Phobys: An AR app to reduce fear of spiders
Phobys is an augmented reality (AR) app developed by MindGuide and the University of Basel to help people adjust to spider situations. The app uses exposure therapy, a scientifically proven approach to reduce fear. Phobys consists of 10 levels with different tasks of exposure and interaction with a realistic 3D AR spider model. The app starts with two free test levels and continues with a low-cost full version. The training starts easy and gradually increases in difficulty and intensity of the exposure. Each level starts with a surface scan of a table or the floor, followed by a tap on the display, which places the 3D AR spider model in the scanned area. You can stop the training at any time by closing the app, and the progress will not be saved. Phobys is suitable for those who suffer from a mild, clinically insignificant fear of spiders and who are at least 16 years of age.
