WestJet unveiled an AI-generated prank to celebrate April Fools’ Day, and to advertise flying off for a vacation on one of its flights.
The April 1 prank sees WestJet launch MemorEase, a headset that implants AI-generated vacation memories into users’ brains. The fake ad, which promotes a new way to travel when life gets too busy, is meant to remind viewers that nothing can replace a real vacation.
The video for the newly imagined product drives people to a landing page on WestJet’s website where they can find a “Keep It Real Sale,” which offers exclusive discounts on more than 50 beach destinations through WestJet.
“We know how busy Canadians are, and that sometimes – despite best intentions – getting away for a vacation can be tough,” says WestJet director of marketing Jennifer Callegaro. “With MemorEase, Canadians won’t have to choose between work obligations and family memories. Now, everyone – no matter how busy – can enjoy a vacation they’ll never forget.”
The idea for MemorEase was developed with WestJet’s in-house agency Oliver, from insight that Canadians often prioritize work over taking a vacation. MemorEase was also inspired by the rise that AI has seen in popular culture and technology in the past year, with attempts to use it as a solution to make people’s lives easier.
