Netlify Capsules

Product Introduction

1. Definition: Netlify Capsules is a location-based, web-based augmented reality (AR) experience enabling developers to deploy digital time capsules tied to their Netlify projects. These capsules orbit Earth virtually and are discoverable via geolocated AR technology.
2. Core Value Proposition: It celebrates Netlify’s 10-million-strong developer community by transforming static project deployments into interactive, shareable artifacts visible in real-world skies, fostering global connection and creative expression.

Main Features

1. Capsule Deployment: Users link a Netlify project, embed personal content (photos, audio, or text notes), and deploy capsules using Netlify’s serverless architecture. Capsules are stored on decentralized edge networks for low-latency global access.
2. Web-Based AR Discovery: Leveraging WebXR and device geolocation APIs, users scan the sky via mobile browsers to view nearby capsules. AR rendering adjusts for real-time positioning, altitude, and orientation without native app installations.
3. Geospatial Mapping: Capsules are plotted on a 3D orbital model using Three.js and Mapbox GL, synced to physical coordinates. Discovery radius is dynamically calculated based on user location, IP geolocation, and proximity algorithms.

Problems Solved

1. Pain Point: Developers lack immersive, non-technical avenues to showcase projects and engage communities beyond code repositories or social media.
2. Target Audience: Frontend developers using Netlify for JAMstack projects; digital artists seeking novel self-expression; community managers driving brand loyalty.
3. Use Cases:
   • Portfolio Enhancement: Attach capsules to live projects for interactive "behind-the-scenes" context.
   • Event Campaigns: Deploy limited-edition capsules during hackathons to drive participation.
   • Geolocated Storytelling: Share project journeys tied to physical locations (e.g., "This app was built in Tokyo").

Unique Advantages

1. Differentiation: Unlike static project galleries (GitHub Pages) or closed AR platforms (Pokémon GO), Capsules combines open web standards, serverless deployment, and no-code customization in one frictionless workflow.
2. Key Innovation: Patented "orbital persistence" algorithm ensures capsules remain discoverable for years via timestamped geolocation data, creating a permanent, evolving developer legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How does Netlify Capsules use AR without an app?
   It employs WebXR—a browser standard for AR/VR—requiring only a compatible mobile device (iOS Safari or Android Chrome). No app store downloads or logins are needed.
2. Can I edit or delete my deployed capsule?
   Capsules are immutable post-deployment to preserve integrity, but creators can "retire" them via Netlify dashboard, making them non-discoverable while retaining archival data.
3. What happens if no capsules are near my location?
   The system defaults to showcasing globally trending capsules, prioritized by creator engagement metrics (likes, shares) and recency.
4. Is my data private in Netlify Capsules?
   User-uploaded content is public by design, but personal metadata (email, location) follows Netlify’s GDPR-compliant privacy framework and is never shared without consent.
5. How are capsules moderated for inappropriate content?
   Automated filters (AI image/text scanning) and user-reporting tools flag violations. Netlify’s trust team reviews reports within 24 hours, removing non-compliant capsules.