Online checkouts in the real world

Google, in its consistently innovative ways of incorporating technology, ease of use and advertising, posted a video on YouTube recently "documenting" what the online checkout would be like if we had to go through the steps in real life. Moving from the inconsistencies most people have when creating a username for each site they purchase from, to the password, postal code and even the dreaded timeout session and terms of service and agreements, Google shows the realities of why online shopping can be a true pain in the ass, which of course, leads into their own Google Checkout, making it easier to make purchases on the web (and soon, via Google Wallet, in real life).

Logos jump to the next interactive level

Beck's Beer takes their key logo to the next level in their newest mobile application. The Beck's Sobriety Test offers a handy tool to somewhat inaccurately tell you whether you are fit to drive.

According to Beck's, the most difficult thing to do while intoxicated is fit a key in your car, and such, they've created an app that tests your ability to do just that. Not only must you fit the virtual key into its keyhole, you must keep it there as it moves around the screen for 25 seconds.

What happens if you fail? A cab is called to pick you up. Thanks to GPS technology, it can locate available cabs nearby and once the test is failed, offers an easy prompt to call the nearest service to pick you up.

Experimental "fashion shoot" with laundry detergent

In September, Proctor & Gamble's European laundry detergent brand, Ariel, set up shop in a Stockholm train station.

Via Facebook, people could play a shooting game with laundry, which triggered a robot in the station to shoot the person's chosen ammo (ketchup, mustard, wine, etc.) at a passing shirt or other white garment on a conveyor belt. Not only is the interaction between Facebook and the robot, and the robot as a spectacle in the station, whenever a Facebook user gets a bullseye on a garment, it is then washed with Ariel detergent and mailed straight to the Facebook user's home address! Great integration of online and non-trad.