This is one of those catchy ideas that may never get past novelty stage, and probably never make a dime.
Then again, innovation has a funny way of spawning more innovation, often in unimaginable ways.
The latest fun idea is happening in New York, where one disruptor is actually fixing USB sticks into walls. That’s right, passersby will just see the stick popping out, and can plug and share content at will. The idea, called ‘Dead Drops’ and created by Aram Bartholl, is just getting started, and just a smattering of sticks are planted right now (see list below). The overall concept is to encourage sharing within public spaces, and fan the flames on anonymous, anarchic trading.
Bartholl is hoping this catches on, and encouraging similar ‘implants’ on deaddrops.com. Sounds fun, though use protection, son: who knows what’s lingering on those dirty sticks.
Some spots to check out…
87 3rd Avenue, Brooklyn, NY (Makerbot)
Empire Fulton Ferry Park, Brooklyn, NY (Dumbo)
235 Bowery, NY (New Museum)
Union Square, NY (Subway Station 14th St)
540 West 21st Street, NY (Eyebeam)