Dutch architectural firm UNStudio, along with Experientia, has created the Nippon Moon, a groundbreaking observation wheel for Japan. The teched-out ferris wheel will feature integrated smartphone and tablet connectivity and double-decker capsules. Each capsule will have a different theme and a downloadable app to enhance said theme.
Tickets can be purchased for Nippon Moon online and each ticket is interactive, displaying the time until your ride. (Rides are scheduled in advance to eliminate waiting in lines.) Once inside the capsules, passengers can use their smartphone or tablet to interact with the pod; Experientia designed the in-pod interaction features. Sounds and graphics related to the pod's theme will pop up and riders can communicate with those in other pods via the app. The location for the Nippon Moon has not yet been set.
Augmented Reality Ferris Wheels
The Nippon Moon Uses Your Smartphone to Enhance the Ride
Trend Themes
1. Augmented Reality - Opportunity for integrating augmented reality technology into existing attractions, providing enhanced experiences for visitors.
2. Smartphone Connectivity - Potential to incorporate smartphone connectivity to create interactive and personalized experiences for customers in various industries.
3. Theme-based Capsules - Opportunity to design themed capsules with downloadable apps that provide tailored content and entertainment.
Industry Implications
1. Tourism and Travel - Disruptive innovation opportunity for attractions to incorporate augmented reality and smartphone connectivity to offer immersive and customized experiences for tourists.
2. Entertainment - Potential for integrating augmented reality and smartphone connectivity in entertainment venues to transform traditional experiences into interactive and personalized ones.
3. Architecture and Design - Opportunity for architects and designers to create theme-based capsules for various applications such as observation wheels, theme parks, and museums.