Austin Texas
Bing search engine also had a lot adjacent to the Nike lot, where they were demonstrating RFID wristband technology. There were comfortable couches, food trucks, a full bar, and a place to recharge your mobile devices. I was most impressed by a demonstration of the new Gopago app, that allows you to order remotely from a food truck without waiting in line. The app currently works in the Bay Area of California, but should be coming to a city near you soon.
Scenes from downtown Austin during SXSW Interactive, March 12, 2012
Nike was a big player at this year’s SXSW, sponsoring big events during both the Interactive and Music conferences within the week, and promoting their new Fuel Band wristbands that can measure steps taken, calories burned, and how much of one’s exercise goals he or she has accomplished each day. One of the cooler Nike events was a lot with a basketball court and skateboard ramp, but there were also parties and concerts.
Austin is apparently far south enough to have a long outdoor season, so one of the cooler features of Austin nightclubs is their outdoor rooftop decks. What a place to party!
Scenes from downtown Austin, SXSW Interactive, Monday, March 12, 2012
The HootSuite owl pays a visit to the Foursquare court in Austin at South By Southwest Interactive, Monday, March 12, 2012
Scenes around the Austin Convention Center during the South By Southwest Interactive, Monday, March 12, 2012
For the last two years, CNN has taken over Max’s Wine Dive in Austin during South By Southwest, and has converted it into the CNN Grill. Unfortunately, I’ve never been able to eat there, as it seems to be invitation only.
The intersection of 6th and Lamar is one of the most important spots during South By Southwest in Austin. For one thing, it’s the site of Waterloo Records, one of the best record stores in the country. The store sponsors an outdoor stage in its parking lot during the festival. Next door is the 24 Diner restaurant, which never closes. Across the street are the Book People, Austin’s best bookstore, and the flagship location of Whole Foods Market. Behind Waterloo and in the same building are Snap Kitchens and Amy’s Ice Cream. Needless to say, the area stays crowded during SXSW.