captured data.
4. Location-Based Services
Location-Based Services (LBS) are intrinsically dependent on the presence of a functional GPS receiver within Android tablets. The capacity of these tablets to accurately determine their geographical position provides the fundamental input required for LBS to operate. Without integrated GPS, the tablet cannot provide the positional data necessary for applications such as navigation, local search, and location-aware gaming to function. The cause-and-effect relationship is direct: the tablet’s GPS capability enables the execution of LBS, and the absence of GPS renders these services unusable. For example, a delivery driver relies on an Android tablet with GPS to access navigation applications, receive dispatch assignments based on proximity, and provide real-time location updates to dispatchers. This is an example where the tablet’s ability to accurately determine its location directly affects the driver’s productivity and the efficiency of the delivery operation. Without a GPS-equipped tablet, the driver would be unable to utilize these location-dependent tools.
The prevalence of Android tablets equipped with GPS has fostered the proliferation of diverse LBS applications across various sectors. In the realm of logistics and transportation, these devices enable fleet management, route optimization, and real-time tracking of assets. Within the tourism industry, LBS-enabled tablets provide location-aware tourist guides, interactive maps, and personalized recommendations based on user proximity to points of interest. Moreover, emergency services leverage LBS to enhance response times, accurately locate individuals in distress, and coordinate rescue efforts. These examples underscore the practical applications of LBS powered by Android tablets with GPS, emphasizing the tangible benefits derived from the synergistic combination of hardware and software. Furthermore, location-based advertising relies on such devices to target users with relevant promotional content based on their geographical position, demonstrating the economic significance of this technology.
In conclusion, the integration of GPS capabilities into Android tablets serves as a cornerstone for the provision of Location-Based Services. This technology impacts numerous facets of modern life, ranging from personal navigation to commercial operations and emergency response. Despite the inherent benefits, challenges remain in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of GPS signals, particularly in urban environments and indoor settings. Future developments in positioning technologies, such as improved satellite constellations and sensor fusion techniques, promise to further enhance the capabilities of Android tablets with GPS and expand the scope of LBS applications. The ongoing evolution of LBS reflects the increasing demand for location-aware solutions and the critical role that GPS-equipped Android tablets play in fulfilling these demands.
5. Battery Consumption
Power consumption constitutes a critical consideration in the utilization of Android tablets equipped with GPS. The continuous operation of the GPS receiver to determine location imposes a significant drain on the device’s battery, impacting its operational lifespan and usability, especially during extended periods away from charging sources.
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Continuous GPS Operation
The continuous utilization of the GPS radio within an Android tablet necessitates a sustained power draw. The receiver constantly scans for satellite signals, decodes positioning data, and performs calculations to determine the device’s location. This activity consumes a measurable amount of energy, reducing the time the tablet can operate on a single charge. For example, a field technician using a GPS-enabled tablet for surveying may experience a significantly shorter battery life compared to using the tablet solely for data entry.
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Background Location Services
Many applications running on Android tablets request access to location data, even when not actively in use. These background location services, while providing benefits such as improved location accuracy and personalized recommendations, contribute to increased battery consumption. An example is a weather application periodically updating location to provide localized forecasts, even when the app is not open. This constant activity drains the battery more rapidly than if location services were restricted to active applications only.
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Screen-On Time During Navigation
Using an Android tablet with GPS for navigation typically involves extended periods of screen-on time to display maps and directions. The screen, being a significant power consumer, exacerbates the battery drain caused by GPS usage. A long road trip using the tablet for turn-by-turn navigation can deplete the battery within a few hours, necessitating the use of a car charger or external power source.
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Optimizing Battery Life
Android tablets offer various power-saving features designed to mitigate battery consumption, including the ability to restrict background app activity, reduce screen brightness, and limit the frequency of location updates. Users can adjust these settings to prioritize battery life over continuous location tracking. For instance, a hiker using a GPS-enabled tablet for backcountry navigation may choose to disable background location services and manually initiate location updates only when necessary, extending the battery life for several days.
In summary, the impact of GPS usage on the battery life of Android tablets is considerable. Optimizing settings, managing background processes, and using power-saving features can extend the tablet’s operational time, particularly when relying heavily on location-based services. Furthermore, the choice of tablet, considering its battery capacity and power efficiency, is a critical factor in ensuring extended usability when GPS functionality is essential.
6. Signal Strength
The performance of Android tablets equipped with GPS is intrinsically linked to the strength of the GPS signal received. Inadequate signal strength directly degrades the accuracy and reliability of location data obtained by the device. Weaker signals result in longer acquisition times, increased positional errors, and, in extreme cases, the inability to establish a GPS fix altogether. This correlation is particularly evident in environments with obstructions such as dense urban areas, indoor spaces, or heavily forested regions, where signal attenuation and multipath interference compromise GPS reception. The implications are far-reaching; for instance, a delivery driver relying on a tablet’s GPS for navigation in a city center experiences frequent signal loss and inaccurate routing, impacting efficiency and potentially leading to delivery delays. The inherent vulnerability of GPS to environmental factors underscores the critical role of signal strength in ensuring the effective utilization of GPS-enabled Android tablets.
The design and construction of the Android tablet itself play a significant role in determining its ability to receive and process GPS signals. Antenna quality, chipset sensitivity, and the presence of electromagnetic interference within the device can all affect signal strength. Tablets with superior antenna designs and more sensitive GPS chipsets demonstrate improved performance in challenging environments. For example, specialized ruggedized tablets designed for field operations often incorporate enhanced GPS antennas and shielding to mitigate signal degradation. Furthermore, the software algorithms employed by the tablet’s operating system to process GPS data can help to filter out noise and improve accuracy, even in areas with weak signals. This requires the integration of sensor data, and complex data processing techniques that can only partially compensate for an inherently weak signal.
In conclusion, GPS signal strength is a fundamental determinant of the functionality of Android tablets with integrated GPS capabilities. While technological advancements aim to improve signal reception and processing, environmental factors remain a significant challenge. A comprehensive understanding of the relationship between signal strength and tablet performance is crucial for selecting appropriate devices for specific use cases and for implementing strategies to mitigate signal degradation in challenging environments. Optimizing antenna design, chipset selection, and software algorithms contributes to improved GPS performance; however, the inherent limitations of GPS technology necessitate a pragmatic approach to location-based applications, recognizing the potential for inaccuracies in environments with compromised signal strength.
7. Assisted GPS (A-GPS)
Assisted GPS (A-GPS) represents a pivotal enhancement to the Global Positioning System (GPS) functionality integrated within Android tablets. Its relevance lies in augmenting the standard GPS process through the incorporation of supplementary data sources, leading to improved location acquisition speed and accuracy, particularly in environments with compromised satellite visibility.
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Accelerated Time to First Fix (TTFF)
A-GPS leverages cellular network data, including cell tower IDs and signal strength measurements, to provide the Android tablet with an approximate initial location. This pre-positioning information significantly reduces the time required for the GPS receiver to acquire and lock onto satellite signals. For example, in urban environments where buildings obstruct satellite visibility, a standard GPS receiver might take several minutes to establish a fix, while an A-GPS-enabled tablet can achieve the same result in a matter of seconds. This acceleration is crucial for time-sensitive applications such as emergency services or real-time navigation.
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Enhanced Accuracy in Challenging Environments
A-GPS assists the GPS receiver by providing aiding data, such as ephemeris information, which describes the precise orbits of GPS satellites. This information is typically downloaded over a cellular or Wi-Fi connection, supplementing the data received directly from the satellites. By reducing the computational burden on the GPS receiver and providing more accurate orbital data, A-GPS can improve positional accuracy, especially in areas with weak or obstructed satellite signals. Consider a hiker using an Android tablet for navigation in a dense forest; A-GPS can help to maintain a more reliable position fix compared to a standalone GPS, reducing the risk of getting lost.
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Reduced Power Consumption
While A-GPS requires the use of cellular or Wi-Fi data, it can indirectly reduce power consumption by shortening the time the GPS receiver needs to operate at full power. By quickly acquiring a position fix, the A-GPS-enabled tablet can enter a low-power standby mode more rapidly, conserving battery life. This is particularly beneficial for users who rely on GPS for extended periods, such as surveyors or field technicians. The reduction in power consumption translates to longer operating times between charges, enhancing the usability of the Android tablet in remote locations.
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Dependence on Network Connectivity
A-GPS relies on access to a cellular or Wi-Fi network to download aiding data. In areas without network coverage, the benefits of A-GPS are diminished, and the tablet reverts to using standard GPS, which may result in slower acquisition times and reduced accuracy. This dependence on network connectivity represents a limitation of A-GPS. However, many Android tablets equipped with GPS also support offline mapping and caching of A-GPS data, mitigating the impact of intermittent network availability. A logistics company operating in rural areas would need to consider the limitations of A-GPS where network connectivity is inconsistent.
In summary, A-GPS provides substantial enhancements to the GPS capabilities of Android tablets, leading to faster acquisition times, improved accuracy, and potentially reduced power consumption. Despite its dependence on network connectivity, A-GPS remains a critical component for location-based services on Android tablets, enhancing their overall functionality and usability across a range of applications and environments.
8. Sensor Integration
The integration of sensors beyond GPS capabilities significantly enhances the functionality and accuracy of location-based services on Android tablets. The synergistic interaction between GPS and other sensors mitigates the limitations inherent in satellite-based positioning alone, resulting in a more robust and reliable user experience.
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Accelerometer and Gyroscope Integration
Accelerometers measure linear acceleration, while gyroscopes measure angular velocity. Combining data from these sensors with GPS data allows for inertial navigation, providing positional estimates when GPS signals are weak or unavailable. For example, inside buildings or tunnels, where GPS signals are blocked, accelerometer and gyroscope data can approximate movement and direction, maintaining a continuous navigational experience. Without this integration, the tablet’s location accuracy would degrade significantly or be lost entirely in GPS-denied environments. A delivery service navigating inside a large warehouse complex would benefit from this combination of sensor data.
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Magnetometer for Compass Functionality
A magnetometer functions as a digital compass, providing directional information independently of GPS. By integrating magnetometer data, the Android tablet can accurately determine its orientation, enabling functionalities such as accurate map rotation and heading indication. This integration is particularly relevant in pedestrian navigation and augmented reality applications. A surveyor using the tablet to map terrain relies on accurate heading data to correctly orient measurements and map overlays. Without magnetometer integration, the tablet would rely solely on GPS for orientation, which is less accurate and subject to drift.
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Barometer for Altitude Determination
A barometer measures atmospheric pressure, allowing for altitude determination. Integrating barometer data with GPS data enhances the accuracy of vertical positioning, which is crucial for applications such as aviation and mapping terrain with significant elevation changes. An example is a pilot using an Android tablet as a backup navigation system; the barometer enhances the accuracy of altitude readings, improving situational awareness. This integration is particularly valuable in mountainous terrain where GPS altitude data can be less reliable due to satellite geometry.
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Ambient Light Sensor for Power Management
While not directly related to positioning, an ambient light sensor indirectly enhances GPS usability by optimizing power consumption. By automatically adjusting screen brightness based on ambient light levels, the tablet conserves battery life, prolonging the period for which GPS can be used. This feature is particularly important for outdoor use where GPS is often relied upon for extended periods. A field researcher collecting data outdoors would benefit from prolonged battery life resulting from the ambient light sensor automatically dimming the display in shaded areas, indirectly ensuring the continuous operation of GPS-dependent applications.
The synergistic combination of GPS with various sensors on Android tablets enhances the accuracy, reliability, and usability of location-based services. The integration of accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers, barometers, and ambient light sensors mitigates the limitations of GPS alone, creating a more robust and versatile platform for navigation, mapping, and location-aware applications. These integrated sensors collectively contribute to a more seamless and accurate user experience across diverse environments and use cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding Android tablets equipped with GPS, providing concise and informative answers to enhance understanding of their capabilities and limitations.
Question 1: What factors influence the accuracy of GPS on an Android tablet?
Several factors affect GPS accuracy, including satellite geometry, atmospheric conditions, signal obstructions (buildings, trees), and the quality of the tablet’s GPS receiver. Additionally, the utilization of Assisted GPS (A-GPS) and sensor fusion techniques can enhance precision.
Question 2: Is a cellular connection required for GPS to function on an Android tablet?
A cellular connection is not strictly required for GPS to operate. The tablet can acquire satellite signals independently. However, a cellular connection enables Assisted GPS (A-GPS), which accelerates the initial location fix and enhances accuracy by utilizing cell tower data. Furthermore, certain map applications may require a data connection for real-time traffic updates or search functionality.
Question 3: How does battery life impact the usability of an Android tablet with GPS?
Continuous GPS usage significantly impacts battery life due to the power consumption of the GPS receiver. Extended navigation or location-based services can deplete the battery rapidly. Optimizing settings, such as reducing screen brightness and limiting background location updates, can mitigate this effect.
Question 4: What are the advantages of having offline maps on an Android tablet with GPS?
Offline maps enable navigation and location-based services in areas without cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity. This is particularly advantageous for users in remote areas, international travelers seeking to avoid roaming charges, or situations where network infrastructure is unreliable.
Question 5: Can GPS functionality be used indoors on an Android tablet?
GPS signal strength is significantly reduced or completely blocked indoors, limiting its effectiveness. While some tablets utilize Wi-Fi positioning or sensor fusion to approximate location indoors, accuracy is typically lower than that achieved outdoors with a clear view of the satellites.
Question 6: What types of applications benefit most from the integration of GPS in an Android tablet?
Navigation, mapping, field service management, logistics, asset tracking, surveying, and location-based gaming are among the applications that benefit most from GPS integration. These applications leverage accurate location data to enhance productivity, improve efficiency, or provide location-aware experiences.
In summary, Android tablets equipped with GPS offer a versatile platform for location-based services, but understanding the influencing factors of accuracy, battery impact, and dependence with internet network can help optimize utilization.
The subsequent discussion will explore the selection criteria for choosing an Android tablet with GPS based on specific application requirements.
Optimizing the Use of Android Tablets with GPS
To ensure optimal performance and maximize the utility of an Android tablet equipped with GPS, the following tips are provided. These guidelines address key aspects of setup, usage, and maintenance to enhance accuracy, reliability, and battery efficiency.
Tip 1: Calibrate the GPS Receiver Regularly:
Periodic calibration ensures the accuracy of location data. Some Android tablets provide built-in calibration tools accessible through the settings menu. This process may involve moving the tablet in a figure-eight pattern to allow the sensors to establish a precise baseline. Failure to calibrate can result in positional inaccuracies, particularly in environments with limited satellite visibility.
Tip 2: Enable Assisted GPS (A-GPS) When Available:
Assisted GPS utilizes cellular network data to accelerate satellite acquisition and enhance accuracy. Activating A-GPS within the tablet’s location settings can significantly improve the time required to establish a GPS fix, especially in urban areas or indoors. Note that A-GPS requires an active data connection and may incur data charges.
Tip 3: Download Offline Maps for Uninterrupted Navigation:
Prior to venturing into areas with limited or no cellular connectivity, download offline maps for the intended region. This enables continued navigation and access to location-based information even without an active data connection. Ensure sufficient storage space is available on the tablet for the downloaded map data.
Tip 4: Manage Background Location Services Prudently:
Many applications request access to location data, even when not actively in use. Review the location permissions granted to each application and restrict background access to only those apps that genuinely require it. This reduces unnecessary battery drain and enhances privacy.
Tip 5: Optimize Power Consumption During GPS Usage:
Prolonged GPS usage can significantly deplete battery life. Reduce screen brightness, disable unnecessary background applications, and utilize power-saving modes to extend the tablet’s operational time. Consider carrying a portable power bank for extended periods of GPS reliance.
Tip 6: Ensure Clear Line of Sight to Satellites:
GPS accuracy relies on a clear, unobstructed view of the sky. Avoid using the tablet in enclosed spaces or areas with dense foliage, which can attenuate satellite signals. Reposition the tablet to minimize obstructions and maximize signal reception.
Tip 7: Update Tablet Software and GPS Firmware Regularly:
Software updates often include improvements to GPS performance and stability. Ensure the tablet’s operating system and GPS firmware are updated to the latest versions to benefit from bug fixes, enhanced accuracy, and optimized power management.
By adhering to these guidelines, users can optimize the performance of Android tablets equipped with GPS, ensuring accurate location data, reliable navigation, and extended battery life. Proper setup, diligent management, and awareness of environmental factors are crucial for maximizing the utility of these devices.
The following section will summarize the key considerations for selecting an Android tablet with GPS, based on intended use cases and specific requirements.
Conclusion
This exploration of Android tablets with GPS has illuminated the technology’s multifaceted applications, performance determinants, and operational considerations. The integration of GPS elevates these tablets beyond simple media consumption devices, enabling location-aware services across diverse sectors, including logistics, surveying, and emergency response. Key aspects impacting utility encompass navigation accuracy, offline mapping capabilities, battery consumption characteristics, and the influence of signal strength.
The continued advancement of positioning technologies, coupled with increasing processing power and sensor integration, promises to further enhance the capabilities of Android tablets with GPS. Understanding the nuances of GPS operation, optimizing device settings, and selecting appropriate hardware based on specific use-case requirements are crucial for realizing the full potential of this technology. As location-based services become increasingly integral to various facets of daily life and industrial operations, Android tablets with GPS will continue to play a significant role in bridging the gap between digital information and the physical world.
