Covent Garden offers augmented reality gift for Christmas shoppers

London’s Covent Garden shopping district is showcasing what it claims to be the largest showcase of augmented reality (AR) technology attempted in one location, with Christmas shoppers offered exclusive offers, gift guides and immersive shopping experiences.

More than 140 stores and restaurants are participating in the project over the next six weeks in partnership with AR app provider Blippar.

As well as being able to meet Santa in an interactive neighbourhood grotto and embark on an AR treasure hunt to catch reindeers hidden around the UK capital’s distinct retail district, shoppers will be able to unlock exclusive offers from an AR Christmas tree that can only be unlocked through the Blippar app — available on iOS and Android.