App turns print ads into digital storefronts

Israel-based Pounce uses image recognition to enable users to instantly buy items by scanning the page of a magazine or catalog.

Platforms such as QThru have already demonstrated how QR code scanning can help make the retail process more convenient in-store. Now Pounce is doing a similar thing with image recognition for catalogs and print material, enabling users to instantly buy items by scanning pictures on the page.

Businesses who send out print material such as ads, catalogs or magazines can configure the collateral to work with Pounce, setting links for each individual product image. When consumers then scan the item they are interested in with the Pounce app, they are immediately taken through to a screen with extra information about the product, along with a one-click option to buy. Having already set up their credit card and delivery details securely through the app, they simply confirm that they want to complete the purchase and their data is sent to the merchant. The app directs consumers more quickly between offline literature and the online ordering process, while also avoiding lengthy checkouts. Businesses can also take advantage of rich data about their print campaigns.

Pounce is free to download from the App Store. Are there other ways to give print promotions a digital edge?

Spotted by Murray Orange, written by Springwise