Angela Merkel launches augmented reality app as part of election campaign

Cutting edge ‘Merkel app’ launched to target smartphone users before 22 September vote

'Merkel app' in use on smartphone in Berlin

(REUTERS)

An augmented reality app that appears to make outdoor billboard posters speak directly to voters has been launched by Angela Merkel’s campaign team.

The state-of-the-art app recognises the German Chancellor through a camera when pointed at large campaign posters of her face. A video then plays with Merkel appearing as a pop-up talking head on the camera screen.

Wearing her trademark red suit, Merkel appears to speak out of the poster, saying: “Germany is doing well today but we cannot take this for granted. I want us to be successful in the future together.”

Campaign manager Herman Groehe said he hoped the app would help mobilise more voters to support Merkel in what he predicted would be a “tight race”.

Merkel, who is leader of the conservative party Christian Democratic Union, hopes to recreate her centre-right coalition with the pro-business Free Democrats.