Augmented Reality spreads happiness in a can during pandemic | 06-05-2020 |

Solucan, a Quebec, Canada based digital beverage can printer, has joined with local microbreweries, in an effort to emphasise solidarity and locally sourced products during the current pandemic, through the use of augmented reality. Solucan partnered with Ô Quai des Brasseurs, Kombuchanv, le Temps d’une Pinte, and AIPIA member Zappar for the launch of “Scan the Can” #cavabienaller (#thingswillgetbetter).

Zappar,probably the top augmented reality platform and creative studio in this sector, worked with Solucan and James Forest, a musician, on the launch the initiative. Canned beverages from the participating microbreweries will feature the #cavabienaller rainbow logo, where an interactive WebAR experience activates using a QR code, which can be scanned from enabled mobile devices.

According to the company, this initiative aims to add a splash of colour onto the grey canvas that this period of confinement represents. When scanned, a face filter appears where clouds gather around the participant’s head, with rain and thunder. After a few seconds, the clouds dispel to reveal a rainbow shining over the user’s head, representing how the situation will improve. Once a photo is taken, it can then be shared across social media and with friends and family.

Ed Morris, VP of strategic partnerships in North America for Solucan, comments: “It has been an honour to be a part of this fantastic campaign and to donate our resources, in the spirit of solidarity and togetherness, to help spread a little bit of hope and positivity during this difficult period.”

WebAR is a new way to access AR content, enabling users to access AR content via the browser on their smartphones, without the need to download an app. Customers open their camera, scan the code, and a web page opens up, acting as the gateway into the experience. This means anyone with a phone and data connection can use the AR face filters.

Solucan says that all of the participants, from the graphic artist to the programmers and the artisans, are participating in this project voluntarily, in the spirit of solidarity. The brand owners taking part are also reportedly donating a portion of the profits from the products they sell to charities.