A Groundbreaking Partnership Comes to a Close

In a move that marks the end of an era, the Louvre has officially wrapped up its partnership with Nintendo, which began in 2012. This collaboration allowed the iconic museum in Paris to use Nintendo 3DS consoles, first launched in 2011, as innovative guides for visitors.

The Magic of the 3DS Experience

When the partnership kicked off, the Louvre was provided with 5,000 Nintendo 3DS units, available for rent at a small fee. These handheld devices transformed the way art lovers experienced the museum, featuring a multimedia library boasting access to over 700 masterpieces, complete with captivating images, videos, and immersive 3D models. With added geolocation technology, visitors could enjoy a personalized tour and delve deeper into the artworks, guided by more than 30 hours of audio commentary.

Riding the Wave of Technology

Back in 2012, smartphones were still climbing up the tech ladder, making the rental service a game-changer compared to the traditional audio guides. The collaboration was so successful that Nintendo even released a special version of the Louvre guide on a game cartridge, paving the way for art-loving gamers.

The Evolution of Technology and Visitor Preferences

However, the tides of technology shifted when the Nintendo Switch was introduced in 2017, leading to the eventual discontinuation of the 3DS in 2020. As smartphones became increasingly ubiquitous, visitors began favoring their personal devices for info on art and exhibitions, marking a significant change in how museums engage their audiences.

What's Next for the Louvre?

Though the Louvre has not yet announced a new system to replace the nostalgic 3DS guide, the art world is left buzzing with curiosity about what innovative technology will take its place. As museums continue to adapt and evolve, one can only wonder how the future will blend art and technology in captivating new ways.