WebAR menu for inflight meals

Creating an AR food menu is potentially one of the first examples of the value that AR can provide for businesses, especially airlines. But, is there a way to deliver an AR experience without needing an app? This is what our client, the multinational airline AirAsia, had in mind when they approached Rubius Vostok. They wanted people to be able to experience AR without an app. 

As a way to allow customers to preview dishes before boarding the plane, the team wanted to create an interactive AR menu that customers could view and then make their purchase onboard. WebAR was a suitable platform for this. 

WebAR development

While WebAR began development some time ago, its features were limited by the available technology. However, now that connection speeds have improved significantly and 5G is available in certain regions, as well as various other technological developments, the medium has advanced significantly further. 

We captured each and every detail of the dish, no matter the size. We took between 200 and 300 images of each dish, which was carefully prepared by special food artists. Following the initial stage of post processing, the total 3D model was well over 100MB, which could not be used with WebAR. After four iterations, we were able to create a 3D model capable of loading within 3-5 seconds on an average mobile connection in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Manila.

Augemented reality app functionality

• A WebAR experience that works on any mobile device, no app required.
• AR based food visualization
• Fast-loading 3D models

Customer

The initial test launch is planned to take place at Kota Kinabalu Airport, with further plans to expand it to 120 airports where AirAsia has a presence if the launch is successful.

AirAsia was very positive in their feedback and also suggested extra features, e.g., highlighting ingredients and providing allergen information, for future versions.