Build Apps Linked to Times Square!
Now, for the first time, your app can link directly to 19,000 square feet of LED screens in Times Square with one AJAX call. What makes this possible is a new API created by R/GA in collaboration with TS2 the Thomson-Reuters/NASDAQ alliance. This simple collection of methods (code named Pomegranate) enables apps to push text and images to fourteen skyscraper sized displays at the cross roads of the world. Currently Pomegranate is in field trials with a small number of developers. Soon the API will be ready for all. Send us an email and we’ll reach out as soon as we’re ready to invite more people.
The API is free, however the sign schedule is typically filled with paid ad campaigns. Going forward TS2 will make certain slots available at no cost for registered developers on an experimental basis. Developers working on behalf of brands that have purchased time blocks will have a special campaign resources available.
Pomegranate implements the OData standard, which makes it easy to integrate methods into your website, Android/IPhone app, Twitter/Facebook app and other platforms. It’s been field tested on several live Times Square campaigns and performed well.
When it comes to moderation, we’ve taken a two pronged approach: there’s an approval tool for apps that require it, and a direct link for trusted content. It’s a grand experiment and the hope is this new API will take Times Square to new levels with inspiring data visualization and spectacular mobile, and social interaction.
More info here: pomegranate.timessquare2.com
