Digi hosted its first ever Digital Day for employees by inviting partners to provide showcases and talks about the future of technology. The event itself felt a little like a small scale futurism fair; complete with robots, drones, and eccentric futurists.
The purpose of the Digi’s Digital Day was to showcase the company’s new direction and transformation to its employees. Which explains why its internal event had a sort of carnival atmosphere to it. Although, a large portion of the show itself was dedicated to Digi products. Including the reopening of its flagship store.
Part of Digi’s new direction lies in how its stores will operate. The telco has begun transforming the customer interaction in these stores; turning them into what it calls a “digital experience”. This generally means that there will be more space for hands on demos with devices; but also extends to how the staff interact with customers. For instance, Digi is doing away with paperwork and traditional counter setups for its stores.
On the most futuristic side, Digi invited experts like Dr Adrian Cheok, Director of the Imagineering Institute, who spoke about using technology to interact with more than just the human senses of sight and sound. These included demonstrations of devices that allow people to send virtual hugs and a device to affect one’s sense of taste. Also present was Mohd Izmir Yamin, who spoke about developing Malaysia’s space programme.
In addition to all this, there were demos for 3D printers, VR headsets, and the Pepper robot (who still hasn’t picked up much English). A pair of Tesla Model S’ were also present; with some lucky Digi employees getting the chance to take a ride in them. Interestingly, Digi is one of the companies in talks with Tesla to provide a data connection for the car’s telemetrics system. There’s no concrete plans yet, as Tesla is not directly importing vehicles here, but Digi looks to be getting ahead of the game with electric vehicles.
As it stands, the Digi Digital Day isn’t open to the public; which is a shame. However, the company doesn’t even know if it is going to hold more of these events yet. Signs point to this being turned into an annual event – hopefully one that is open to everyone.
