IBM files patent for blockchain system to keep AR gamers in check

Another week, another blockchain-related IBM news story. In this case, it is a patent application that refers to a new method of preventing augmented reality (AR) gamers from travelling to inappropriate locations.

The system would use blockchain technology to set safe boundaries in the real world as AR gamers move around, storing a continuous stream of data on a distributed ledger.

The application reads: “One important aspect of a location-based augmented reality game is “trust” about real-world locations. Actors or users may maliciously profile a location for different purposes e.g. misleading players by falsifying the profile of a location where the ARC can be placed.

“The blockchain system securely tracks, stores, and maintains location-related transactions along with other location metadata.”

The application describes ‘undesirable’ locations as high risk and culturally sensitive spaces, as well as locations marked by property owners.

Objects marked as ‘undesirable’ could also be part of the system, protecting real-world items from being part of the game.

IBM has been a big believer in blockchain for some time, in September joining the HACERA Unbounded Registry of blockchain projects as a founding member.

“As a number of blockchain consortiums, networks and applications continue to grow we need the means to list them and make them known to the world, in order to unleash the power of blockchain,” said Jerry Cuomo, IBM’s VP of blockchain technologies.

The firm is also a partner of Data61, helping to create the Australian National Blockchain.