Landmark-based navigation systems have proven benefits relative to traditional turn-by-turn systems that use street names and distances. However, one obstacle to the implementation of landmark-based navigation systems is the complex challenge of selecting salient local landmarks at each decision point for each user. In this paper, we present Pharos, a novel system that extends turn-by-turn navigation instructions using a single global landmark (e.g. the Eiffel Tower, the Burj Khalifa, municipal TV towers) rather than multiple, hard-to-select local landmarks. We first show that our approach is feasible in a large number of cities around the world through the use of computer vision to select global landmarks. We then present the results of a study demonstrating that by including global landmarks in navigation instructions, users navigate more confidently and build a more accurate mental map of the navigated area than using turn-by-turn instructions.
Vi-Bros is a new interface that simultaneously utilizes two mobile devices, a smartphone and a smartwatch, to provide users with intuitive guidance during indoor navigation. We evaluate the validity of the dual device interaction with the tactile feedback and provide insights for user experience via two experiments; one from a controlled environment and the other from the field. We present the core insights and potential design space for developing multi-device interaction. In this paper we describe a prototype spatial audio user interface for a Global Positioning System (GPS). The interface is designed to allow mobile users to carry out location tasks while their eyes, hands or attention are otherwise engaged. Audio user interfaces for GPS have typically been designed to meet the needs of visually impaired users, and generally, though not exclusively, employ speech-audio. In contrast, our prototype system uses a simple form of non-speech, spatial audio. This paper analyses various candidate audio mappings for location and distance information. A variety of tasks, design considerations, design trade-offs and opportunities are considered. The findings from pilot empirical testing are reported. Finally, opportunities for improvements to the system and for future evaluation are explored.  In this article we describe a novel approach to pedestrian navigation using bearing-based haptic feedback. People are guided in the general direction of their destination via vibration, but additional exploratory navigation is stimulated by varying feedback based on the potential for taking alternative routes. We describe two mobile prototypes that were created to examine the possible benefits of the approach. The successful use of this exploratory navigation method is demonstrated in a realistic field trial, and we discuss the results and interesting participant behaviours that were recorded.