Universal Orlando is lifting the curtain a little further on its highly anticipated Harry Potter attraction with a promotion blending new media with old.
On Thursday, anyone with a webam and a current copy of USA Today will be able to go online and experience an "augmented reality" map of the future "Wizarding World of Harry Potter" park.
The technology blends computer images and real-life environments to provide a tour of the 20-acre park from all angles. For example, holding the map closer to the Webcam activates a close-up view of the magical town of Hogsmeade and the Hogwarts Express. Banners on the map flap in the breeze if the microphone is blown into.
Universal has been building anticipation for the scheduled spring opening of "Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey" for months by slowly piecing out details.
Designers have worked closely with Potter author J.K. Rowling to make the site as authentic as possible.
AP