Jacksonville Introduces Innovative Hologram to Welcome Travelers at Airport
Jacksonville, Fla. – The city has made an exciting leap into technology with the revealing of a high-tech welcome message from Mayor Donna Deegan on Thursday at the Jacksonville International Airport (JAX). This display marks Jacksonville as one of the first major cities in the U.S. to implement such advanced technology in a public setting.
An Innovative Welcome
The centerpiece of this initiative is a lifelike 3D hologram of Mayor Deegan, who extends a warm holiday greeting to travelers arriving in the city. The hologram is powered by cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technology, allowing the message to be delivered not just in English, but also translated into multiple languages including Spanish, French, German, and Japanese.
An Exciting Debut
“It’s incredibly exciting to debut this message at JAX, and just in time for the holidays,” said Deegan. “This continues the city of Jacksonville’s commitment to investing in cutting-edge technology that can be deployed in a myriad of ways to both improve communication and better the lives of our citizens.”
Realistic Technology
The hologram appears so realistic that it seems as if a person is physically present within the machine, which stands seven feet tall. This innovative display, created by the U.S. startup Proto, is not just a static presentation; it is interactive and capable of sending and receiving live feeds. Passengers arriving at JAX will be greeted with this engaging technology located just outside the airport security area.
Enhancing Travel Experience
Mark VanLoh, the CEO of the Jacksonville Aviation Authority, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative. “We are thrilled that JAX, in partnership with the city, will be one of the first airports in the nation to debut this amazing technology,” he stated. “We are proud of our reputation as one of the most welcoming airports in the United States, and the mayor’s new hologram is sure to surprise and delight travelers exploring our region whether they’re traveling here for the first time or coming home for the holidays.”
Beyond Just a Hologram
While the hologram delivers pre-recorded messages, the Proto technology can also facilitate live interactions, allowing participants to be “beamed in” in real-time from any camera or mobile phone to the Proto device from anywhere in the world. This versatile technology has already been applied by Fortune 500 companies, major league sports teams, and academic institutions, reflecting its broad appeal and utility.
Creating a Welcoming Environment
It’s important to clarify that although referred to as a hologram, the images displayed within the device are not true holograms. The technology employs clever tricks using shadows and reflections to give the illusion that a person is contained within the box. This creative approach enhances the viewer’s experience and makes the greeting feel personal and engaging.
A Commitment to Innovation
The Proto Box, notably sponsored by JAXEPICS, aligns with Jacksonville’s ongoing efforts to establish itself as the Small Business Capital Center of the South, all while modernizing its communication methods. The introduction of this holographic welcome is just one step in Jacksonville’s journey toward embracing and integrating innovative technology into everyday life.
This groundbreaking addition at Jacksonville International Airport showcases the city’s willingness to adapt and improve, promising a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers who visit this festive season.
