Ever notice how 30 seconds can seem like an eternity when you’re riding in an elevator with a group of strangers? It’s not really enough time to pull out a newspaper, so you probably find yourself either staring up at the slowly ascending floor numbers or scrutinizing the latest scuff marks on your shoes — anything to avoid eye contact with other passengers.
Such awkward situations will soon be a thing of the past if Captivate Network has its way. The Westford, Mass.-based company is busy deploying its information display screens in elevators throughout Boston, Chicago, New York City and Stamford, Conn. Each one delivers the latest Internet-fed news headlines, stock reports, traffic conditions, weather and sports updates to elevator passengers via 10- or 12-inch terminal screens. Featured Web content providers include Accuweather, The New York Times, Reuters and Smart Traveler.
Currently, Captivate has installed the screens in about 36 buildings so far, for a total of about 400 elevators. Next, Captivate plans to bring its screens to Los Angeles, San Francisco and Dallas, followed by Houston, Atlanta and Washington, D.C. (The company has not announced plans to install the screens in Canadian elevators, but it may be only a matter of time.)
With weather and news information right in front of you during your elevator ride, you may even be inspired to chat with fellow passengers. Just be sure you don’t miss your floor…
For more information, visit www.captivatenetwork.com.