Digital Signage Universe – The Blog

Convergence of Technologies Is the Dominant Trend at the National Retail Federation’s 98th Annual Convention and EXPO

At this week’s National Retail Federation (NRF) convention and EXPO held at New York’s Jacob K. Javits Center, it was interesting to see the number of solutions being offered that marry different technologies that enable retailers to increase customer satisfaction and build brand loyalty. 

The solutions on display combined multiple technologies that benefited both consumers and retailers. RFID is everywhere. RFID-enabled systems can now help retailers track inventory as well as develop shopper profiles to study the buying habits of consumers. RFID is also being used for contactless payment solutions, interactive shopping guides, and loyalty card programs.

At past events, such as Digital Signage Expo and KioskCom, we have noted the introduction of hybrid systems from Mediatile and Intava that combine digital signage with kiosk functionality. At NRF, several new players have entered this field, most notably, Intel. Introduced as a proof-of-concept system, Intel unveiled a retail point-of-purchase system that combines a kiosk, digital signage, touch-enabled tabletop display, and RFID into a streamlined compact-form factor.

The Intel system has the ability to read RFID tags embedded in merchandise that then simultaneously trigger information on the digital signage display and touchpad. The system displays information about the item, customer reviews, special promotions, and makes suggestions on additional items that the customer might be interested in. 

Intel worked with San Francisco–based Frog Design to develop the system. Because it is modular, the system can be upgraded to a next-generation CPU platform so retailers can remain in sync with the latest technology advancements. Intel’s POS demo can be customizable with a removable PC board and individual modules that can be added on, taken off, interchanged, or replaced to meet evolving business needs

To Read More about the 98th Annual NRF Convention visit: Digital Signage Universe

Cineplex Entertainment Deploys Digital Signage

Cineplex Entertainment, the largest motion picture exhibitor in Canada, recently announced the opening of the 9-screen, 54,000-square-foot SilverCity Fairview Mall Cinemas in Toronto. The SilverCity location includes more than 90 digital LCD screens that provide theater patrons with show information and entertainment. The Fairview location is the latest location to include digital signage. A Hamilton, Ontario location was also opened recently and includes more than 88 digital screens. By the end of 2008, Cineplex Entertainment deployed digital signage networks in 5 theater locations with additional plans to expand the network in 2009.

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Did you know that there are more than 120 companies producing media players for digital signage applications?

If your looking for suppliers of digital signage media players, the Digital Signage Universe Directory is the only place on the Internet where you can see every digital signage media player available on the market—all in one place. The Directory list manufacturers alphabetically with direct links to each companies' Website, saving you time and energy to locate the best solution for your network.

The Digital Signage Universe Directory is your gateway for finding digital signage information on the Internet. Our directory is updated continually and includes direct links to suppliers of equipment, software, networks, content development, content delivery, installers, and providers. If you are deploying a new network or upgrading an existing network, Digital Signage Universe is your best resource for finding information and qualified suppliers.

The digital signage industry is growing at an astounding rate. New products, networks, and providers are launching almost daily. In today's fast-changing marketplace it's more important than ever to be able to locate information quickly. The Digital Signage Universe is the most complete global news source and link directory available for the digital signage and digital out-of-home marketplace. We help you see all the possibilities so you can make smart and informed decisions.

For a complete list of global manufacturers visit the Digital Signage Universe Directory here