Sony reinvents the Christmas tree using NFC and your smartphone

Just in time for Christmas, Sony has reinvented the Christmas tree so that it too fits into today's smartphone-centric lifestyle. No, this is not a virtual tree, but is actually a real live one outfitted with a smart tag. This allows you to change the color of the lights on the tree by using an app downloaded on your phone. Speakers hidden inside the tree can play music also controlled by you, using the same app.

While it certainly sounds like a thoroughly modern Christmas experience, the truth is that you cannot buy this tree anywhere. But if you live in the U.K., you can win it as part of the Japanese OEM's Facebook contest,  #UpgradeMyTree. Besides the tree, you can win a Sony Xperia Z and a number of Bluetooth connected accessories. To enter the contest, first you must live in the U.K. (we heard that groan) and give Sony your best sob story as to why you must win this 2-foot NFC tree.

Using social media (Twitter, Facebook, Vine or Instagram) you can upload your sad tale of a tree-less Christmas and your son Tiny Tim's crutches and, well, whatever you think will melt those cold hearted Sony judges. Use the hashtag #UpgradeMyTree. Submissions are allowed through December 18th at 18:00 GMT. Oh, you have to be 16 or older to enter. Good luck!



source: Sony via Pocketlint