Technology pervades all parts of modern life, and constant advancements within the field mean that it’s hard to keep up with the latest gadgets, trends and processes that are being implemented in the world around us. When you look at your work-life balance, it’s clear to see that both sides are being weighed considerably down by new, exciting and disrupting technology.
The classic ‘night out’ is for many the cornerstone of a quintessential British week – something that is looked forward to and revered from Monday morning right through the week. Yet nights out today have changed dramatically over recent times thanks to technology, and the weekend warriors need to brace themselves for even more changes, as tech companies look to enhance punters’ enjoyment beyond current standards.
Speed and convenience
The main improvements have a frictionless customer experience at their core. On any given night out, the squad will be faced with frequent team talks to decide where to go and what to do, followed by queues, lost signal and lost friends.
These problems have already been addressed by ticketing and travel planning apps such as DesignMyNight and FindMyFriends, as well as contactless payments and loyalty apps from different establishments with offers, information and table service solutions.
In the near future, expect to see apps which, similarly to how travel apps can help you avoid traffic, will help you avoid queues for bars, clubs and restaurants. Additionally, with advances in artificial intelligence coming thick and fast, we may see drones making cocktails and waiting tables, driverless cars providing our lifts home, and waiters serving us genetically-engineered food and drink.
A truly sensory experience
Emotional and sensory delight is being targeted increasingly by artisan mixologists who want their customers to enjoy a night that will stick long in the memory; with improved technological tools to blend drinks together, they can perfectly match a person’s mood. Additionally, bars and restaurants have begun to engineer their space – maximising visual and aural cues, and releasing scents into the air to enhance the taste of drinks and food.
Virtual reality is also playing a big part, with fantasy, quest and adventure scenario games offering a new type of night out.
Disco-tech
From leaving home to getting back, and everything in between, technology will keep making the UX of nights out better and better. Tech companies are true pioneers when it comes to providing the most sensory, convenient and enjoyable night out for thrill-seekers everywhere.
