Gotta Catch ‘Em All – Pokémon GO and the Public

Pokémon GO, a newly released, beyond-popular digital pastime that has sent millions of Americans into the landscape in search of cartoon creatures that are only visible on their smartphones, poses many challenges for local governments. At this year’s MACo Summer Conference, you can learn more about Pokémon GO and the future of augmented reality games, as well as how state and local officials are handling the additional safety, law enforcement, and recreation needs caused by the influx of players.

Here are more details:

Title: Gotta Catch ‘Em All – Pokémon GO and the Public

Description: Pokémon GO, the augmented reality smartphone application, has been downloaded by millions of players. Using technologies such as GPS and cameras, players navigate real, physical spaces and overlay their camera-view with digital images – characters from the game appear as if they’re in the player’s real-life setting. In the quest to “catch ’em all,” some players have gotten a lot of exercise, explored new parts of their communities, and made new friends. Others have injured themselves while walking distracted, played in inappropriate places, and been targeted by criminals. The popularity of this game – and the anticipation of more like it – present both positive and negative challenges for local governments. In this session, learn more about Pokémon GO and the future of augmented reality games, as well as how state and local officials are handling the additional safety, law enforcement, and recreation needs caused by the influx of players.

Speakers to be announced soon.

Moderator: The Honorable Allan Kittleman

Date/Time: Friday, August 19, 2016; 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

The MACo summer conference will be held August 17-20, 2016 at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City Maryland. This year the conference’s theme is “Cyber Solutions: Counties in the Digital Age.”

Learn more about MACo’s Summer Conference: