Messukeskus Helsinki has affirmed its commitment to tapping into the AR-market, which is predicted to total $120bn and to engulf most of the AR/VR market by 2020. (Source: www.digi-capital.com)
Starting from the Nordic Travel Fair on 19 January 2017, Augmented Reality (AR) has been part of the exhibition experience.
AR infotainment has been a permanent part of the customer experience at Messukeskus Helsinki, Expo and Convention Centre. This is the first shared, large scale AR infotainment and ad application in use in the world.
AR incorporates computer-generated virtual images into the real world, providing a seamless customer experience. The Pokémon Go frenzy gave the general public a hands-on experience of augmented reality.
The infotainment product was launched in cooperation with augmented reality company Immersal Ltd. The solution implemented at Messukeskus is like a consumer-friendly version of VR: no goggles or glasses required – all you need is a smartphone or a tablet (iOS and Android).
Messukeskus is one of the few shared, permanent AR pioneers in the world – and the first international trade fair industry player to fully embrace augmented reality.
“This is the first permanent, large-scale AR application in exhibition business. Our solution is also the first fully immersive, shared AR solution in the world to be implemented in such large-scale.
Visitors are offered a wide range of experiences and services. AR can help visitors find the things that interest them the most, whether it’s an interesting stand, a favourite restaurant, a programme venue, product, or a friend attending the event. AR adds a Wow factor to the event with new content and entertainment,” said Maria Mroue, Messukeskus director of marketing and communications.
For exhibitors, AR offers enhanced AR visibility outside their own stand in form of interactive, mid-air AR ads. Gaming and related insights can be used to get visitors hooked. AR covers a variety of elements, such as virtual posters, animation, games, interactivity, or guidance.
