Pepsi have unveiled a prototype vending machine that lets people send drinks to their friends. With the new machines, people can type in their friends mobile phone number into a keypad, along with a personal message.
Their friend will receive a personalised voucher code, by text message, which, when entered into a compatible vending machine will provide them with a cool refreshing beverage / can of sugared water (delete as applicable).
Pepsi’s approach is an interesting take on social sharing; relying on a more traditional method of communication (SMS) and linking social sharing to physical products. This is a similar approach to that taken by o2 and the Co-Op with their recent location-based promotion.
Below is a a Pepsi promotional video showing how the system works. Pepsi plan on introducing the vending machines at trial locations later this year.