OBI Property launches mobile app

Manchester-based real estate business OBI Property has launched an iPhone and iPad app which includes an augmented reality function to allow occupiers to visualise fit-out of their new office space.

Richard Lace, who leads OBI's offices department, said: "The idea for the OBI app came out of discussions with our clients but also from us listening to what occupiers looking for offices would find useful. The purpose of the app is simple – to make life easier for occupiers when searching for a new office.

"Using augmented reality is a great way of helping potential occupiers visualise how their office can look and, importantly, how their people can interact with the space – it's much more effective than a 2D floor plan or a CGI – we are bringing an empty floor space to life.

"Since OBI Property started in 2010, we've always looked to innovate and be future-focused. We are passionate about how we market and position our clients' assets and have already reaped the rewards from embracing technology in launching OBI TV."

Also included in the OBI Property app is the company's show-reel movie, images, floor plans and video content about properties the firm is marketing in Manchester city centre including: Vantage Point, One New York Street, Sevendale House and Clarence House.

OBI Property worked with Manchester based marketing agency 90 Degrees to design and develop the app, which is only available for iPhone and iPad at present.

Kate Gately, marketing manager at OBI Property, said: "The world is changing at pace and the real estate sector cannot stand still. We're all used to using mobile apps in our day to day lives, so it makes sense to apply the same technology to our property marketing. Equally we are seeing an upturn of tech-savvy enterprises across various sectors searching for office space and these businesses are embracing new technology and are looking to innovate. This form of property marketing is the future and the feedback to date has been really positive."

To download, search for OBI Property in the app store.