See that beautiful model there, frolicking with a few of her friends? No? Well, your smartphone can. This billboard – and two others like it – is one giant QR code that in this case gives particular significance to augmented reality.
newVideoPlayer( {"type":"video","player":"http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=12855619&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1","customParams":[] ,"width":570,"height":375,"ratio":0.75,"flashData":"","embedName":null,"objectId":null,"noEmbed":false,"source":"vimeo","wrap":true} );
Giant model steps over Times Square crowd, snaps Polaroid, shows close-up, leaves. Repeat. Nice little augmented reality billboard cycle you’ve got there, Forever 21. Oh! Except for when she picks someone up and waves them around. That part’s different.
newVideoPlayer( {"type":"video","player":"http://www.youtube.com/v/uDTdHG_FytM&hl=en&fs=1&fmt=22","customParams":[] ,"width":570,"height":412,"ratio":0.824,"flashData":"","embedName":null,"objectId":null,"noEmbed":false,"source":"youtube"} );
This augmented reality billboard in the Netherlands involuntarily pulls passersby into a scene depicting the brutal beating of a paramedic. As the shock wears off, the billboard delivers a brief message regarding the citizens’ role in prevention/cessation of violence.
newVideoPlayer( {"type":"video","player":"http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=10695851&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1","customParams":[] ,"width":570,"height":375,"ratio":0.75,"flashData":"","embedName":null,"objectId":null,"noEmbed":false,"source":"vimeo"} );
If imitation is the most sincere form of flattery, then this new interactive sign from IBM really, truly wants to get on your good side. It changes its appearance based on what the viewer is wearing.
If you happen to be in Times Square any time soon, you may notice this billboard for Best Buy’s electronics recycling program. Make sure you take a close look! It’s composed entirely of outmoded gear.
Huge billboards of FBI’s most wanted have already been hoisted up in Times Square, but unfortunately that’s not the only crim-soaked corner of the globe. Buildings across the UK are splashing scary mugs on them too, like the one above.
