The mobile-phone-controlled interactive mannequin

May 18, 2006 The opening of the Digital Retailing Expo in Chicago today will see the launch of the World's first mobile-enabled digital interactive mannequin. The digital mannequin allows consumers to customize the model's clothes displayed on the screen using their cell phones as a remote control. The technology enables consumers to use their mobile phone like a remote control to surf or communicate with large screens in storefront windows, cafes, bars or city streets and converts passive out-of-home networks into interactive marketing networks, creating a closed loop between the web, mobile phones and retail spaces.

The patented technology has been developed by LocaModa, a privately-held company headquartered in Massachusetts and founded by Stephen Randall, a former EVP and founder of Symbian. LocaModa supplies complete end-to-end interactive digital signage solutions, and also integrates its patented mobile-enabling technology with other narrowcast companies such as Nanonation who already support LocaModa's technology.

LocaModa's technology works on any phone and network without requiring the end-user to download any software. StreetSurfer creates a closed loop between the web, the location and the mobile consumer to create an engaging experience and measurable interactive results for retailers at their storefronts.

Other StreetSurfer applications being previewed by LocaModa at the Digital Retailing Expo include interactive real estate, travel agent and branded interactive games.