We're all familiar with cookies – files that track us online, showering us with personalised ads. Brands love them and now shopping centres want to adopt them in an attempt to stay relevant in the age of e-commerce. But can the Physical Cookie really sweeten our offline shopping experience?

Some argue that iBeacon has the potential to completely change the way we interact with environments, from retail outlets to museums – and others even claim that it could “change the world forever”. But what makes it so special?

The Shout app gives New Yorkers access to sought-after event tickets and restaurant bookings without the hassle of waiting. People can buy and sell reservations for a fee agreed by both parties. They can even swap spots whilst waiting in line, communicating via the app.

Eating out is no longer just about food and drink. Innovations from apps that trace ingredients to fast-track ordering are shaping service expectations. But can too much seem gimmicky? And should restaurants concentrate on mastering quality ingredients rather than the latest tech?