Google Maps thinks large cartoon arrows can help users navigate better.

Recently, Google began letting some users test a new augmented-reality feature in its mobile app that shows graphics — such as highlighted arrows and street names floating in midair — over a live view from their camera on their smartphone screens. It is meant to help them navigate city streets.

Google’s Rachel Inman, who works on user-experience for the new feature, said the company hopes to make it simpler to go between the two-dimensional map on your phone and the three-dimensional world around you.

Google is testing new AR features for its Maps app. Google said that for now, the feature is only being offered to a small group of people who frequently use and contribute to Google Maps. The company isn’t saying when it will be generally available.

Culled From: CNNBusiness

The post GOOGLE TO IMPROVE MAPS APP USING VIRTUAL ARROWS appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

SoftBank Group shares rose nearly 18% in Tokyo on Thursday after the company announced it would buy back as much as 600 billion yen ($5.5 billion) of its own shares in the next year.

The stock surge is a nod to Son’s strategy of transforming SoftBank’s profile from a telecommunications operator into the world’s most powerful tech investor.

Son complained that his company’s closing share price that day was “too cheap” while presenting SoftBank’s earnings. He went on to explain why he believes the collection of tech and telecommunications assets he has assembled should command a higher valuation.

SoftBank has set up a nearly $100 billion Vision Fund, to which Saudi Arabia has contributed significantly. Vision Fund has focused on investing in dozens of tech startups and is always on the search for new investment opportunities. The rising value of its stakes in companies like Uber and WeWork helped grow SoftBank’s earnings the final quarter of 2018, the company said.

The post SOFTBANK CEO ANNOUNCES SHARE BUY BACK appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.