Drink
machines sure have come a long way over the years. Not to be outdone by their innovative counterparts at the soda fountain, modern vending units use cutting-edge technology and outside-the-box creativity to dispense more than drinks
– entertaining, engaging and refreshing consumers with every transaction. Here are a dozen examples of
interactive
1. Happiness Strikes
In 2010, a Coca-Cola vending machine delivered “doses” of happiness – everything from fresh flowers to pizza – to unsuspecting students on a college campus in New York. The hit viral video inspired dozens of similar stunts around the world and left Coke fans forever wondering, “Where Will Happiness Strike Next?”
2. Bust a Move!
This machine in South Korea coaxed people to mimic the
dance moves of popular band 2 PM.
Using Microsoft Kinect technology, the machine registered the dancers’ steps. The more moves they copied correctly, the more
3.
Coke Zero challenged train passengers in Antwerp, Belgium, to “unlock their inner 007” and win exclusive tickets to the James Bond movie Skyfall. But the passes weren't free. Commuters had to go the extra mile and complete a series of Bond-esque challenges in less than 70 seconds.
4. Small World Machines
High-tech vending machines installed in malls in Lahore, Pakistan and New Delhi, India – two cities separated by only
325 miles, but seemingly worlds apart due to decades of political tension –
invited shoppers to set aside their differences and share a simple moment over
a Coke.
5. Hugs = Happiness
Vending machines need love, too. This unit at the National University of Singapore was programmed to dispense a Coke when someone gave it a hug. On a similar note, a special machine in Puerto Rico accepted smiles as currency this summer, rewarding
consumers who shared their inner effervescence with an ice-cold
Coca-Cola. Take a look.
6. The Heat is On
For the past two summers, Limon & Nada vending machines at select water and amusement parks in Spain have adjusted the
price of the thirst-quenching lemonade depending on the outside temperature. When the mercury rose, the price dropped. Learn more.

7. 'Tis the Season for Song
Spreading the holiday spirit, one note at a time. This festive machine rewarded students at the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden, with a Coke when they sang their favorite Christmas carol.
8. Hey Pal, Need a Lift?
To celebrate International Friendship Day,
9. Roses are (Coke) Red
On Valentine's Day 2012, this machine dispensed
10. Going for the Gold
To celebrate the 2012 Olympic Games
in London, this giant vending machine offered Great Britain a
11.
During the week leading up to Earth Hour 2012,
12. Buying the World a Coke
Google partnered with
COCA-COLA ON SOCIAL