Digital signage and LED screens have already reshaped the way that brands connect with audiences, from retail and hospitality to offices, stadiums and events centres. The technology enables traditional static signage to be replaced with ultra-bright screens that are highly visible whatever the external lighting conditions.
The content can be updated regularly to reflect changes in scheduled events, weather conditions, or even the time of day. However, forward thinking businesses now expect even more from their digital signage and screens. Here’s a look at the latest trends that are continuing to improve customer experience and drive brand identity.
Custom screens for immersive brand storytelling
The days of simply installing a one-size-fits-all flat LED screen on a wall are gone: brands are now commissioning custom LED display solutions to perfectly match the purpose and environment. For example, curved, transparent or column-wrapped screens can be integrated in unique architectural spaces to create a seamless brand experience.
This is ideal for high-end retail environments, backdrops for film or TV sets, and hospitality venues.
Interactive displays to boost engagement
People now expect their tech to be interactive, and LED screens are no exception. For example, touch enabled digital displays are now the norm in museum exhibitions and reception areas, allowing visitors to browse through multiple information sources at their own pace.
In hospitality and retail environments, QR codes or even gesture-controlled installations can be used to increase customer engagement and drive faster interactions. This can free up staff for other duties, reduce inaccuracies and boost customer satisfaction and turnover.
Transparent screens for stylish interiors
When style and sophistication are just as important as communication, transparent screens are the perfect solution. They allow digital images and dynamic content to be layered onto an almost invisible backdrop, so that light and background space can filter through.
This is ideal for shop window displays to allow shoppers to see into the store, as well as be drawn to eye-catching floating images and animations. It also increases the amount of natural light in the interior, creating a softer and more welcoming space and reducing the need for artificial lighting, helping to lower energy bills.
Transparent LED screens are also a growing trend in bars and nightclubs, allowing for striking visual impact while maintaining a sense of openness.
Smart and adaptive content
Digital signage allows users to pre-programme content and regularly refresh details to keep up with the latest events. Now, the next generation of technology can be integrated with live data to automatically update sports scores, news events, or social media feeds. This means that the audience will have up-to-the minute information without the need for manual updates.
AI can also be used to generate content that is responsive to external cues, such as running ads for iced drinks or sunscreen on warm days, and hot drinks on cold days. It can even target specific audiences by using facial recognition technology to run ads based on age or gender. This keeps the content relevant and engaging and increases return on investment.
LED video walls as purely decorative features
Brands are moving away from using LED displays purely for the purposes of advertising or conveying information. They are now being used purely for the aesthetic impact, to create digital decorations or even art installations. The flexible screens, ultra-bright colours and high definition can be used to create a range of moods and atmospheric effects.
The screens can also be adapted to hybrid spaces that have multiple uses. For example, in corporate settings, the content can be switched between showcasing the brands to hosting virtual meetings or displaying performance stats.
In hotels, LED screens can be used for general welcoming and wayfinding purposes during the daytime, and for ambient decorations or event backdrops at night.
So, there you have it: digital screens can now do much more than display images and videos. Across retail, hospitality, events venues and corporate spaces, they are being used in creative and innovative ways to take businesses into the future with style and confidence.