The Google shop-in-shop (SIS) officially launched Thursday 12 March and is selling Android phones, Chromebook laptops, and Chromecast TV service whilst offering visitors the opportunity to try out various interactive AV installations.
To provide a key focal point for the shop, AV integrator Pixel Projects installed a Portal (formally Liquid Galaxy) with software development partners End Point. The large scale panoramic display provides users with a truly immersive experience. Shop visitors can use a joystick mechanism to dive into any point of the earth, land or sea via Google maps.
For budding artists Pixel Projects also installed the Google Doodle wall, in close partnership with Deeplocal. The wall features a digital spray can, allowing users to create virtual art on a large scale surface. There is also a 'Chromecast pod' which encourages visitors to try the device by casting their own content onto the screen. Pixel Projects provided Crestron control of the entire experience complete with video communication and zoned audio.
"Pixel Projects began working on this project with retail design and project management company, Make Retail in March 2014," says Keith Morris, global retail manager, Pixel Projects "We constructed the first mock up in California for Google's Retail Design team and worked tirelessly through to prototype build, development and final deployment in the UK. The result is remarkable; you only have to witness the excitement from the public to see what a success it all is. I can't wait to see the next instalment."
The shop will host regular classes and events to include tutorials on using Google devices and teaching the understanding of how different devices work together to enable a more connected lifestyle
James Elias, the UK marketing director for Google, elaborates, "We're incredibly excited to launch this space - the first of its kind anywhere in the world. With the Google shop, we want to offer people a place where they can play, experiment and learn about all of what Google has to offer; from an incredible range of devices to a totally-connected, seamless online life."
Ainsley Sykes, the senior project manager for Currys PC World, said, "We are delighted to partner with Google in bringing a world first retail experience to one of our stores. This will be a new and innovative way for customers to engage in store, interacting with the immersive technology as well as having fun while learning."
(Jim Evans)
