Meet Ava, the "latest and greatest in next-generation public advertising technology." Yesterday the Port Authority unveiled a new helpful hologram intended to help travelers at information kiosks in all three major NYC airports. Here's video of the so-called "avatar" in action—created by Cyberdyne SystemsAirportOne, the eerily lifelike Ava insists, "I'm so versatile, I can be used for just about anything":
"I can say what you want, dress the way you want, and be just about anything you want me to be," Ava tells us. "I can advertise products, promotions... I can even provide instructions and give directions. Even better, it won't be long before I can answer questions!" Port Authority Executive Director Pat Foye tells Transportation Nation the machines "are meant to supplement the airport’s 350 flesh-and-blood customer representatives, who will soon be joined by 70 new hires."
For now, Ava is not yet interactive and can't answer specific questions—she gives the same creepy smile to every passerby, while providing info about restroom locations, flight connections, and shuttle service. According to the Post, the Port Authority is renting the avatars on a trial basis for about $180,000 for six months, or when they become self-aware and take over the Cinnabons. Money well spent!
