John Lewis Supports Christmas Ad with Tech-driven In-store Experience

montys gogglesThe John Lewis Christmas advert has quickly become a seasonal tradition, and this years campaign, Monty the Penguin, is being accompanied by a tech-driven experience at the companys flagship Oxford Street branch.

Created in partnership with Microsoft, Montys Magical Toy Machine creates a 3D interactive experience using the Kinect 2 device from the XBox One. Children can scan their favourite toys using photogrammetry technology and have them appear on screen as a moving, life-like 3D image that dances for the child.

The experience is part of Montys Den, which also includes Montys Goggles, where children can use Google Cardboard AR headsets to enter a 360-degree virtual world and interact with the young boy and penguin who star in the festive ad campaign.

“At John Lewis, this time of year is all about helping our customers create their dream Christmas,” said Craig Inglis, marketing director at John Lewis. “We hope this uplifting tale of Sams love for his friend Monty will remind people of the magic of Christmas through a childs eyes and inspire them to think how they can make the festive season extra special for their friends and loved ones.”

“We hope our customers will love Monty and Mabel and they will have more chances than ever to interact with them through some genuinely exciting technology firsts.”