Microsoft today unveiled a new advertising format that utilizes the Xbox 360 Kinect’s voice and gesture controls to create interactive advertisements.
Users will be able to use voice commands or gestures to naturally engage with advertising and extend the interaction from the living room. “Simply put, NUads break down the barriers between consumers and content on the TV screen. NUads make traditional linear content— like a 30 second TV spot— irresistibly interactive,” said Microsoft Advertising General Manager Mark Kroese.
Mark Kroese demonstrated five voice commands on Xbox Live that advertisers will be able to buy when the product is expected to launch in the spring of 2012:
1. When a user says “Xbox tweet,” he or she can immediately tweet something about the brand.
2. Saying “Xbox More” lets users request additional information or a coupon to be emailed to them.
3. Saying “Xbox Near Me” pulls up a Bing map that locates the nearest retailer, and sends the user a text message with the location.
4. Saying “Xbox Schedule” sends the user a calender reminder about an upcoming show.
5. Finally, when prompted to vote at the end of an ad, the user can wave his or her hand to give feedback.
