echnology and Augmented Reality ( AR ) are changing how we live , work , shop , learn and play . The global pandemic has taught us to look through a different lens , exposing new , more interactive ways to consume content .

New digital experiences are rapidly taking over the ‘ New New ’ economy , especially in the events industry . As the world begins to open up and meeting face-to-face is possible again , organisations are keen to build upon the supercharged digital transformation and turn to hybrid events and AR to drive engagement higher than before .

The key to AR ’ s effectiveness lies in storytelling - the technology literally immerses attendees in a story being told by speakers or sales reps in a virtual booth , elevating people ’ s sense . Let ’ s explore how AR storytelling platforms can deliver an unforgettable immersive experience for audiences around the world .

1 . People Events aren ’ t events anymore – they ’ re experiences . People no longer want to attend one-size-fits-all B2B gatherings ; they want experiences that challenge their thinking and present information in new , exciting ways . The possible applications of hologram technology are endless . You could , for example , surprise your audience with a pre-recorded holographic message from the company CEO , introducing a keynote speaker or announcing the latest product launch with a 3D product model spinning on-stage as

they speak . And the best part ? Both your online and in-person audience members will enjoy the experience .

Nextech AR ’ s AiR Show doesn ’ t require any of the expensive hardware usually associated with VR / AR technologies like headsets or head-mounted displays - audiences simply need to download the app , scan the QR code and the message will appear in front of their eyes .

2 . Products Your hybrid experience has a purpose , whether that purpose is to increase brand awareness , lead generation or sales . By integrating AR 3D product model , visitors can simply scan a QR code anywhere within the digital experience and access product details , a pre-recorded 3D product tour or company overview .

AR / Smart Packaging is also an inseparable part of hybrid events . Our Genie in a Bottle solution empowers you to bring your brand ambassadors as AR holograms to your customers to promote brand awareness , increase sales and build a long-term relationship with them via episodic content .

On the show floor , Genie in a Bottle could be enchanted into any object . For instance , if you ’ re planning a giveaway during your hybrid event , you could place the QR code on goodie bags to attract more participants ( online and in-person ) that would then trigger the holographic presence when scanned .

Web AR and AR advertising offer a fantastic opportunity to better engage existing customers for the e-commerce and retail industry .

Web AR empowers customers to

Above : Chris Burton , Nextech

3 . Places No destination is unattainable now it can all be recreated in a 3D digital environment and Nextech ’ s AR 360 Portals empower you to do just that .

They can be used for virtual visits with 360 VR videos . There are no constraints on what type of digital environment you want to create - only your imagination .

For hybrid events , it could be your physical venue to make your virtual attendees feel as though they ’ re attending live . For in-person attendees , you could be taking them for a virtual tour around your HQ .

The lines between digital and physical have been forever blurred .

Hosting a successful hybrid event is about blurring the lines between digital and physical and AR can help achieve that balance .

Never before have we had such a powerful storytelling medium that would allow us to grab and keep the attention of audiences across the globe , whether they ’ re joining in-person or virtually .