The pioneering Visualizer app launched by AkzoNobel's Decorative Paints business earlier this year has won a prestigious honor at the 2014 UK IT Industry Awards.

A world first in augmented reality technology, the free app enables users to see in real time what a room will look like in a wide range of different colors - before any paint is applied to the wall. The innovation beat seven other finalists in the Innovative Mobile App of the Year category.

"Color has the power to change people's lives and we're delighted to have been recognized for an innovation which is designed to give consumers and professionals more confidence and inspiration," said Corinne Avelines, Global Head of Digital & eCommerce at AkzoNobel Decorative Paints.

"The Visualizer gives people the freedom to experiment and make bolder choices and highlights how we are increasingly embracing digital innovations alongside our product innovations in order to solve problems for consumers and ultimately grow our business."

Marketed through the company's decorative paints brands (Dulux in the UK, Coral in Brazil and Flexa in the Netherlands, for example) the app was developed after talking to more than 5,000 customers, designers and painters.

The core innovation behind the Visualizer is the Computer Vision technology which enables the user to apply realistic virtual paint to their walls, in real-time, without affecting picture frames and other furniture. Compatible with both Android and iOS devices, it is currently available in 44 countries and will continue to be rolled out over the coming months.

"We're always looking for ways to share our global color expertise and encourage customers to express themselves through the use of color," added Avelines. "Enabling people to picture rooms before they paint them is not only fun, it's also a great way of combining digital technology with personal design vision."

The app was developed in partnership with String, Tessella and Webcredible, while the award was presented in recognition of the most effective and innovative use of collaborative technology.

To download the app, visit the Apple store or Google Play and search for Visualizer, plus the name of your local AkzoNobel paint brand.

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