The Ultimate Guide to Moving Cinema Seats 

About premium experiences

In an age where entertainment is abundant and where at-home streaming platforms are at their peak, it’s no surprise that people are looking for new ways to enhance their moviegoing experience. More and more, audiences are seeking immersive encounters that bring storytelling to new levels and give them an experience they can’t re-create at home. The good news is that theaters around the world have answered this call with a range of premium experiences designed to bring movie-watching to new levels of fun!

Premium experiences offered by movie theaters range from enhanced visual experiences (such as multi-wall screens), enhanced audio experiences (thanks to innovative speakers and new technology) as well as experiences that go beyond sight and sound by offering audiences seats that move during the movie.

These experiences exist to further immersive audiences into their movies and to captivate attention with enhanced storytelling!

What exactly are moving cinema seats?

Moving cinema seats—also known as motion seats—are just one of the premium experiences offered to moviegoers to enhance their movies. These seats are designed to move alongside the on-screen action, providing an interactive experience by engaging the viewers’ sense of touch.

Depending on the seats, they can move, vibrate, tilt, roll, or combine any number of these, all with the goal of providing a fully immersive   experience. For example, during a movie with a big car chase, the chairs can move in the same direction of the car, vibrate in a way that’s consistent with a car’s engine and tilt if it comes to a sudden halt! You can even feel different textures through moving seats; subtle nuances that tell you if a car is being driven on sand, concrete, grass or some other surface.

How do moving theater seats enhance the movie experience?

By offering guests a tactile dimension that traditional seating does not have, movies seen in motion seats come to life in a way that goes beyond just sight and sound. The new, engaging environment that moving cinema seats create plunges you into the heart of the action and makes you feel as though you’re part of the movie itself, as opposed to just being a passive viewer! For example, you’ll truly feel as though you’re in the cockpit alongside Tom Cruise in Top Gun: Maverick and feel like you’re diving through the ocean’s waves in Avatar: The Way of Water!

As proven by a study done by D-BOX Technologies—a company who creates motion systems for cinema seats—noticeable physiological reactions occur in moviegoers who watch movies in moving seats, demonstrating that these types of technologies increase sensory perception and enhance your overall emotional engagement with the movie.    

While moving seats appear to be a perfect match for action titles, they also enhance the movie experience for ‘calmer’ movies as well. During more serene moments, seats that move can provide gentle movements—or a total lack of movement—to enhance the narrative and storytelling. For example, in a mostly silent movies such as the A Quiet Place titles, gentle vibrations can make moviegoers aware of the monsters lurking nearby, while a lack of movement altogether can hold audiences in suspense of an imminent attack.

No matter the premium (or lack of premium) experience, moviegoers will always be immersed through the screen and sound. Thanks to motion cinema seats, you can add sense of touch to that list—creating a triangle of immersion that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Basic moving seats

The entry-level option in the world of moving cinema seats is designed to do exactly that: move. Basic moving seats will move in response to key moments in the movie, tilting, swaying, or rocking to match visual cues, but will lack additional sensory effects such as vibrations or textures. They provide a physical connection to the action on-screen that normal, non-moving seats don’t, but they still don’t provide the most realistic motion experience possible.

4D cinema seats

An extension beyond 3D, 4D seats seek to engage all the senses of moviegoers in a plethora of different ways. Possible effects include not only motion, but smells, fog, wind, bubbles, water sprays, lights and more.
4D moving seats can be found in movie theaters as well as in theme parks.  

Haptic cinema seats

Haptics is the use of technology to stimulate the sense of touch of a user in a way that communicates with them. The mechanism that stimulates the sense of touch and that transmits information is referred to as haptic technology, while the information conveyed is called haptic feedback.

The complexity of this technology is what makes haptic movie theater seats the most immersive and realistic option on the market. These advanced seats move in sync with the action while also incorporating vibrations and textures that enhance realism and fully engage the sense of touch of the entire body.

The incorporation of haptic feedback into cinema seats to provide moviegoers with a more nuanced and detailed sensory journey. Textures and vibrations can mimic a variety of different sensations, from floating in the weightlessness of space to the reverberating impact of a large bomb going off—amplifying excitement for action sequences but also adding depth to quieter movie moments.

The future—virtual reality motion seats?

While no one can predict the future, it’s not unreasonable to believe that virtual reality motion seats will one day be available for moviegoers.

With the popularity of VR skyrocketing for many different uses (such as in gaming, professional training, medicine and more) — all with the goal of further immersing the user into the content they’re seeing—it's not that big of a leap to see the concept applied to movie theaters.

For the ultimate immersive experience, this would involve sitting in a haptic seat while wearing a VR headset that could potentially make you become a character in the movie.

Basic mechanics of motion seats

No matter the type of motion seat, the basic mechanics stay the same: most are equipped with (and work thanks to) a piece of hardware called an actuator.

Actuators can come in many different shapes and sizes depending on their intended use but are typically cylindrical or rectangular. They’ll almost always have an outer casing (made from plastic or metal) that protects the moving parts inside, which are what make the magic happen!

What exactly is on the inside? Usually there’ll be a motor that drives a rod or piston—which is what creates the effects felt by the user—though this can vary from actuator to actuator.

Integration with film content

While actuators are the physical component that creates motion in cinema seats, they only know how to move because they’ve been pre-integrated with the film’s content.

The process will vary from provider to provider, but motion integration is typically done with the use of motion codes.

In simple terms, motion codes are detailed instructions embedded within the movie’s digital file. These instructions send signals to the actuators telling them to activate and produce the appropriate motion at the appropriate time. Motion codes can either be generated automatically or can be designed by hand—again, depending on the experience provider.

Connecting motion codes to actuators

While moving cinema seats require both actuators and motion codes to function, they also require controllers.

Controllers can be considered the brains of theatrical motion systems as they process the motion codes and coordinate the actions of the actuators in real-time—ensuring that the seat’s movements are perfectly timed with the film.

It’s this combination of actuators, motion codes and controllers that ultimately come together to make movies a multi-sensory adventure for audiences around the world.

Moving cinema seats enhance immersion

Arguably one of the biggest benefits of moving cinema seats is their ability to significantly increase viewer immersion by creating a more dynamic and interactive cinema experience. The physical sensations the seats provide in response to the on-screen action makes audiences feel as though they are truly part of the movie, tearing down the barrier between the viewer and screen.

Moving theater seats increase audience engagement

The physical effects provided by motion seats not only increase immersion, but they also increase audience engagement with the content. Stemming from the physical involvement created by motion effects, moving theater seats make viewers more attentive and emotionally invested in the film—transforming the passive act of watching a movie into an interactive experience.

This added layer of engagement not only makes movies more memorable, but it encourages moviegoers to come back for more interactive experiences!

Moving cinema seats offer wellness benefits

The immersive and engaging nature of motion seats have an additional side effect: escapism and stress relief!

By fully engaging the senses and drawing audiences into the story, moving theater seats offer moviegoers a mental break from daily routines. This is particularly beneficial in today’s fast-paced world, where taking the time to find enjoyable leisure activities is crucial for mental health.

The combination of entertainment with wellness benefits make moving cinema seats a holistic approach to movies that enhances both enjoyment and wellbeing.

Moving seats are often located in the best spot in the theater

Motion seats are often strategically placed in the best spots within a theater, ensuring that viewers not only experience the enhanced physical effects but also enjoy optimal viewing angles and sound quality!

These prime locations are typically in the center of the auditorium and provide the perfect balance of proximity to the screen and the speakers, allowing for a fully immersive audiovisual experience. This strategic placement not only enhances the enjoyment of the film but also adds value to the movie-going experience, making it more attractive for audiences seeking a premium, all-encompassing cinematic adventure!

Motion seats have the potential of revenue generation for exhibitors

For theater exhibitors, moving seats offer a substantial opportunity for revenue generation. These premium seating options command higher ticket prices due to the enhanced viewing experience, making them a lucrative addition to any theater’s seating options.

Additionally, motion seats can also attract a wider audience—specifically those who might normally prefer to watch a movie at home. The unique experience provided by these seats is something that can’t easily be recreated and encourages repeat visits to theaters, boosting overall attendance.

Finally, the advanced technology and novelty of motion seats can be leveraged in marketing campaigns to make a theater stand out from its competitors, which increases brand recognition.

What are motion seats? Motion cinema seats explained

As previously stated, motion seats are a premium theatrical experience in which the seats that moviegoers sit in can move, sway, vibrate and more alongside the movie itself. Motion seats stimulate the sense of touch of audiences to create an immersive theatrical experience.

What’s it called when the movie seats move?

When movie cinema seats move in synchronization with the action on-screen, the movie industry refers to it as “motion seating” or “motion seats.” However, the technology is also known by branded names. For example, if you see “D-BOX seats” on a movie theater’s website, they’re referring to the moving cinema seats offered by the company D-BOX Technologies.

What’s the best seat in cinemas?

Arguably the best seats in cinemas are moving seats that are in the middle of the auditorium. The combination of an unobstructed view with equally balanced sound and physical immersion provided by the moving seats makes for the optimal theatrical experience.

Do motion seats need glasses?

Unless the movie being shown is offered in 3D, then you do not require glasses to be immersed by moving cinema seats.

Do you get wet in motion seats?

While standard and haptic moving cinema seats don’t involve the use of water, some 4D moving seats do. To confirm if water is part of the motion experience offered by your local theater, please check the company offering it and refer to their website.

Can you eat popcorn with motion seats?

Absolutely! No movie theater experience is complete without popcorn —motion seat experiences included.

What’s a premium seat in theaters?

A premium experience in movie theaters is any enhancement to the traditional way of going to the movies. Premium experiences are designed to elevate the entire experience by offering enhanced comfort, superior viewing conditions, or additional amenities that go beyond what the standard experience provides.

Premium offerings cater to moviegoers seeking a more immersive environment and who seek a unique way to experience their movies.

While not all premium experiences involve premium seats, many do. Examples of premium seats include recliners, extra legroom or leather seating, and can even include other perks such as in-seat dining service.

Moving cinema seats are another example of a premium seating options, as they provide a viewing experience that is superior to that of standard seats.

What movie theater has moving seats?

Several movie theater chains around the world (as well as some independents) offer moving cinema seats to make the experience more exciting for moviegoers.

In Canada, Cineplex is well known for featuring moving seats in many of their locations. The same can be said for Cinemark in the United States and in Latin America, HOYTS in Australia, and Kinopolis in Germany.

What do motion cinema seats cost?

Moving cinema seats typically come with a small surcharge compared to standard seating options. This surcharge is due to the premium nature of the experience they provide, and reflects the costs associated with the advanced technology and extra comfort of the seats!

The exact amount of the surcharge will vary from theater, location, and moving seat brand, but moviegoers find the added expense worthwhile for the immersive and interactive experience they receive.

Installation, maintenance, and the associated downtime

Regardless of the premium format that an exhibitor is looking to invest in, they must carefully evaluate the installation and maintenance requirements, along with any potential associated downtime. Motion seats are no exception. While the installation process will vary from provider to provider, it typically involves integrating advanced hardware and software into a theater’s existing infrastructure, which is no easy task.

This is why it’s important to research which companies offer innovative solutions that can significantly reduce downtime and minimize disruptions to revenue generation. Some companies, like D-BOX, offer remote software installation, where much of the setup is performed off-site and configured to work seamlessly upon delivery. Installation can be done overnight, ensuring that exhibitors don’t lose a dime. 

Long-term maintenance is another crucial factor to consider. Many motion systems will require regular upkeep to ensure optimal performance and longevity. By researching which companies offer high-quality, low-maintenance solutions, exhibitors can make a decision that will help them mitigate potential issues and simply enjoy the benefits of enhanced audience engagement and revenues.

Audience preferences

Understanding and catering to audience preferences is crucial when investing in motion seats   . Exhibitors need to choose a motion seat provider that codes movies across a wide variety of genres, catering to the diverse tastes of moviegoers across the world. Whether it’s an action-packed blockbuster, a heartwarming family film or a thrilling horror movie, the moving seat provider must ensure that the effects enhance the viewing experience for a wide range of films and for a wide range of age groups.

Additionally, different people will enjoy different levels of intensity in their motion experience. Some may prefer more subtle movements while others may seek a more intense one, making the ideal seating partner one who gives moviegoers the ability to personalize their experience.

Customer & technical support

Arguably one of the most important factors for exhibitors considering motion seats is the quality of customer and technical support provided by the seating partner. While exhibitors should choose the partner who offers the most durable solution, there’s sometimes no predicting when issues arise—making support crucial.

The ideal motion seating partner will offer comprehensive and reliable support services that are always available to assist theater operators. This 24/7 availability ensures that any issues—whether technical ones or operational concerns—can be promptly addressed, minimizing downtime and the quality of the experience.

Having a dedicated and accessible support team helps exhibitors maintain the high standards expected by moviegoers and preserves the operational efficiency of the theater itself.

Content delivery method: ACR  

Once motion seats are installed, Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) is the primary method used to deliver content to activate the seats.

ACR uses the film’s audio track to automatically and seamlessly trigger seat movements, as opposed to using a singular, heavy file, as was done in the past with other methods such as DCP (Digital Cinema Package).

The ideal motion seating partner will offer robust support for ACR, ensuring that their seats consistently deliver a high-quality experience.

Advancements in technology

The future of moving movie theater seats will likely be shaped by significant technological advancements that will further be able to enhance the cinema experience. For example, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning could potentially be used to analyze movie content and audience reactions in real-time, adjusting the movements for an optimal experience.

As previously mentioned, it is likely that virtual reality will eventually be integrated with motion seats as well. This combination will create an even more immersive environment, where physical movements are synchronized not only to the movie, but to a fully immersive 3D environment. This experience would offer moviegoers an entirely new level of engagement!

Overall, as technology continues to evolve, moving cinema seats will become more advanced and will provide audiences an even more premium cinematic experience.

Integration with other premium formats

With the demand for premium experiences continuously rising, it’s likely that the future will see moving cinema seats integrated with other premium formats in the same auditoriums to create a holistic movie-going experience.

For example, motion seats could be incorporated into auditoriums with large-format screens—such as 360° screens—to extend the moviegoers’ field of vision and to make every moment of movies more engaging!

By combining the best in visual, auditory and motion experiences, audiences everywhere can receive a fully comprehensive and unforgettable cinematic experience.

Market predictions and growth opportunities for moving cinema seats  

With the market for premium experiences—especially for motion cinema seats—poised for growth, they’re going to become an essential feature of any modern cinema. With the potential for new technologies to take them to the next level and with combined premium experiences encouraging increased consumer demand, the future of motion cinema seats is bright and filled with opportunities for exhibitors to capitalize on the demand for high-quality movie experiences!

About D-BOX and their haptic technology

For more than 25 years, D-BOX has been at the forefront of revolutionizing the movie-watching experience with its innovative haptic technology. Having continuously pushed the boundaries of immersive entertainment, they currently deploy their haptic technology in multiple business sectors such as sim racing, professional simulation & training, gaming as well as in attractions & theme parks!

Despite their versatility, D-BOX is most known for the premium haptic theatrical experience that they offer to moviegoers in more than 40 countries all around the world.

This experience is brought to movie lovers through haptic actuators that allow audiences to experience movements, vibrations and textures directly in their movie theater seat. Thanks to their dedicated team of haptic designers and developers whose job it is to hand-code haptic effects to each individual piece of content, their motion experience is the most realistic and truly makes viewers feel as though they are part of the movie!

With more than 65,000 unique haptic effects to choose from, D-BOX can enhance every type of movie and every type of scene—from the subtlest vibrations that convey tension in a thriller to dynamic, full-body movements that mimic high-speed car chases. These effects bring users beyond sight and sound, elevating the cinematic experience to new heights by stimulating the skin, muscles and balance of the audience!

Additionally, D-BOX's moving seat experience puts audiences in control of their own preferences, as an in-seat intensity control remote allows them to toggle the effects up or down to their likings.

Through continuous innovation and their dedication to delivering high-quality experiences, D-BOX has established itself as a leader in the entertainment industry, providing cutting-edge haptic solutions that captivate and engage audiences worldwide. Their technology not only enhances the enjoyment of movies but also sets a new standard for immersive entertainment!

How D-BOX hand-codes haptic effects to create immersive moving seat experiences

The creation of D-BOX's immersive moving seat experience is a meticulous process that involves the expertise of skilled haptic designers who are trained in-house to provide the experience that only D-BOX can provide. These designers—many of whom have a background in music—play a crucial role in crafting and selecting the proper combination of haptic effects to synchronize perfectly with a movie’s audio track. Their musical training gives them the ability to understand and interpret subtle nuances of sound, which in turn allows them to choose effects that complement and enhance the film.

With more than 350,000 hours of labor alone dedicated to creating D-BOX's one-of-a-kind library of haptic effects, no motion seat experience rivals the realism they provide. The rigorous hand-coding process ensures that each effect (and combination of effects) is perfectly timed and tailored to specific scenes and narratives in the movie. Doing everything by hand allows for a level of detail and precision that automated processes cannot achieve, ensuring that every movement, vibration and texture is intricately aligned with the action on-screen.

By combining their musical expertise with a deep understanding of film and technology, D-BOX's haptic designers continuously expand their repertoire of effects, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. This commitment to a human-centered approach is what sets D-BOX apart and what provides moviegoers with an experience that keeps them coming back for more. 

The impact of D-BOX's partnerships with the world’s leading studios

D-BOX's long-standing relationships with some of the world’s leading movie studios—including the likes of Walt Disney Studios, Universal Studios, Paramount Pictures and others—plays a crucial role in their ability to deliver their cutting-edge haptic experience.

These relationships allow D-BOX to access films prior to their theatrical release and formally become part of the post-production phase of a movie. Having access in post-production is what allows their haptic designers to watch the movies in advance, hand-code the haptic effects that bring the story to life and deliver it to exhibitors in time to ‘wow’ moviegoers.

These collaborative relationships also allow D-BOX to code a wide range of movies, since each studio releases multiple titles per year. Additionally, since D-BOX has these relationships with so many different studios, they’re able to code every type of title, with their haptic effects enhancing action, animation, adventure, horror, suspense, musicals, and even the occasional international title! No matter an audience’s personal preferences, there will always be a D-BOX coded title for them to move and sway with.

In addition to their work with film studios, D-BOX also partners with some of the biggest names in the gaming industry, including Ubisoft, KT Racing and Electronic Arts (EA). These collaborations allow D-BOX to integrate their haptic feedback directly into the game’s engine, creating a deeply immersive gaming experience that extends beyond haptics in controllers. This integration means that players can feel every turn, jump and explosion as if they were inside the game, further demonstrating the versatility and broad application of D-BOX's haptic technology.

Bringing the director’s vision to life

Being part of a movie’s post-production and having a working relationship with Hollywood studios brings another perk to D-BOX's moving theater seat experience: the input of movie directors and studio executives themselves!

Occasionally, while D-BOX's haptic designers are working on coding a new movie, their Los Angeles office will turn into a testing site for directors or studio executives. They’ll get to experience the haptic track first-hand and give their feedback directly to the D-BOX team, ensuring that every movement, vibration, and texture complements the film’s narrative and emotional tone—transforming their audiovisual work of art into an all-encompassing experience.

The power of hand-coding haptic effects: what it means to go beyond sight and sound with moving seats

Having early access to movies, games and other types of entertainment gives D-BOX's haptic team the time to bring the audience or player experience beyond sight and sound.

For example, imagine the scene in Star Wars: The Last Jedi  in which Rey is being held captive with physical restraints. Ultimately, she summons the Force to break free—but the audience doesn’t know that until she physically breaks her restraints.

Meanwhile, D-BOX's haptic designers have added subtle vibrations that begin to build in intensity to the scene, mirroring Rey’s internal struggle and concentration to use the Force. These vibrations gradually increase—creating a sense of anticipation and tension—which ultimately culminates in an explosive burst when she finally breaks free.

This carefully crafted sequence of haptic feedback communicates with the audience without the help of audiovisual effects that she’s summoning the Force, before the rest of the audience knows it—making them the most immersed people in the auditorium.

Unique D-BOX motion seat features and advantages

D-BOX's human centered approach has more benefits and advantages than just setting them apart, however. By leveraging the experience their haptic designers and developers have gained from working in D-BOX's multiple business sectors, they can confidently say that they provide the most realistic haptic experience in every domain!

The realism and precision of D-BOX's haptic feedback is so advanced that their haptic system is the only one in the world to be licensed by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) — the world’s most prestigious and global governing body for motorsport—proving that their approach is the ultimate experience. This endorsement underscores the exceptional quality and realism of D-BOX haptic feedback, no matter the business sector.

D-BOX is also one of the only premium formats  that allows moviegoers to set the intensity of their motion seat experience. With multiple in-seat settings—ranging from ‘no effects’ to ‘max intensity’ — audiences can adjust the intensity of the movements, vibrations, and textures to the setting that is most comfortable for them.

Additionally, what makes D-BOX a unique business partner for movie exhibitors is not only will their moving cinema seats increase box office revenue, but they can also help transform your cinema into a Family Entertainment Center (FEC) thanks to self-service haptic sim racing simulators. This versatility allows exhibitors to maximize their investment with D-BOX by providing a range of interactive experiences that appeal to diverse audiences.

Whether by enhancing the cinema experience or offering thrilling sim racing adventures, D-BOX provides exhibitors with unmatched realism, precision, and enhanced audience engagement.The science behind D-BOX's moving cinema seats 

The science behind D-BOX's moving cinema seats

Wanting to prove that their haptic feedback truly effected moviegoers, D-BOX partnered with Tech3Lab from the HEC Montréal to conduct scientific experiments on the topic. One of them looked at physiological and emotional reactions of participants who were exposed to haptic and static movie scenes of action and non-action movies.

The results found that during action movies, the D-BOX effect is highly noticeable. Participants had strong, subconscious neurological reactions to action scenes with haptics and their bodies strongly reacted to the haptic stimuli, as determined through facial, dermal and cardiac reactions. Those who watched action clips with haptic feedback also generated more cognitive activity during the content, demonstrating that they’re more engaged with and immersed in the action on-screen.

For non-action movies, the study found that D-BOX haptics significantly enhances the physical narrative perspective that is intended by the audiovisual effects. For example, participants perceived cold things to be colder and heavy things to be heavier. Essentially, the weight, temperature and speed of objects were found to be amplified by haptics!

Additionally, D-BOX was found to significantly enhance the feeling of immersion, sense of presence and emotional response to cinematic experiences—proving that D-BOX's moving cinema seats truly are the best option for moviegoers and exhibitors alike.

The D-BOX motion seat experience: endorsed by the industry’s biggest stars

Moviegoers aren’t the only ones who love the D-BOX moving cinema seats—multiple industry professionals and household names also swear by it!

For example, the cast of the 2024 blockbuster Twisters—including Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, Brandon Perea, and Anthony Ramos— enthusiastically encouraged audiences to see the movie in D-BOX. They proclaimed, "your seats will twist and shake perfectly with every twist and turn. You will truly feel like you're part of the action!"

Renowned directors such as Jason Reitman, David Leitch, and actor Keegan-Michael Key   have also all publicly praised the D-BOX experience for their respective films, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, The Fall Guy, and The Super Mario Bros Movie. These endorsements from industry heavyweights underscore the transformative impact of D-BOX motion seats in bringing their creative visions to life.

Big names such as John Cena, known for his roles in action-packed films, have also praised D-BOX's immersive experience. He invited moviegoers worldwide to experience F9 in D-BOX, urging them to "get your tickets to F9 in D-BOX and buckle up for a movie experience unlike any other!"

Celebrity endorsements like these not only validate the quality and appeal of D-BOX motion seats but also serve as powerful marketing tools for exhibitors. They entice moviegoers to upgrade their tickets, promising an extraordinary cinematic adventure that is thrilling, unforgettable, and beloved by their favourite actors and directors!

Your next premium format: D-BOX benefits for exhibitors      

As far as premium experiences go, D-BOX is arguably one of the most beneficial premium formats in which exhibitors can invest.

For starters, D-BOX offers a wide range of different products that allow for multiple types of auditorium configurations. They have everything from recliners and/or luxury seats to compact seating and standard theater seater, thus allowing them to accommodate various seating preferences and space requirements. With D-BOX, exhibitors also have the option to install seats in the entire auditorium or in select rows, putting them in control of what their D-BOX offerings will look like.

Additionally, as previously mentioned, D-BOX caters to all types of moviegoers regardless of age or preferences. With more than 65 feature films coded each year, D-BOX provides a premium experience for a broader range of titles than any other premium format. Whether it’s an action-packed blockbuster, a family-friendly animated title, a dramatic thriller or a groovy musical, D-BOX enhances the viewing experience for all genres.

Finally, since each D-BOX title is meticulously hand-coded, they all deliver a unique experience that cannot be replicated anywhere else. This personalized touch ensures that audiences keep coming back for more, driving repeat business and therefore increased box office revenue!

These are just some of the factors that make D-BOX an attractive investment for exhibitors looking to enhance their theaters with innovative technology.

Installing and maintaining D-BOX cinema seats

One of the biggest advantages of D-BOX as a premium format is that the installation of their moving cinema seats doesn’t necessarily require any auditorium downtime. D-BOX installations can be completed overnight or even remotely, ensuring that there is no revenue loss associated with the installation and minimal interruptions to theater operations (and for moviegoers). This seamless process means that exhibitors can continue to run their theaters as usual, without any cancelled showings!

In addition to hassle-free installation, D-BOX haptic systems are made of high-quality materials designed to last. This durability translates to little to no maintenance required over the long lifetime of their systems! The robust construction and reliable performance of D-BOX cinema seats ensure than exhibitors can offer a premium experience without the constant worry of repairs, reducing operation costs and enhancing the overall efficiency of theater operations.

By choosing D-BOX as a motion seat provider, exhibitors benefit from cutting-edge technology that is both easy to install and maintain, all while providing a long-lasting solution that enhances audience engagement and box office revenue.

D-BOX's customer support systems

Not only is D-BOX one of the best premium formats when it comes to installation, but their customer support is also unmatched. They ensure that exhibitors have access to comprehensive support solutions at all times of day, designed to keep their operations running smoothly!       

D-BOX's dedicated support team is available by phone or by e-mail, ensuring that any issues can be promptly addressed by those who know their haptic systems best. They’re best suited to always provide expert guidance and assistance!

Finally, D-BOX offers all its exhibitors a plethora of marketing assets that range from imagery, videos, logos and more to help them promote the D-BOX experience.

Content delivery for D-BOX moving cinema seats

D-BOX ensures a seamless and efficient content delivery process for its moving cinema seats through Automatic Content Recognition (ACR). This cutting-edge delivery method offers exhibitors the best option, as it allows D-BOX's haptic systems to synchronize perfectly with the movie being played without the need for extensive manual adjustments or pre-loaded content files. The results? A highly accurate, simple and reliable delivery of their haptic effects, enhancing the overall immersive experience.

Proven case studies

Over the last 25 years, D-BOX has built a strong track record of enhancing the cinematic experience and boosting revenue for exhibitors worldwide.

For example, Cineplex—a leading entertainment company in Canada—has successfully integrated D-BOX motion seats across a plethora of locations. Kevin Watts, Executive Vice President of Exhibition and LBE, revealed in an interview that the impact on their ticket sales was nearly instantaneous and the integration of D-BOX's haptic system with their POS was seamless.

In Australia, HOYTS also implemented D-BOX technology to set itself apart in the highly competitive cinema industry. Their mission has always been to provide moviegoers with the cinema of tomorrow, today—and that’s exactly why they’ve had roaring success with D-BOX. The immersive nature of the seats appealed to their audience and saw them continuously coming back for more experiences, driving overall business growth.

Meanwhile in the United States, Cinemark  uses D-BOX motion seats to create unforgettable, larger-than-life entertainment experiences that can’t be found at home or anywhere else. Sean Gamble, Cinemark’s CEO, described D-BOX as “an exceptional amenity that helps with increased immersion” and said that Cinemark “appreciates the opportunity to place D-BOX seats where they’ll perform best.”

Exhibitor feedback

These exhibitors took the plunge by investing in D-BOX motion seats and have seen their chains do nothing but benefit as a result.

As Tyrone Dodds, Director of Property & Business Development at HOYTS explained, deciding to work with D-BOX was a no-brainer.

“The D-BOX team really took the time to understand our business and build a strong relationship with key members of our team,” he said. “Some other concepts in market felt more like a roller coaster ride rather than an immersive extension of the cinematic experience.”

He added that

“in a world where [movie theaters] are competing with streaming and other forms of entertainment, it’s important that we keep looking at ways to provide a more premium experience for our customers to ensure cinema remains relevant [...] and D-BOX is a key part of that strategy for HOYTS.”

Watts from Cineplex had similar comments.

“The D-BOX team has been incredible in terms of acquiring films and delivering this amazing technology,” he said. “Here at Cineplex, we really believe in this immersive experience that differentiates the in-home viewing from out-of-home.”

Damian Wardle, EVP of Theatre and Technical Operations at Cinemark, complimented the D-BOX installation process.

“It’s very seamless, with no interruption to theater operations,” he said. “We don’t ever have an auditorium under construction so we can deploy D-BOX essentially at any time. Giving guests what they want and enhancing the movie as well as making a nice revenue return, that’s a win-win.”

Exhibitors aren’t the only ones who love D-BOX's haptic cinema seats. Moviegoers from around the world have raved about the experience and the immersion it provides!

“Dune was so much fun in D-BOX!” explained Luke Tanner on D-BOX's community forum. “The ship scenes were breathtaking.”

Paul Jordan, another moviegoer, had similar thoughts about his experience watching Avatar: The Way of Water in D-BOX.

“It was so amazing,” he said. “We really felt like we were in the movie. There’s nothing quite like D-BOX!”

Video testimonials

Moviegoers from Cineplex also had nothing but positive things to say about their experience. Check out what they had to say in their own words!

Audiences who have been immersed by the D-BOX moving seat experience at Cinemark had similar comments, with one even going as far as to say that

“D-BOX is the best thing to ever happen to a movie theater.”

Can you turn off D-BOX seats?

Yes, you can turn D-BOX moving seats off! Since D-BOX offers a personalized experience, each seat is equipped with individual motion controls, allowing moviegoers to adjust the intensity of the haptic effects to their preference—or to turn them off entirely.

Whether they prefer a full, immersive experience or a calmer viewing experience, D-BOX seats provide moviegoers the options to tailor the experience to their likings.

Do D-BOX seats recline?

Yes, some D-BOX seats do indeed recline, providing both comfort and an immersive experience! However, you must check with your local theater to see which types of seats they offer, as D-BOX offers a wide range of moving seats—and not all of them are recliners.

How do D-BOX seats work?

As previously explained, D-BOX seats work thanks to three main elements: actuators, hand-coded haptic effects, and ACR content delivery.

1. Actuators: Each D-BOX moving seat is equipped with hardware called actuators that generate precise movements, vibrations and textures. These effects can range from subtle to more pronounced tilts & shifts.
2. Hand-coded haptic effects: D-BOX has an in-house team of haptic designers and developers who have spent more than 350,000 hours hand-coding a library of more than 65,000 unique haptic effects. Through collaborations with movie studios, this team watches the movies prior to their release and selects a combination of these effects that enhance the on-screen action and that are perfectly synchronized.
   
   
3. ACR content delivery: The actuators under D-BOX's moving seats are seamlessly activated by listening to the movie’s audio track, ensuring that the experience is as easy as possible to run, and is perfectly synchronized for moviegoers!

What does D-BOX stand for?

The D-BOX name pays homage to the company’s origins as a manufacturer of high-quality box speakers. These speakers were designed to deliver an exceptional audio experience, but when the company noticed that the bass produced by their speakers created noticeable vibrations that enhanced the movie-watching experience, there was a pivot in their business focus—and the immersive experience known around the world today was born!

Essentially, D-BOX stands for ‘The Box’.

Is D-BOX the same as 3D?

No, D-BOX and 3D are two different types of technologies that enhance the moviegoing experience in different ways.

3D technology adds depth to the images on screen, making it a visual enhancement. It requires special glasses for the effects to work.

D-BOX, on the other hand, does not require the moviegoer to wear any type of glasses or equipment, and it physically stimulates the moviegoer’s entire body—making it a physical enhancement as opposed to a visual one.

Is there a weight limit for D-BOX moving seats?

While there is technically a weight limit for D-BOX seats, it’s extremely unlikely that it will be reached. Each actuator can support 250 lbs—meaning that seats with 2 actuators (as most chairs are equipped with) can support 500 lbs, including the weight of the seat itself.

Are D-BOX movies worth it?

Absolutely, D-BOX movies are worth it for several reasons. The immersive experience they offer is unparalleled. With synchronized motion, vibrations, and textures, D-BOX seats make you feel like you're part of the action, significantly enhancing your emotional and physical engagement with the film. This multi-sensory experience is something traditional movie seats simply can't provide!

If you’re looking for an enhanced, engaging, and customizable movie experience that adds a physical dimension to your viewing, D-BOX is worth trying. It transforms movie-watching into a more interactive and memorable event, making every visit to the cinema a unique adventure!

D-BOX has been revolutionizing the cinematic experience for both moviegoers and exhibitors for more than 25 years and has no plans to stop any time soon. For moviegoers, D-BOX seats offer an unmatched level of immersion and a personalized and comfortable experience, enhancing the enjoyment of any type of movie.

For exhibitors, D-BOX provides a flexible and lucrative opportunity. Their wide range of seating options and minimal installation downtime mean theaters can easily integrate D-BOX without disrupting operations or incurring revenue loss. The impressive roster of more than 65 hand-coded films per year attracts diverse audiences, driving repeat business and increasing ticket sales. Furthermore, D-BOX’s strong partnerships with leading movie studios and the unique, high-quality haptic effects ensure a premium experience that sets theaters apart from the competition!

D-BOX is not just an addition to the cinema; it’s an upgrade that transforms the way movies are experienced, providing significant benefits to both audiences and theater operators.

So, what are you waiting for?