Archive for March, 2011

Buick gets creative with Google Goggles

Posted: March 8, 2011 in Buick
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As part of its uncoordinated Quixotic mission to attract younger buyers, Buick is one of several companies using Google Goggles, Google’s amazing visual search engine, to connect with potential customers.

Currently, the Google Goggles app is only available on Android-based smartphones.  That makes sense since Google gives away its Android operating system free to mobile phone and tablet PC manufacturers.  To the consternation of many, it’s not yet available on Apple’s iPhone. I guess it’s up to Apple to approve the app, but right now, it’s an exclusive selling feature for Android smartphones.   The strained relationship between Apple and Google doesn’t help.

You open Google Goggles, point it at something you are looking at like a poster, print ad or even a building, snap a picture and then the app, using Google’s proprietary image recognition technology, searches for information on the subject.   It’s pretty amazing. Check out Google’s demonstration video:

Here’s a video that highlights how a few pioneering advertisers, T-Mobile, Buick, Disney, Delta Airlines and Diageo, are experimenting with an “immersive digital experience” when users of Goggles point their lenses at a print advertisement.

I think the concept is innovative and has exciting potential.  I’m not so sure that it will sell more Buicks, but it does connect a potential customer directly with Buick’s online interactive content. I expect many other car manufacturers to  jump on this bandwagon.

Roadside Sculpture, Palm Springs Style

Posted: March 7, 2011 in Roadside Art
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The property owner and artist-in-residence has been a local fixture in Palm Springs for years.  His large lot and home in the Ruth Hardy Park/Movie Colony area of Palm Springs (not far from Frank Sinatra’s home) has become home to countless sculptures made from various materials including metal and wood.

I don’t know who he is, but all the locals know about the place and it’s quite a marvel.  At Christmas, the place is lit up with all sorts of holiday-themed sculptures.  The rest of the year, we have the “permanent” collection on display.

Is it hideous junk or genius art? It’s all in the eye of the beholder.

The entire back yard is filled with these sculptures. I think it might be a scary amusement park for kids.

Check out the pond, complete with ducks, bridge and archway matched with a True Value trash can.

I think the JOY sign was left over from Christmas.

If the knights in armor don't scare you away from the front door, nothing will.

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