From talking public toilets to nap-capsules on bikes, here are some things that made us say “That’s Interesting” in the studio this week.
“Hi toilet.”
Alexa and Siri almost feel like family. But have you given thought to what other inanimate objects we might be talking to in the future? How about a public toilet? Well, Japan’s Tokyo Toilet have done just that, creating a voice-activated restroom you can enter, unzip, plop, flush, wash and wipe without having to touch a surface – all it takes is a hello! The pandemic has made germaphobes of most of us. Perhaps this is the birth of hyg-tech?
Say hello here
Phygital fashion.
Decimation of live events over the pandemic, by necessity, led to an online streaming migration. But these blurred lines between the physical and digital seem like they’re here to stay. Ryot Lab – Yahoo’s experimental content studio and official innovation partner to New York Fashion Week – have been working with British designer Christian Cowan on web-based augmented reality that allows fans to experience his fashion week show from wherever they are in the world. Online streaming of live events leads to a larger audience, and with some clever (and creative) application it can be an enhanced – rather compromised – experience.
The new world is here
Youngsters rule the world.
Amanda Gorman is a writer and activist fighting for equality, access and social change, as well the youngest inaugural poet in the U.S. history. And, she’s just been named Estee Lauder’s first ever ‘Global Changemaker’ – with the brand pledging $3m to support grassroots initiatives aimed at increasing child literacy. Society’s values and its role models are changing. To connect with this, rather than simple transactional sponsorships, brands should think about ways to make tangible benefits to society.
Learn more about Amanda here
Siesta time!
Ikea keeps surprising us. A couple of weeks ago it became a renewable energy provider in Sweden; now, its cycling around Paris on sleep-capsule bikes pushing people to take lunchtime naps. Siestas, as they’re otherwise known, have proven health and cognitive benefits, yet they’re not widely practiced in Europe. Sensing now might be time for reappraisal, Ikea have taken on this educational task. In homeworking, the pandemic has created a whole new economy. And there are ample opportunities for brands to service this new space.
Enjoy your siesta here