VERIZON TECHXPERTS
Techxperts, a clever play on ‘tech’ and ‘experts,’ is a Verizon YouTube series. Each episode showcases innovative ways to use everyday technology, featuring actual Verizon employees who share their unique tech ‘hacks.’ Filmed during the COVID-19 pandemic, some episodes were produced under the constraints of social distancing, adding a layer of complexity yet underscoring the series’ theme of technological adaptability. The series not only educates but also inspires viewers by demonstrating the resourcefulness and versatility of common home tech, presented through engaging and informative narratives.
AGENCY
R/GA, New York
BRAND
Verizon
CATEGORY
Augmented Reality
MY ROLE
I played a key role in the Verizon Techxperts project at R/GA, where I was responsible for integrating interactive AR solutions into the campaign. As part of this initiative, I contributed to two episodes of Verizon Techxperts—technology enthusiasts sharing fresh perspectives and solving common “How-To” challenges.
Using Spark AR Studio, I developed augmented reality filters that allowed users to interact with the campaign in a dynamic and engaging way. Additionally, I created a comprehensive AR toolkit exclusively for Verizon users. This toolkit served as a downloadable template, enabling users to design their own personalized Instagram filters. By incorporating pre-built assets and offering customization options for text, logos, and images, I made it simple for users to explore AR design while connecting with Verizon’s tech-forward messaging.
In one episode, I collaborated with Cynthia Leu, a Verizon Ambassador, powerlifter, and fashion entrepreneur. She guided viewers on how to create custom digital accessories for Instagram, and I ensured her tutorials translated seamlessly into functional, user-friendly AR filters. The end result was a highly engaging and practical experience for Verizon’s audience.
Techxpert Cynthia Leu is a Verizon Ambassador, powerlifter, and budding fashion entrepreneur.
She’s bringing all of those talents together to show you how to make custom digital accessories for Instagram using Spark AR Studio.
She’ll teach you how to tailor the digital accessories below to create custom face filters to use on Instagram. Add your own text, logos, and favorite images to accessories that you can sport digitally.
Download your customizable digital accessory pack here with step by step instructions: https://vz.to/2O7nUK1
Techxperts Steps:
● Open the glasses or hat from the starter pack.
● To change the color of your object, click on “simulate touch” and click on “your object”.
● To change the text or add your logo: Open “Accessories” (Starter Pack) / “Glasses” (or Hat) / “frameText1.psd”.
● After editing, go to File / Save As. In the “Save As” window, Save the file as “frame_text.png” in the “Accessories” (Starter Pack) / Hat / Texture . *Make sure the file type is “.png” and you replace it with the current “frame_text.png”.
● To view the filter on your mobile device, click on the “Test on device” / “Send to App” / “Send”. ● You will receive a pop-up notification from Instagram to test your filter. Tapping on the notification will open your Instagram camera with your filter loaded.
Techxpert Oscar Martinez is an Associate Account Director at Verizon, a tech lover, and the ultimate game night host.
Watch as he joins Director, Local Area Comms, and fellow Techxpert Steve Van Dinter and friends to test out what things (other than faces) the filters can work on, and turn it into a drawing challenge.
He’ll teach you a completely new game you can play with your friends at your next game night.
Techxperts Steps:
● Give everyone pencils and paper.
● Tell everyone to draw a face.
● Add a twist: this game gets more fun when there’s a time limit, or people have to draw themselves, or each other.
● Whoever can hold a face filter over their drawing first wins!
CREDITS
Creative Technologist: Paras Juneja
Creative technologist: Sukratti Jain