Oregon Scientific SmartGlobe Explorer AR
© 2017 Oregon Scientific
Tap the surface of this globe with a fat space shuttle shaped stylus, to explore geography facts. You can also download the associated AR (Augmented Reality) app and watch as landmarks pop up on your screen, along with facts. The stylus is loaded with geography and history facts, presented according to the age you select on the globe's dashboard.The app (on both iTunes or Android) turns your phone or tablet into a portal, letting you explore animals, landmarks, dinosaurs and more that pop up on your screen as you reveal the globe in your camera viewfinder. You can tap on the images to learn more. According to the publisher there are 20,000 facts covering general history, 220 national anthems, population facts and news. Six language options: English (US), English (UK), Spanish, Italian, Russian and French. Need to know: The sound comes out of the stylus, which also contains controls for volume, a USB port and a headphone jack. Because there is no tether, the globe won't work (other than serving as a globe) if the stylus is misplaced. The globe also opens up to reveal interactive photos of the solar system and the Earth's inner layers. Everything you see is explained verbally in your choice of six languages.
$130, Smart Toy
Teaches: geography, history, geology (Earth science), astronomy, science
CTR Rating: 80%