The advantages of a web app for audio guides compared to mobile apps and rental devices
Audio guides are becoming increasingly popular in exhibitions because they provide context for the artworks and tell fascinating stories. Audio guides that run directly in a visitor’s mobile browser (so-called web apps) offer several advantages over rental devices or downloadable apps. Below, we explain the key differences and benefits.
1. Simplicity and user-friendliness compared to apps
Especiallywith audio guides, it’s a hassle for visitors to install a new app. This lowers the usage rate of audio guides, as apps require time and storage space. Apps can also lead to compatibility issues or installation errors. A web app in the browser, on the other hand, can be used in seconds by scanning a QR code.
2. Advantages & Effort Compared to Rental Devices
Web appsare available in unlimited numbers on any device with internet access, while rental devices are available only in limited quantities. With rental devices, you also have to manage distribution, return, hygiene, and charging—not to mention device malfunctions. Is the narrator’s voice barely audible in one ear due to the device’s noisy speaker? Do you need an introduction to operate the device? Not with the web app; here, visitors can use their own headphones or simply hold their smartphone to their ear to enjoy the tour in top quality.
3. Creating and Editing Audio Guide Content
Another advantageof audio guides via web apps is the ability to update content more easily. Since the content is stored in a web app, it can be brought up to date at any time with a single click, without having to update individual rental devices.
4. Modern, cost-effective, and sustainable
98%of people in Western Europe own a smartphone with a browser, across all age groups. This is why more and more institutions are switching to smartphones. Worn-out, outdated rental devices or laboriously installed apps are now a thing of the past. Since no extra devices need to be produced or individual apps developed, this saves resources from creation through to operation.
Summary
Overall,audio guides in web apps offer a more flexible and efficient alternative to rental devices or downloadable apps. On the one hand, they are easy and cost-effective for operators to use; on the other hand, visitors can use them on their own devices in just a few seconds, thereby enjoying a user-friendly experience.
