Source: Bird

Powered by Google, the new parking tool from LEVA-EU member Bird uses ARCore Geospatial API to geo-localize parked scooters

The new tool is a solution to a prominent challenge for micromobility implementation – cluttered sidewalks due to poorly parked vehicles. The system utilizes years of Google 3D scanning, augmented reality technology, and street view data to create the world’s first scalable, hyper-accurate Visual Parking System (VPS).

Upon parking, riders are prompted to quickly scan the surrounding area with their smartphone, followed by the vehicle’s QR code. The VPS then compares rider images against the vast Google database using stationary objects as reference points.

The process is near-instantaneous, giving centimeter-level results. Such precise data ensures scooters are left only in approved areas. Justin Balthrop, Chief Technology Officer at Bird shares, “The new ARCore Geospatial API from Google is an absolute game-changer for micromobility that allows us to offer cities a first-of-its-kind Visual Parking System that’s unmatched in terms of accuracy and scalability. With Bird VPS, we’re able to meet cities’ number one need, proper parking, in a way that’s never been possible before, and we’re able to do it at scale in cities around the world thanks to Google’s robust global data and technology.”

Bird VPS is already being piloted in, or will immediately be rolling out in, cities including New York City, San Francisco, San Diego, Madrid, Bordeaux, and Tel Aviv. Additional locations will be added in future months.