Augmented Reality (AR) is the next frontier in the enhanced user experience promised by technology. Soon, all of our gadgets can seamlessly blend with the world around us, prompting us with helpful tips, directions, and even recommendations.
But as early as now, the City of Firsts has been utilizing this groundbreaking new technology to bring to life new experiences that can be had at Araneta City.
At the activity area of Gateway Mall, visitors can enjoy the benefits of AR technology at the Binibining Pilipinas 2022 Glam Shot Photo Exhibit. At first look, you’ll see the striking 7-ft tall portrait images of 40 Binibining Pilipinas. But what’s novel about this exhibit is that once you train your phone on the images, you’ll see the candidates come to life and display all their fierceness right on your screen.
To try out this AR experience, download the UniteAR app on their smartphones, open the AR camera on the app, and scan the QR code in any of the panels. From there, the images of the Binibinis will spring to life offering us a glimpse of their beauty and grace. (See full instructions in the video below.)
“We believe in always elevating the experience of our customers. Through the use of AR in activities like this photo exhibit, we are bringing technological innovation to our patrons that allows them to have an exciting virtual Binibining Pilipinas experience,” Marjorie Go, AVP for Marketing of Araneta City, said.
The Binibining Pilipinas 2022 Glam Shot Photo Exhibit will stay at the Gateway Mall Activity Area until June 11 and will be moved to other Araneta City malls like Farmers Plaza and Ali Mall in the days leading to the pageant’s Grand Coronation Night.
Elsewhere in the City of Firsts, huge artworks and murals are also powered by AR technology. There’s the Tropical Mural near the Gateway Mall skybridge (near Miniso), the Pet Pals Mural beside the Gateway Mall-General Roxas Ave. exit (beside Conti’s Bakeshop), the Waterfalls Mural at the New Frontier Theater Arcade (beside McDonalds), and the Kobe Bryant Mural at the Shopwise Arcade (beside Bonchon) — all of which can come to life on your smartphones when you scan the QR codes near these artworks. Here’s how:
AR technology is also currently being used by Araneta City’s Gateway Gallery for its groundbreaking SiningSaysay: Philippine History in Art exhibit, which features 30 large history paintings that mark various pivotal moments in Philippine history. Visitors who will scan the paintings via the Gateway Gallery mobile app will be greeted with an informational video about the artwork. Below is a quick preview:
“AR technology adds a layer of innovation to the experience of the Araneta City-zens. Whether it’s used to showcase the Filipina beauty or the very rich and diverse culture around the world, AR can create opportunities to engage customers like never before, so expect to see more offerings with this interactive feature at the City of Firsts,” Go added.
