Mercedes-Benz uses augmented reality to keep first responders safe

Rescue Assist is an app Mercedes-Benz created for first responders. It provides a wealth of data on all its cars, including commercial brands, so first responders know the best way to enter a vehicle. Now, it's added augmented reality, giving folks a better idea of what parts are where underneath all that sheet metal.

Even better, the app doesn't need to be used with an internet connection. All new Mercedes, Smart and Fuso vehicles come with a QR code that, once scanned, opens the app's relevant data page. Owners of vehicles as old as the 1990 model year can have a dealership affix a similar QR code to their cars, so you don't need to spend tons of money to be part of this.

The Rescue Assist app is available for both iOS and Android devices, and it's free. It covers Mercedes-Benzes as old as the 1990 model year, Smarts as old as 1998 and Mercedes-Benz vans as old as 1996.