• Tellme turns any device into a free digital guide

• Visitors can simply point their phones at exhibits to access engaging facts and stories  

• They can also ask questions and receive answers in real time using the chat function.  

Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum, has launched a new AI-powered digital guide to help visitors explore the museum in a more interactive and personalised way.

The guide, Tellme, which is available free of charge, is accessed through a smartphone browser with no download required. Visitors can simply point their phones at exhibits and AI brings them to life.

It recognises what is being viewed and provides engaging facts and stories about the object. Visitors can also ask questions and receive answers in real time using the chat function.  

Tellme also introduces optional rewards to encourage exploration to further enhance the visitor experience.  

The guide has been developed in collaboration with software development company Tellme, which specialises in reimagining how people experience visitor attractions.

Kingston Myles, director of enterprise and innovation at Birmingham Museums Trust, said:

“We are always looking for new ways to help visitors connect more deeply with our collections.  

“This new digital guide offers an exciting and accessible way for people to explore Thinktank, giving them the freedom to discover stories in a way that suits their interests and pace.

“Early feedback has shown strong uptake and engagement, with visitors responding positively to being able to explore the museum in a more flexible and conversational way.”

Eamon Byrne, founder of Tellme, said:  

“We are delighted to be working in partnership with Birmingham Museums Trust to introduce the Tellme platform to Thinktank.

“Over the past months the guide has been tested with visitors and we have worked closely with curatorial staff to ensure the experience is accurate, safe and aligned with the museum’s interpretation.”