Long Range Tracking for Advertisers
May 10th, 2007
“A Canadian firm has launched a device that can track the gaze of multiple people from up to 10 meterss away. Originally developed at Queen’s University, Ontario, they hope to sell it to advertisers to allow them to monitor how many people look at their ads. Admittedly they are trying more benign stuff too like better hearing aids, but I doubt that will make up for movie posters that make a song and dance whenever you glance their way.”
The developers behind the technology – dubbed Eyebox2 – believe it could have a range of possible applications, but should particularly interest advertisers. This is because it allows billboards to track people’s attention and perhaps respond when it wanes.
Besides tracking the # of eye balls - we expect advertisers to use the system to follow content. Do individuals necessarily stare at the “shampoo bottle, logo or the pretty girl in the bathing suit?” Interesting results will surely emerge.
If this technology works - expect other more practical and beneficial uses ranging from services for disability, systems of control and other tracking analytic type uses.
Cool stuff!
Via - New Scientist
