NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--WIRED today announced that the first-ever magazine advertisement utilizing Near Field Communication (NFC) technology will appear in its April issue (on newsstands 3/20). Readers who own NFC-enabled Android smartphones can launch a mobile website allowing them to test-drive the new Lexus Enform with Safety Connect, Lexus’ in-car navigation and information service by simply placing their phone near the ad. Once the NFC advertisement is activated, the user can explore the mobile website’s interactive videos that demonstrate Enform’s capabilities.
“WIRED introducing the first NFC-enabled ad could only be made possible by bringing together the creative minds at Lexus with our reputation for pushing the envelope with emerging technologies and ideas,” said WIRED VP and Publisher Howard Mittman. “The WIRED world moves at an extraordinary speed, and this shows how we continue to work with our partners to ensure we all remain on the cutting edge.”
NFC chip technology continues to develop in smartphones allowing two-way communication between chip-enabled devices. The technology has most recently been used in developing payment systems and for location-based check in applications. This marks the first time the technology has been mass-produced in a magazine advertisement.
The advertisement for the all-new 2013 Lexus GS is part of a comprehensive marketing effort for the Lexus Enform with Safety Connect system which features voice-enabled apps allowing users to perform local searches with Bing, make restaurant reservations through OpenTable, and purchase movie tickets via MovieTickets.com.
Users also have the ability to check in with Facebook Places and search for business, shopping, restaurant and entertainment reviews on Yelp. Music lovers can tap into Internet radio with Pandora® and iHeartRadio. The system is updatable and upgradeable through over-the-air downloads, so new apps and content can be readily added.
ABOUT LEXUS
Since its debut in 1989, Lexus has earned a reputation for high-quality products and exemplary customer service from its 229 dealers. Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader, offering four hybrids that provide the best in innovative technology and first-class luxury. When it began, Lexus offered two models of vehicles. Now, more than 20 years later, Lexus offers variations of 10 vehicles, from the sporty CT 200h hybrid to the V10 supercar, the LFA.