Next-generation location-based experiences (LBEs) will involve multiple participants in mixed realities taking place in the real world, evolving according to a non-linear interactive scenario, and involving multiple users collaborating or competing. They will take multiple forms ranging from informative, educational and entertaining in multiple domains such as cultural heritage, tourism, transport, education, lifestyle etc. They are set to be the next big thing in IT as indicated by the millions of dollars invested by the likes of Google, Amazon, Facebook and Apple in the development of such experiences (e.g. Ingress) or the acquisition of start-ups (e.g. Magic Leap). Some roadblocks however slow down their advent. The complexity and cost of their development, requires a combination of high expertise in multiple domains (e.g. software development, networking, geo-positioning, simulation, user interfaces). MAGELLAN redefines LBEs on mobile devices worldwide, by leveraging a codeless platform for the rapid and cost-effective creation and promotion of LBEs/games, harnessing a global ecosystem of authors. By removing inherent barriers, MAGELLAN aims at tapping at the unlocked value residing within the creativity of people and organizations alike. MAGELLAN is a 24-month activity, leading to a market-ready product and a new business entity to drive the adoption and scale-up of the platform and the value propositions stemming from that. Based on the excellent outputs of the MAGELLAN FP7 Project and their long-standing partnership, the two main industrial applicants (EXUS, DXT) will drive the platform towards commercialization. A partnership has been established with LOBA and INCONITO, two esteemed marketing and business strategy companies, to complement the effort with the necessary skills that will help drive adoption. The funding requested will support the first steps towards commercialization until the business becomes self-sustainable (even at marginal profits).

Many challenges arise in the immediate aftermath of a natural or man-made disaster. First responders must deal with pressing and dramatic challenges in a chaotic, dynamic, and dangerous environment while locating and rescuing victims and neutralising threats. They must make urgent decisions, but the zone can be large, complex, hostile, with many areas unsafe to explore. The lack of reliable information and the deep uncertainty present serious obstacles to a quick and effective response. INTREPID aims to create a unique platform, seamlessly integrating Intelligence Amplification and eXtended Reality concepts, with unprecedented Smart Cybernetic Assistants and innovative deep indoor Networking and Positioning capabilities, to improve and accelerate the exploration and assessment of disaster zones. The project will validate its effectiveness, in iterative and complementary pilots, to support the rescue operations in areas that are complex or dangerous to explore. Always first on scene, first responders will be able to immediately start operations without having to wait for specialized teams or for the zone to be fully secured. When these teams arrive, first responders have already used INTREPID to provide them with reliable information and effective assistance. The result is an immediate and targeted response that will allow faster, more effective and safer operations. The consortium consists of world-class research centres and SMEs, coordinated by an industrial with a leading position in the security market. It will follow a user-centric methodology involving many first responders, and an international Advisory Board and Open User Group ensuring diversity. Social, ethical and legal constraints will be carefully considered during the project’s lifetime. The project will design and implement a training curriculum and an innovative evaluation framework along with an ambitious communication and dissemination plan, preparing the ground for successful exploitation.