Walmart Redesigns Electronics Aisles
Walmart plans to add new products and features to its consumer electronics area across its 3,500 stores, adding new signage and bringing out displays for new technologies. The goal is to create an “easy to find,” and fun, shopping experience for all customers.
There will be: new color-coded and branded signage in categories such as gaming, wireless and home office that organize assortment and simplify selection; a larger assortment in Blu-ray players and movies, including a dedicated hi-definition “sound and sight” area that brings Blu-ray product, and “the experience,” together; an expanded assortment in HDTV; an increase of 30% in its wireless product and redesign of its Wireless World area, focusing on cellular and smart phone products; a new display center for laptops allowing customers to touch and experience each unit and compare brands like HP, Dell, and Toshiba.
Sony Displays New Smile Shutter Technology
Sony is using this display to introduce its Smile Shutter Technology to Best Buy shoppers. The display features two Sony CyberShot cameras with the Smile Shutter feature, accessories, and a TV Monitor with looping video highlighting the features. There is also a CyberShot Camera embedded in the display which takes the photos of the customer and displays it on a smaller TV monitor.
The flash of the camera draws consumers to the display, and invites them to participate by smiling. The Smile Shutter technology kicks in, places a box around the consumer’s head, and a photo of the consumer is automatically taken and displayed on the TV monitor. This display was created for Sony by AMD Industries, a Cicero, IL-based p.o.p. display firm.
Moen Interactive Display Launches ioDIGITAL
Moen is bringing the benefits of technology to the bathroom with ioDIGITAL, which enables consumers to set and maintain water temperature and flow with electronic precision and is available for three applications: vertical spa, shower and Roman tub.
“ioDIGITAL is like having your own personal digital 'butler' that will set your vertical spa with the perfect temperature and flow; turn on your shower from across the room or while still in bed; or even top off your bath with hot water,” said Mark Knurek, senior product manager, Moen.
Up to four different presets can be easily programmed into memory within seconds, allowing every member of the family their own unique setting.
Moen has created an interactive merchandiser to inform consumers about the ioDIGITAL while helping to convey its dramatic ‘wow’ factor. The display’s interactive touchscreen and LED lighting draw consumer attention. A motion activated sensor changes the screen content as consumers approach to encourage interaction with the display.
Rosetta Stone Opens First Experience Retail Store In NJ
Rosetta Stone, a leading provider of technology-based language learning solutions, has opened its first retail outlet designed to provide a more complete experience of Rosetta Stone. Located at The Mall at Short Hills, in Short Hills, NJ, the new store will allow consumers to fully experience the award-winning Rosetta Stone Dynamic Immersion method.
Rosetta Stone has also opened a number of new kiosks nationwide to give language learning enthusiasts an opportunity to discover a better way. Customers can now find Rosetta Stone solutions for beginner, intermediate and advanced foreign language learners in more than 30 languages, at more than 155 kiosk locations throughout the United States.
Tom Adams, CEO, Rosetta Stone, said, “We’re pleased to open our first experience store and these new kiosks making it more convenient for customers to begin their language learning journey.”
Blockbuster Places Express DVD Kiosks
NCR, the Dayton, OH-headquartered kiosk manufacturer, has announced the installation of state-of-the-art Blockbuster Express branded DVD rental kiosks in retail locations such as supermarkets and convenience stores. Through the acquisition of TNR Holdings, NCR's strategy is to become the leading provider of self-service entertainment solutions through its partnership with Blockbuster.
John Bruno, executive vice president, NCR Industry Solutions Group, said, "As the global leader in self-service solutions, NCR is applying our expertise to the entertainment industry to offer consumers a fast, easy and convenient way to buy and rent movies, music and video games."
In the fall of 2008, NCR began a strategic alliance with Blockbuster Inc. to deploy Blockbuster Express branded DVD rental kiosks in a successful pilot program that was the first step of a national rollout of thousands of units.
Xbox 360 Introduces Project Natal
“Project Natal” is the code name for the new controller-free gaming and entertainment experience from Microsoft's Xbox 360. "Project Natal" is the world's first system to combine an RGB camera, depth sensor, multiarray microphone and custom processor running proprietary software that brings "Project Natal" experiences to every Xbox 360 console.
The “Project Natal” sensor tracks full-body movement and individual voices, creating controller-free fun and social entertainment.
Transitions Digital Graphics has obtained licensing rights for a new edge-lit technology that uses invisible ink to achieve bright multi-layer full color images. “Our product will compete between traditional single image light boxes and active displays such as LCD or plasma screens,” said Erick Couch, TDG technology director. “Instead of one static image, three images can transition in the same advertising space.” For more information contact Transitions Digital Graphics, (Tel) 805 687 7575;
(Web site) www.transitionsdg.com
Darko has introduced a 3.5" LCD Video Shelf Talker for interactive in-store promotions. The economical unit is powered by D cell batteries or an AC adapter. The unit can feature video or still images. A 2.5" speaker provides clear audio messages. The unit can feature push button activation. The display housing can be custom designed for shelf front or on-shelf displays. For more information, contact Darko, Inc., 2026 Summit Commerce Park, Twinsburg, OH 44087; (Tel) 330-425-9805; (Web site) www.darkoinc.com
AccelerOptics LLC has introduced the CAPTURE 200-inch display. Measuring 14.5 feet by 8 feet, the widescreen CAPTURE panel provides a 200 diagonal inch spectacular display. In contrast to other large display options, the CAPTURE technology delivers brilliant visuals with a screen solution that is lighter, easier to install, and consumes half the energy. Even in environments with high levels of ambient light, the CAPTURE display produces a crisp, uniform, glare-free picture across the full viewing spectrum. For more information visit (Web site) www.capturedisplays.com
Harbor Industries Awarded Family Business Of Year
Harbor Industries, a Grand Haven, MI-based display firm, has been selected as the Family Owned Business of the Year for the U.S. by the Small Business Administration. Harbor Industries, was founded in 1946 in Grand Haven, MI by Henry Parker, Sr. The company experienced tremendous growth under the leadership of Ted Parker, Henry’s son. Although Ted's children have taken over day-to-day management of the company, Ted continues to serve as the company’s Chairman and said of the award, “Few family businesses are able to transition from one generation to the next. Less are able to pass the torch to a third generation. I am proud of the longevity we have achieved.”
Milos Structural Systems has launched its new free-standing LED screen support system for use with super-sized screens up to 22.97' in width. The system was created in response to the proliferation of giant screens used at many types of events which require quick set-up and cost efficiency. The Milos Screen Support offers a maximum span and height of up to 23'. For more information, contact Milos Structural Systems, 10520 Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland, VA 23005; (Tel) 800-411-0065; (Web site) www.milosgroup.com
Intel Launches First Networked Storescapes
Inwindow Outdoor, New York City, recently launched a national storescape display campaign for Intel Corporation on behalf of global media agency OMD and creative agency Venables Bell & Partners.
As part of Intel’s “You on Tomorrow” initiative, viewers of the street-level displays are invited to text their vision of the future, which is then broadcast in to the large-scale digital screen incorporated into the Storescape™ in their city, and to other Storescapes throughout the country. For more information, visit (Web site) www.inwindowoutdoor.com
Samsung Promotes Smartphone With Provision Interactive's Air Touch Technology
Provision Interactive Technologies’ 3D Air Touch technology will be used in promotions of Samsung’s latest mobile phone.
Provision’s exclusive U.K. distributor, Wonderworks Media, has integrated Provision’s 3D interactive technology into free-standing, point-of-sale displays. The displays will project 3D holographic videos of the phone that consumers will be able to reach out and “touch.” That action will change the screen image and offer free enrollment into a sweepstakes via their cell phone.
Provision CEO Curt Thornton, said, “With this promotion Wonderworks is using our technology to take POS displays to the next level. Consumers will be completely engaged with this interactive campaign.” Samsung will place the displays in high-traffic public and retail spaces. For more information, visit (Web site) www.provision3Dmedia.com
History Channel Promotes Series With 3D LCD’s
History Channel is utilizing Magnetic Media’s 3D display technology to promote its new series, Expedition. Magnetic's 57" auto-stereoscopic Enabl3D displays will be featured in street level billboard installations designed by Pearl Media.
Passer-bys will be able to experience the world's largest glasses-free storefront 3D LCDs. For more information, about Magnetic Media’s Enable3D technology, visit (Web site) www.magnetic3d.com
Central Wisconsin Airport Introduces Digital Signage Kiosks
The Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA) has introduced a new way for companies to advertise to travelers and patrons within the airport with the placement of digital signage kiosks, electronic LCD displays that show information and advertisements using video and directional audio.
The new Digital Signage Kiosks feature three 42" vertical LCD screens allowing multiple advertisers in the same footprint.
Becker Communications, www.beckerinc.com, a Schofield, WI-based display firm created the kiosks for the program.
KioStar Introduces Shopper's Helper Kiosk
KioStar's Shopper’s Helper is a complete in-store marketing solution, designed specifically for the supermarket industry. As a solution-based, shopper-friendly kiosk, it is the next generation in interactive marketing.
For supermarkets, the Shoppers Helper maximizes shopper spending. It engages shoppers with fast, fun, solution-based information from CPG brands specific to each supermarket. This gives shoppers the information they need to forego trips to fast food, specialty, health food, beverage, pet and drug stores.
CPG Brands can provide product information, recipes, coupons, buying suggestions, meal ideas, tips, inspiration and much more. And they can do this using any combination of exciting multimedia videos, pictures, text, music, and printable information.
For more information, contact KioStar Inc., 10960 Edgemont Dr., San Jose, CA 95127; (Tel.) 408-272-9343; (Web site) www.kiostar.com
GestureTek Introduces The Cube Interactive Display System
GestureTek has introduced The Cube, a compact, turnkey, ‘plug and play’ interactive display unit that brings the power of gesture control to a variety of display spaces. Project the interactive 80" diagonal display onto almost any floor, wall, table or counter for branding, advertising, entertainment and product promotion. Completely portable, the Cube projects interactive information, special effects, games and advertising onto a 5' x 4' diagonal interactive floor display.
The Cube is cost efficient because no technician is required for set up and there's no need to hang the hardware from the ceiling. Just turn it on, place it on the floor and it runs automatically. For more information on The Cube, visit (Web site) www.gesturetek.com
Texas On Tour Brings Texas To Potential Visitors
Texas Tourism is taking the state on the road, with Texas on Tour, a high-tech, virtual reality road show. The 53-foot interactive experience will travel throughout the U.S. from mid May through October 2009.
In addition to the virtual reality technology, green screens, and interactive games, Texas on Tour offers a new 30-foot dome theater that will project a short film showcasing the amazing landscapes, fun and history of the Lone Star State. The theater presentation will also include a trivia game where guests compete for prizes.
Texas on Tour also offers double passenger kayaks allowing more guests to experience the virtual reality adventure through Texas' many waterways. Texas on Tour transports the consumer to unique outdoor Texas experiences that are highly entertaining, educational and personalized - complete with live performances from Texas musicians, a virtual beach stroll, and a dome theater offering a glimpse of the seven diverse regions of Texas.
Remy Martin Uses Holosinics’ Audio Spotlight Technology
Remy Martin’s latest outdoor advertising campaign grabs consumer attention with Audio Spotlight systems from Holosonic Research Labs, www.holosonics.com, Watertown, MA. This directional audio technology ‘beams” sound directly into the ears of individuals, without being audible to others walking nearby.
Blue Blast Media, in conjunction with National Media Services, incorporated the Audio Spotlight Systems into the Remy Martin photo montages projected on buildings throughout Chicago, L.A., NYC and Atlanta. The billboards were part of Remy Martin’s “things are getting interesting” campaign.
Holosonics’ Audio Spotlight technology targets sound that can only be heard when passersby are directly inside a tight, narrow beam of sound. When a person steps into the beam of sound they hear racing dance music, but when they step outside the area the music is gone... leaving people wondering where the sound came from and attracting consumers’ attention to the billboard above.
Spatial View Partners With T-Mobile For 3D Digital Signage
Spatial View Inc., www.spatialview.com, a leading developer of 3D display technologies, announced that T-Mobile Czech Republic is piloting its autostereoscopic 3D displays in its Prague retail locations. The screens will feature original 3D content produced by Saatchi & Saatchi to engage viewers at the point of purchase.
Using Spatial View's content creation tools, Saatchi & Saatchi updated T-Mobile’s advertising campaign to play in 3D within each of these locations. In addition, a glasses-free 3D video clip produced by T-Mobile and targeted 3D advertisements will play to captivate viewers and drive sales. The Spatial View 46 inch 3D Displays offer a glasses-free 3D viewing experience without the need for optical aids.
“Spatial View is pleased to be partnering with T-Mobile Czech Republic for its first 3D display debut in a global retail chain,” said Jason King, VP, Sales & Marketing, Spatial View. “T-Mobile is committed to the latest technology that will enhance its customer’s shopping experience.”
Category: Interactive Displays
Display Producer : SMS
760 Lakeside Drive Unit D, Gurneee, IL 60031
This interactive Schlage LiNK Endcap display for Lowes includes product spinners and LCD video with push button selection. It features a large back panel to explain features and benefits and the display also includes an installation video. Schlage wanted to create an eye-catching endcap display to promote its new LiNK product that educated the consumer, promoted the brand and the interactive feature allowed the customers a hands-on experience with the product. The display had to show both sides of the product and explain how to use it.
Category: Interactive Displays
Display Producer: SMS
760 Lakeside Drive Unit D, Gurneee, IL 60031
This MBT Shoe Tower Display is interactive with LCD video created to promote this high-end shoe brand. The tower has a nine inch LCD screen with a motion sensor and each shoe is secured with cable pull boxes for security. The double-sided display shows eight shoes at a time while maintaining a clean, eye-catching display. The video was triggered to play whenever someone passed by. The display also features the benefit of having both an interchangeable LCD card as well as allowing for interchangeable graphics on the back of the display.
Category: In-Store Media
Display Producer: Focus Packaging & Display Group
103l8 Highlands West Drive, Escondido, CA 92029
These new Wi-Fi-LCD screen signs range from 10.4", 15", 17", 19", 26" and 32". The signs feature built-in electronics for wireless communications. The units offer the media digital solution for wifi applications. The appliance enables centralized control, scheduling and delivery of multimedia content.
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