Toys 'R' Us app turns stores into virtual playground

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Tuesday, October 3, 2017
Toys R Us trying something new at stores
Toys 'R' Us is debuting augmenting reality to encourage people to shop at their stores rather than online.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Bankrupt Toys "R" Us is trying something new in stores.

The toy store is debuting augmented reality to encourage people to shop at their local stores rather than online.

Shoppers can use their smartphone to get greetings from Geoffrey the Giraffe as well as spot flashing icons and stickers on the floor.

Toys will also come to life. Point the app at star icons in the store and it turns their experience into a virtual playground.

The experience goes nationwide on Oct. 21.

Toys "R" Us filed for bankruptcy in mid-September.

It emphasized that its approximately 1,600 locations will remain open and will continue to work with suppliers and sell merchandise.

There are 15 Toys"R"US and Babies"R"Us stores located in the Houston area.

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