Empire State Building
As some of you know, I am involved in the development of the Empire State Building’s iTouch-based mobile tour system. I’ll fill in details once we launch, but suffice it to say, we are running on-board content in 7 languages, in native mode (not through a web browser.) Initially, we are using wi-fi to toggle content between the queue line, where there is up to a two-hour wait, and the Observatory where users are “locked out” from anything but the vista’s information.
Nowadays, many visitors will have their own headsets/earbuds but we still need to make a decision on what to rent – 0r give away – with the devices. Decision criteria include audio quality (it’s mostly voice, not music) robustness, cleanability, visibility (it’s a nice marketing icon if they can be seen being worn,) and usability (no wierd over-the-ear behind-the-neck or clip-on ear items please!) and cost.
An ESB visit is a highly social experience so the classic paradox applies.
Any thoughts or suggestions as to make and model, UV cleaning gadgets? We may try a variety of headsets and I hope I can report on their utility by late summer.
Please visit Headsets and Protective Cases for more information on the Empire State Building’s solution.