Google and Currys PC World meet again. Following a partnership in 2011, when Google partnered with Currys PC World to launch a pop-up store for its Chromebook brand at the Tottenham Court Road branch, Google today opens the doors of it‘s world-first “shop in shop”.
Again in the renowned technology hub of London‘s Tottenham Court Road, the “shop in shop”, that‘s the Google shop to customers, stands at 915 sq ft and will give customers the chance to sample Google‘s offering of Android phones and tablets, Chromebook laptops and Chromecasts, as well as learn about how they work together to make users‘ lives as seamless as possible.
In addition, visitors will have the chance to play with Google‘s software tools and apps in a unique way, with installations including an immersive surround screen installation called “Portal”, where users can “fly” through any part of the planet through Google Earth; a Doodle Wall for budding graffiti artists to use digital spray cans to paint their own take on Google‘s iconic logo (which can then be shared on social media); and a Chromecast Pod where customers can enjoy Google Play Movies, YouTube and more, cast through a Chromecast dongle that converts any TV into a smart TV.
The Google shop intends to host regular classes and events for the public, which will range from simply learning how devices work and to how to keep secure online, to understanding how different devices come together to enable a more connected lifestyle. “Virtual Space Camps” will be available to teach children the basics of coding and teachers will be invited to “Open House” events, to keep up to speed on the free educational tools on offer from Google.
James Elias, UK Marketing Director at Google said:
“We‘re incredibly excited to launch this space – the first of its kind anywhere in the world – in London with Currys PC World.
The pace of innovation of the devices we all use is incredible, yet the way we buy them has remained the same for years. With the Google shop, we want to offer people a place where they can play, experiment and learn about all of what Google has to offer; from an incredible range of devices to a totally-connected, seamless online life.
We think it‘s a genuinely unique try-before-you-buy experience.”
Ainsley Sykes, Senior Project Manager for Currys PC World, added:
“We are delighted to partner with Google. This will be a new and innovative way for customers to engage in store, interacting with the immersive technology as well as having fun while learning. Google experts will be on hand to maximise the experience for users and provide help and support around the Google eco-system. This space compliments the interactive and informative environment we aim to create for customers visiting all of our stores.” . Google Shop will be housed at Currys PC World, 145-149 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7NE. It‘s the first Google Shop experience Google has opened anywhere in the world and there are plans to open two more later this year, in Currys PC World‘s Fulham and Thurrock Megastores.
