There are four different “modes,” or ways to interact, with the digital teaching aids and simulations in Merge EDU apps.
3D Mode allows you to interact with virtual objects and simulations on the device's screen, without needing to access the device's camera or use a Merge Cube.
Cube Mode allows you to hold and interact with 3D objects in the palm of your hand using the Merge Cube, which adds a sense of touch to the learning experience.
World Mode allows users to place multiple objects side-by-side in the real world, to compare and explore. With world mode, you can physically walk around to inspect the simulation or digital object you placed in the world.
And with Headset Mode, your smartphone's screen becomes a portal where virtual objects and environments appear vivid and lifelike against the backdrop of your actual surroundings. This allows for an engaging and believable XR experience, as users can freely move around and explore virtual objects and simulations in their environment.
In this article, you will learn how to use:
- 3D Mode
- Cube Mode
- World Mode
- Headset Mode
3D Mode
When you first open a simulation or 3D object in one of the Merge apps, the app will default to 3D Mode. 3D mode is accessible to all devices capable of downloading the Merge apps.
In 3D Mode, you do not need a Merge Cube and can view objects and interact with simulations simply by touching the screen of your device. Tap and drag to rotate an object around, or use a pinching gesture to zoom in and out.
Swapping between Modes
When you’re ready to swap to a different mode, you can simply tap "Cube" or "World" at the top of the screen.
Cube Mode
Cube Mode is the classic way of using Merge EDU apps, and adds a sense of touch to the AR experience. Once in cube mode, the device will ask you to scan your Merge Cube. This feature uses your device's camera to ‘see’ the cube and overlay a virtual image over it - allowing you to hold a hologram in the palm of your hand!
If you don’t have a Merge Cube, tap here to learn how you can get one.
World Mode
You can also use Merge EDU apps in World Mode. When in world mode, your device will ask you to scan a surface. This can be a table or desk, the floor, or even outside! Once the surface is scanned, a white circle will appear, allowing you to “place” the object or simulation down on that surface. Place multiple objects side-by-side to compare and contrast, or walk around life-size virtual objects right in your classroom!
For more information about using the place in the world tool, check out this help article.
Headset Mode
Headset mode is only available for small mobile devices, like smartphones and iPod touches, that can fit into a Merge Headset. Note - you must have a Merge Headset for Headset Mode.
The Merge AR/VR Headset is compatible with all 3 Merge EDU apps - Merge HoloGlobe, Merge Object Viewer, and Merge Explorer. Follow these steps to use "Headset Mode" in any the apps:
- Download Merge HoloGlobe, Merge Object Viewer, or Merge Explorer on to a smarphone or iPod touch: Downloading Merge EDU apps
- Launch the app on your device and select one of the Activities
- Select the "Headset" icon from the top right side of the home screen. Alternately, you can select "Headset" from the interaction screen after starting an activity.
- Slot your device into the front of the headset, making sure the camera is facing the pop-out window
- Hold your Merge Cube in your hand, and gaze at the various options. To select, tap the input button at the top of the headset. You can also place objects in the world around you and interact!
Now that you’ve learned about the different modes available, you can get started using Merge EDU apps to teach students about science and STEM. Check out the following articles for a great place to start: