AR city planning is a threat to local communities and their identity

As a technology enthusiast, I was initially intrigued by Autodesk’s latest innovation: augmented reality city planning. However, after giving it more thought, I have become increasingly opposed to this technology and the impact it could have on our cities. The idea of using augmented reality to design and control the look and function of our cities may seem like a convenient solution, but the reality is much more complex and potentially concerning.

First and foremost, the implementation of augmented reality city planning raises serious ethical questions. As cities become increasingly designed and controlled by corporations, the role of elected officials and local communities in decision-making processes is diminished. This could lead to a lack of accountability and a disregard for the needs and wants of local residents. Urban planning expert and professor, Emily Talen, warns, “The use of technology in city planning can lead to the displacement of vulnerable populations and a disregard for the social, cultural, and historical context of a place.” This not only undermines the democratic process but also it also undermines the rights of local residents and communities.

Moreover, the use of augmented reality in city planning has the potential to perpetuate socio-economic inequality. As cities become more…