Courier firm Hermes has launched Hermes Play, which enables people sending parcels to record and attach personal videos to the parcels via the Hermes Send app, using augmented reality. 

To use the service, which was originally announced last February for launch by the end of 2019, customers pre-record a personal message, which is uploaded via the Hermes Send app. A 2D barcode is then created and added to the parcel label. The parcel recipient is then invited to scan the code and watch the video message on their phone or tablet. The AR tech brings brings the parcel to life, the video playing on top of the parcel itself. Videos will be saved for a maximum of 30 days.

Hermes Play is free for a limited time, and compatible with iOS and Android and devices. Later this year, it will be rolled out to Hermes’ retail clients, who will be able to use it to further personalise their service to consumers, with the ability to share a variety of videos, including promotions or DIY instructions for products.

“Hermes Play is a unique, fantastic service that can be used by consumers to send messages to family and friends or by businesses for a more commercially-focussed approach,” said Hermes UK CIO, Chris Ashworth. “At Hermes this year, our mission is to make parcels even more personal, and our digital teams have been working hard to create new and exciting initiatives. It’s designed to create a personal connection and make the experience of sending and receiving a parcel just that little bit more special.”