Google Goes Analog with London Store

The in-store shop offers customers the chance to sample Google’s range of devices including Android phones and tablets, Chromebook laptops and Chromecast.

Visitors can also play with Google’s software tools and apps with via activations such as the surround-screen installation Portal, that lets users “fly” through any part of the planet via Google Earth; a Doodle Wall where budding graffiti artists can use digital spray cans to paint their own take on Google’s logo; and a Chromecast Pod that features Google Play movies, YouTube content and more.

The storefront will be manned by Google experts to provide help and support around the tech company's ecosystem, and eventually the Google Shop will host classes on topics such as online security, device training and more, as well as events. Virtual Space Camps will also be offered that teach children

“We’re incredibly excited to launch this space–the first of its kind anywhere in the world–in London with Currys PC World," says James Elias, head, U.K. marketing, Google. “The pace of innovation of the devices we all use is incredible, yet the way we buy them has remained the same for years. With the Google Shop, we want to offer people a place where they can play, experiment and learn about all of what Google has to offer, from an incredible range of devices to a totally connected, seamless online life. We think it’s a genuinely unique try-before-you-buy experience.”