Augmented Reality Thundercats? Yes please, Aurasma!
Phil Lelyveld
Entertainment Technology Center
[Tech Digest]
Appearing on the packaging of new Thundercats, Ben 10 and Power Rangers toys, an AR trigger on the boxes to each toy can be set off using the Aurasma image recognition app.
Kids are then presented with a to-scale 3D animated model of the toy they’re looking to purchase, letting them see it from all sides and angles without having to open the box before purchasing.
It’s not just fun for kids, but useful for parents too; while Bandai and Aurasma haven’t yet made mention of the AR triggers hitting their websites, it makes perfect sense as a tool for kids and parents alike to preview their purchases online before handing over their cash. It’ll also allow potential buyers to check the commercial for each toy line too, which could help an out-of-the-loop adult in recognising a much-sought-after toy.
“The toy industry is always looking for new ways to excite customers so we are thrilled to be the first partner of this pioneering 3D technology creating 21st century window shopping,” said Darrell Jones, Marketing Director at Bandai. …
Read the full story and watch the video here: http://www.techdigest.tv/2012/01/augmented_reali.html
