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AI, fandoms, and interactive innovation at the Web Summit 2024
From a long list of startups competing to bring the best of innovation to the digital and tech markets to big corporations and countries showcasing what the future of tech really looks like. Web Summit 2024 proved once again why it’s considered a global hub for technology enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and visionaries.
Held in the vibrant city of Lisbon, this year’s event sparked conversations about AI, sustainability, and the role of technology in shaping our world. In this blog, we'll share a sneaky peek at all the Web Summit 2024 had in store, setting the tone for what’s next in the tech landscape.
Gamification of Max's Mansion for The Red Bulletin
User trends are the real MVPs
Looking for the best insights on innovation and market trends can feel like quite a quest in a room packed with interactive screens and full-motion robots announcing the “next big thing,” not to mention the challenge of networking. But the truth is, none of these activities would be remotely possible without the attendees' passion for bustling, dynamic environments, and luckily, Stephanie Fried, Fandom CMO, spilt all the tea on user trends.
In a talk called “Unlocking the power of 'me time’,” Stephanie showed us how tapping into fandoms can fuel brand love. Based on Fandom's annual study, she revealed that 50% of users spend their 'me time’ engaging in activities in the entertainment and gaming industry. What's more intriguing is the emotional reaction to each activity:
- When playing music, 21% of users feel engaged and 2% feel in a zen mood.
- When watching movies and shows, 57% feel relaxed, 17% feel happy and 11% feel in a zen mood.
- When watching sports, 39% of users feel frustrated and 27% feel anxious.
- When playing games, 32% feel stimulated, 30% feel accomplished and 27% feel focused and leaned in.
But the real showstoppers are that 84% of people engage in additional fan activities other than just watching or playing, and 83% feel more positively about brands that embrace fandoms through authentic advertising. So… marketers and brands, this is your clear sign to start co-creating with fandoms! #NumbersDontLie
Check out this Genshin Impact interactive video we created for Fandom for a little inspiration boost.
The future of 3D we want to see!
One stand that truly stood out was Niantic's, where an interactive bingo challenge invited users to explore their suite of digital products. Participants tested out various tools at the stand, earning stamps on their bingo cards for each one they tried, all in the hope of winning some stylish and functional Niantic-branded merch to take home.
Let’s be honest, everyone loves free merch! But as you rushed to complete the game, you couldn’t help but realise the impressive deck of products Niantic has to offer. From their Spatial Studio Platform to the Scaniverse app which transforms real-world objects into 3D assets, to VR rooms featuring the most adorable virtual pet creatures brought to life through Snap lenses - Niantic is a trailblazer in this space and a potential partner for forward-thinking folks like HLabs (that's us!) in the future!
Yes! Interactive maps in the house
Innovation in the Middle East is reaching impressive heights, and Dubai’s stand at the event was a shining example. Visitors were welcomed by a massive interactive screen at the entrance, showcasing a detailed map of all the metropolitan areas ripe for exploration and investment in Dubai.
It immediately brought to mind the Mapbox-powered map we created for Time Out and Mr. Black.
Inspired by Dubai’s display, we should definitely consider bringing our work to life on an interactive screen soon!
What’s a Rich Text element?
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iRobot is no longer fiction
If you grew up imagining a future led by AI robots inspired by iRobot, here’s an update: the lesson seems to be that making them less human-like helps us embrace them more easily.
While the Tesla bot continues to grab headlines (and fuel memes in our chat groups and social media feeds), the industry showcased a different trend at Web Summit. Instead of humanoid designs, robots appeared in pet-like forms, playing various roles throughout the event. From security bots scanning attendees at the entrances to companion bots mingling and interacting with the crowd, these AI-powered “pets” added a friendly and futuristic touch.
Maybe it’s time for HLabs to start brainstorming its very own bot pet. Stay tuned!
Whether you’re looking to revamp your digital presence, dive into interactive experiences, or create innovative campaigns that leave a mark, our team is here to bring your vision to life.
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