The world's first iBar was installed at 24, a high-end Soho nightclub in London, and is already a smashing success! The $147,000 table tops have sensors that detect what you're drinking, so when you can't remember how many something-tinis you had, the gizmo will figure it out for you by scanning the shape of your glass.
If that doesn't blow your mind, experts are guessing that in the not-so-distant future, picking up your tab will be as easy as placing your bank card on the 12 ft bar. "They also say the interactive device will be able to upload pics and vids from your mobile to show off to other drinkers in the same way," added the Sun. "Plus punters will be able to flick through food menus, special drinks offers and jukebox tracks using their finger."
The bar "can be programmed to display any image, for example a Stella logo could appear when a pint is placed on it or footage of grapes when you plonk your plonk on top."
Check out the video to see the iBar in action!
World's Most High Tech Bar
iBar at 24
Trend Themes
1. Smart Bar Technology - Opportunity for businesses to innovate with interactive bar tables that have sensors to detect drinks and enable easy payment.
2. Interactive Drink Ordering - Potential for interactive devices at bars to allow customers to browse menus, access special offers, and order drinks with a touch.
3. Multi-media Tabletops - Emerging trend of tabletops that can display images, videos, and other content to enhance the bar experience.
Industry Implications
1. Nightclub Industry - Disruptive innovation opportunity for nightclubs to incorporate smart bar technology for improved customer experience and convenience.
2. Hospitality Industry - Opportunity for hotels, resorts, and restaurants to adopt interactive drink ordering systems to enhance customer engagement and streamline service.
3. Retail Technology Industry - Emerging industry of multi-media tabletops that can be utilized by bars and other businesses to provide interactive experiences and engage customers.