Can you imagine a future where business cards have touchscreens like our phones?
How about GPS which allows you to book a taxi or even access real-time medical records?
It may be closer than you think, according to instantprint. The online print manufacturer researched cutting-edge tech and spoke with experts to ascertain just what may be possible in the business cards of the future.
The common theme was that physical cards would be the driver of new communication technologies: whether it’s a smart chip activating an immediate profile exchange on a website, or a business card set to remind customers of an upcoming boiler service date, everything starts from a printed card.
Interactive paper and GPS
Shaping a future where print is still highly valued may incorporate technology like interactive paper, as this allows the consumer to reap the benefits of what digital media provides – a reactive, visual and engaging experience.
In a recent article, the BBC discussed paper posters that play music via printed circuits made with conductive ink. This is a brilliant example as to how print may become more interactive to keep the digitally savvy consumer engaged.
Incorporating technology like interactive paper and GPS, would not only convey a more engaging idea to the business card, but will also be handy for the hectic lifestyle of an entrepreneur. Forgot your phone? Book your taxi on your business card, no problem.
Holographic push notifications
Holograms are no longer something we only see in Star Wars films; even the least digitally savvy person would be able to recognise hologram technology.
Therefore it’s not out of the question that holograms could become embedded within business cards for a more engaging experience soon.
A perfect example as to how holographic technology can be used in household items was illustrated this year when high-end camera maker RED claimed to be bringing out a smartphone which will incorporate a ‘holographic display’.
Just imagine: business cards with a holographic display. They would work perfectly to suit businesses that want to connect a product or service to a business card to give customers notifications.
For example, a boiler company could link their business cards to sync with a customer’s boiler at home and notify them when their service is due.
Holograms and GPS
GPS technology is already embedded into our mobile phones and is something which many people use daily to find their way to their next meeting or that all important conference.
Customers will be able to find your business quickly and easily with in-built GPS to take them to your exact location.
This would be especially useful if you’re based out of the city centre if many people complain that they find it hard to locate your business.
Joseph Flynt, who runs 3D printing website 3D Insider, said: ‘‘I think some business cards could be 3D printed in the future. This would make them extremely unique and completely customisable.
“This will become more likely as 3D printers become more common in people’s homes.’’
Touchscreens, GPS and push notifications
There was a time when touch screens seemed implausible, or just for the very rich and fortunate.
Now, many consumers view touch screen as an ordinary piece of technology which they’re familiar with from using their phone, laptop, or tablet.
We envision that this type of business card would be perfect for showcasing a product demo at events, or to ensure that customers will remember your product or service as they can watch it back on their business card later.
Telehealth
Leading a healthier lifestyle is becoming easier for people to achieve, even for a hectic entrepreneur, due to telehealth technology. We already see it in watches, built into our smartphones or available as downloadable apps.
Imagine Doctors who frequently hand out business cards. They may find telehealth technology an engaging way to raise awareness on the importance of carrying out frequent health checks.
In a recent article, ZDNet discussed a phone case that can read blood pressure with the touch of a finger. Maybe telehealth technology could be incorporated into print sooner than we think.