Messaging app Line is opening a Times Square flagship store and making a line of AI speakers akin to Amazon Echo—all to “woo trendy [M]illennials.” The app has seen the most success in Japan and southeast Asia, and hopes that having a store in the tourist hot-spot “makes it easier for [them] to expand globally.” NYC themed products featuring its signature Line Friends characters will cater to young customers IRL, while the addition of quirky AI speakers (one even lets you Facetime with a character) will take on tech.

Messaging app Line is opening a Times Square flagship store and making a line of AI speakers akin to Amazon Echo—all to “woo trendy [M]illennials.” The app has seen the most success in Japan and southeast Asia, and hopes that having a store in the tourist hot-spot “makes it easier for [them] to expand globally.” NYC themed products featuring its signature Line Friends characters will cater to young customers IRL, while the addition of quirky AI speakers (one even lets you Facetime with a character) will take on tech. (Fast Company)