How To Touch Hearts, Not Just Screens: Transforming SF Meetup With AR
Background
Creating Emotional Impact With AR Experiences
In the world of events, it's not just about what attendees see—it's about how you make them feel. Augmented Reality (AR) is your secret weapon to create unforgettable experiences that resonate long after the event ends.
Imagine:
- An AR-enhanced mirror where attendees see themselves transformed with superpowers and magical tools
- A location takeover that turns a city skyline into a branded spectacle, creating social media buzz
- AR merch that brings t-shirts and mugs to life with animated brand stories
- An AR hunt game that turns your event into an exciting treasure hunt
At Superside, we believe in drinking our own champagne, so we couldn't wait to use our own AR/3D services to create memorable experiences at our events.
Figma's 2024 Config event in San Francisco was the perfect opportunity. Phillip Maggs, our Director of Generative AI Excellence, took the stage to present our AI Services, and we organized Superside Connect, a vibrant meetup after Config's sessions for marketing and creative leaders to network.
THE BRIEF
Integrating AR to Showcase Superside's Creative Services
At Superside Connect, we wanted to make a lasting impression by incorporating AR into the event. The goal was simple: use AR filters to showcase our Ad Creative and Motion Design services in a fun, interactive way. Attendees would scan QR codes on venue screens, leading them to Instagram to experience our creative services firsthand.
Our guidance
With only two weeks to deliver, we assembled our world-class AR/3D team led by Immersive Design Creative Director Maryna Razakhatskaya. We broke the project down into three quick phases:
- Concept and wireframes: We developed ideas that visualized engaging user experiences and highlighted the core of our services.
- 3D Production and animation: The team swiftly created and animated the 2D and 3D assets, ensuring they captured the essence of each service.
- AR Development and testing: Finally, we brought the filters to life through AR animation, testing for a smooth, engaging user experience.
The woRK
Bringing Superside's Creativity to Life with AR Filters
Our venue was in the heart of downtown San Francisco, steps away from the Moscone Convention Center, where Figma's Config conference was happening. It was perfect. And it had just the right number of screens we needed to work our magic.
Even with the short timeframe, the team did not disappoint. We created two unique AR filters, each designed to showcase Superside's creativity in action.
Ad Creative Filter
Imagine this: text slides onto the screen, and suddenly, social media posts appear, floating and rotating around a statue. Each post invites you to tap and zoom in for a closer look, making the experience interactive and fun.
Motion Design Filter
Here, it starts with simple text that materializes out of nowhere. Then, curved lines and assets begin to grow and move, mimicking the dynamic process of motion design in real time. It's like watching creativity come to life right before you.
The filters were designed to give attendees a taste of what Superside can do—transforming something static into a vibrant, interactive experience.
THE IMPACT
How AR Engagement Elevated Superside Connect
Superside Connect was a smash hit! The turnout was so strong we had to turn people away at the door. While not everyone came knowing they'd experience AR, one thing was clear: engagement was off the charts. Attendees were fully immersed in the AR filters—capturing, sharing, and interacting throughout the event. Here are some key highlights:
Creative speed
From concept to AR animation in just two weeks—talk about getting creative done fast!
Enhanced engagement
50% of attendees interacted with at least one AR filter, spending an average of 4-5 minutes exploring the experience. Also, 14% of attendees captured and shared photos or videos, helping to amplify the event's reach on social media.
Positive feedback
Attendees raved about the experience, praising how immersive and innovative it felt.
At Superside, we don't just talk about innovation—we bring it to life. Superside Connect is a prime example of what's possible when creativity and technology come together.
Thank you so so so so so much team for working on this and getting it ready for the event. I prompted loads of ppl to check it out and they were LOVING it! Thought it was very cool. Thanks for all the work on it.
So, how will AR amplify your next event into something unforgettable?