Revibes: Latest Addition to AD-Tech
the founders of Revibes found a way to enables users to access content simply by bringing their smartphone closer to the product.
At SLUSH 2024, one tech company stood out for its innovative approach to blending physical products with digital experiences. This startup, Revibes, has created a unique platform that not only enhances advertising capabilities, but also integrates anti-counterfeiting features, making it a game-changer for businesses and consumers alike.
At first glance, Revibes seems like they are storing memories of people in a video game. Naturally, I had to interview this start-up out of Black Mirror episode.
Connecting the Physical and Digital Worlds
Revibes focuses on bridging the gap between physical goods and digital interaction. Their flagship product allows brands to insert digital content directly into physical items, such as shoes, creating a seamless blend of marketing and engagement.
According to one of the founders, Gian Luigi Bacchi, “When you place our product into the shoe, it activates a digital experience. You can view all the content selected by the company and interact with it in real-time.” This content is modifiable via a user-friendly app.
To be able to edit and update promotions and ads makes for a great marketing hook. This works not just for bigger corps but local t-shirt owners, mom & pop stores.
Stranger: “Where did you get that purse?”
Me: “I don’t remember. Touch your phone to it & let’s find out.”
The Three Pillars: Communication, Engagement, and Protection
Revibes three pillars gives them a strong start as a piece of adtech.
Communication: By providing additional product information, special offers, or interactive experiences, this technology allows for deeper connections with consumers.
Engagement: Brands can keep customers engaged by continuously updating digital content, promoting a longer-lasting relationship that goes beyond a single interaction.
Anti-Counterfeiting: Embedding secure digital elements into physical items, businesses can prevent fraud and protect their intellectual property.
The startup’s patented technology uses a feature called “uplift,” which enables users to access content simply by bringing their smartphone closer to the product. “You don’t need to download an app to engage with the product. With our uplift technology, the digital experience is triggered by proximity, and it opens a small part of an app in the cloud,” the founder explained. This frictionless experience makes it easier for consumers to interact with products without the hassle of additional downloads.
From Photography to Digital Integration
Interestingly, Revibes’ roots lie in the photography industry. Initially a product that allowed users to link digital photos to physical objects, the company’s innovation evolved as it realized the vast potential of applying this technology in the B2B space. “We started with the concept of digital memory — connecting photos to physical items — and quickly realized that there was a broader market need for this technology in advertising and brand protection,” shared Bacchi.
The Future of Digital Product Engagement
This technology is not just about creating better advertising or preventing counterfeiting; it’s about enhancing the way businesses and consumers interact with products. As the Bacchi put it, “We’re not just storing memories. We’re creating new ways for people to experience and connect with products in a digital-first world.”
By integrating digital content with physical products, this startup is paving the way for a more interactive, personalized, and secure future of product engagement. As digital and physical worlds continue to converge, their platform could redefine how we think about marketing, security, and consumer interaction.
With endless possibilities on the horizon, this company is certainly one to watch as it continues to evolve and expand its reach across industries.