Tech firm breaks into US market with app launch
ACOUNTY Durham immersive technology company has broken into the US after securing a deal to launch a mobile app for a zoo in California.
Newton Aycliffe software specialists n-gage.io was launched two years focusing on tech to to transform how customers experience entertainment, sport, visitor attractions, hospitality and retail.
The firm has now secured its first major US contract with the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in California, which has launched a new mobile app to boost visitor experiences.
Based in Palm Desert, the zoo welcomes over 600,000 visitors each year to see more than 150 species of animal spread across its 1,200-acre site. The attraction is dedicated to the preservation of world deserts and wildlife, and is ranked as one of the 26 best zoos in the US by the US News and World Report for its 500-plus animals, and 52 gardens with 1,200 plant species.
Now the attraction, which work with 70 partners around the world, is helping guests get the best from their trip, with a platform to improve communication, navigation, conservation education and accessibility.
Bryan Hoare, CEO of n-gage.io, said: “We’re delighted to secure our first US contract with The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens who chose our powerful attraction management software and highly customisable mobile app following a rigorous selection process.
“The Zoo and Gardens are renowned for their work around the world, contributing to wildlife conservation for over half a century. We’re proud to build on this legacy and provide their visitors with a digital mobile pocket guide that enhances their visit and experiences, and we’re actively looking to help more zoos, wildlife parks and other attractions across the US to transform their approach to digital engagement.”
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens uses the app to provide visitors with improved navigation around habitats, gardens, and other points of interest using n-gage.io’s innovative wayfinding solution, which is optimised for on and offline use.
The team have also introduced an in-app trails feature, creating experiences around both the zoo and gardens.
Allison Krupp, vice president of marketing and communications at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, said: “We’re excited to launch this new app and offer our visitors an enhanced experience. We’re always looking for new ways to innovate and enhance our visitor experience. In n-gage.io we found a UK team of dedicated and innovative professionals who have developed a software platform and highly customisable mobile visitor app packed with features that we believe is a game changer for our industry.
“The app is now playing a major role in helping us to achieve our goal of continuing to inspire current and future generations around the importance of conservation. Additionally, we appreciate the multi- lingual features for our global tourism visitors.”