The future is coming. Whether we like it or not, humans are being replaced by technology. The Port Authority of New York City will be implementing these in the near future at select airports:

This makes sense in the areas of lower operating costs (not paying employees), ensured professionalism, and less stress on employers (they don’t have to listen to everyday employee issues). The possibilities for advertising are endless as well. Pretty exciting stuff.

Here is a “holographic avatar” in action:

Now it gets interesting. These psudeo-people sounded good in theory but can this really work? In a 45 second clip I felt like I was merely seeing the person who usually annoys me on the phone while I sit through automated telephone trees. What happens when the avatar deals with a disgruntled customer? She said “to the left” but is that her left or mine?

You can see where the technology could run into some obstacles. Overall I think that the possibilities far outweigh the negatives. Can’t wait to see what other industries can utilize these avatars (sporting events, concerts, corporate office greeters, etc). What do you think about the possibility of interacting with “robots” rather than humans? Where would you like to see these holographic avatars next?