Buick Test Drives Aurasma Visual Browsing Technology with Launch of "Buick Best Tech" App

NEW YORK, Nov. 22, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Buick, the fastest growing auto brand in the United States, has joined forces with Aurasma, the world's first visual browser, to create the "Buick Best Tech" app that seamlessly combines in-store browsing with online shopping - an experience exclusively available at the WIRED Store in New York's Times Square.  

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110711/SF32613LOGO)

To watch a short video of this unique experience, click here.

For one day only from 12:00pm - 7:00pm EST, Black Friday shoppers will have the opportunity to use Buick's Best Tech app, powered by Aurasma, to shop and win this year's top 15 featured gift ideas selected by Buick.  The consumer launches the app and points the viewer at the featured products to instantaneously unlock interactive digital content including product videos, 3D models and entry into the Black Friday sweepstakes contest.  

"Buick has re-invented its brand to become synonymous with innovation and modern luxury.  By creating the Buick Best Tech app, the brand engages tech-hungry consumers to experience cutting-edge technology in a way that also enhances their shopping experience," said Aurasma's General Manager, Jennifer Rapp.

Complementing Buick's progressive marketing initiatives, the Buick Best Tech app gives WIRED store visitors all the benefits of holiday shopping without the hassle of long lines or heavy shopping bags.  Those wishing to purchase the item, simply click "Add to Cart" and the product is instantly deposited into their virtual cart.

"As WIRED Store's presenting sponsor, Buick is excited to offer consumers an engaging way to learn about and shop for the hottest technologies of this holiday season, including the 2012 Buick LaCrosse," said Craig Bierley, director of Advertising and Promotions for Buick. "Thanks to Aurasma's innovative interactive technology WIRED Store visitors will be able to learn about LaCrosse and its fuel-saving eAssist system in a way that is both fun and informative."

Much like the sleek 2012 Buick LaCrosse with fuel-efficient eAssist technology that is featured on the WIRED show floor, Buick selected this year's Holiday Pick List based on stylish innovation, creative design, and cutting-edge technology.  The eclectic mix of prizes includes everything from the SteamPunk Vintage Cufflinks to the ThinkGeek Cube Laser Virtual Keyboard.

Available to download from the App Store or Android Marketplace today, the Buick Best Tech mobile shopping experience is taking place from now until December 24th.  The Sweepstakes Contest is for one day only, Black Friday, November 25th.  Those with a smart device are encouraged to download the app prior to visiting the WIRED Store; however, smart devices will be provided in-store as well.  

Notes for Editors

ABOUT AURASMA

Aurasma is the world's first visual browser - a new platform technology that merges the physical world with the virtual. Available as a free app for iPhone4 & 4S, iPad2 and high-powered Android devices or as a free kernel for developers, Aurasma uses advanced image and pattern recognition to recognize and understand real-world images and objects in much in way the human brain does.  It then seamlessly blends the real-world with rich interactive content such as videos and animations called "Auras".  Auras can be created for printed images, product packaging, clothing, physical places and users can even use the app to create and share their own.

Since its launch in June 2011, Aurasma has had more than two million downloads. Over 800 partners in markets including retail, sport, automotive, consumer electronics, entertainment, advertising and publishing are using the free technology in their campaigns or embedding the technology in their own applications. Aurasma was developed by and is part of software company Autonomy - an HP Company.

ABOUT BUICK

Buick is a modern luxury brand offering vehicles with sculpted designs, luxurious interiors with thoughtful personal technologies, along with responsive-yet-efficient performance. Buick is attracting new customers with its portfolio of award-winning luxury models, including the Enclave crossover, LaCrosse sedan, Regal sport sedan and highly anticipated all-new 2012 Buick Verano sedan. Buick is one of the fastest growing majors in the U.S. and remains a best-selling brand in China, with continuing record growth. Learn more about Buick cars and crossovers at www.buick.com, on Twitter @buick or at www.facebook.com/buick.

SOURCE Aurasma