iCons

iCons is a modern mentalism app-based trick where the magician uses a smartphone app to seemingly influence a spectator's choices or thoughts, creating powerful and surprising revelations. This digital close-up or parlour mentalism effect leverages technology to produce two strong hits from a single search, often framed with a compelling narrative about influence or subconscious suggestion. Buyers should note that it requires a compatible smartphone and app installation, and it's ideal for performers comfortable with integrating technology into their routines, even if they are not tech-savvy, as Keith Barry's experience shows.

Key features

Uses a smartphone app for digital mentalism effects
Produces two powerful hits from a single search
Can be framed with an influence narrative for enhanced impact
Suitable for close-up or parlour settings
Works well even for performers who are not technologically inclined

Pros

Generates strong, surprising revelations
Easy to integrate with storytelling
Reliable and consistent in performance

Cons

Requires a smartphone and app dependency
May not appeal to purists who prefer non-digital magic

Effect

The iCons trick uses a mobile app to create a mentalism experience. A spectator names any famous person. The magician opens the app and shows a single icon on the screen. The icon perfectly matches the named person. The effect is a direct and powerful mind reading demonstration using modern technology.

Full details

iCons is a digital magic trick performed with a smartphone. The magician asks a spectator to think of any well-known celebrity, historical figure, or public personality. No force is used. The spectator has a completely free choice. The magician then opens the iCons application. The screen displays one simple icon. This icon represents the exact person the spectator named. The app requires no pre-show work or pre-loading. It works instantly during performance. Keith Barry uses an influence narrative with the app to create two powerful hits from one search, strengthening the overall effect.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is suitable for magicians who perform mentalism. It works for close-up and parlor settings. It is ideal for performers who want to incorporate modern technology into their acts. Keith Barry, despite describing himself as a technophobe, found success with iCons. Magicians looking for a quick, impactful trick that uses a phone will find it useful. It is also good for those who want to build a routine around a theme of influence or connection.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The technical method is handled by the app. The performer does not need complex sleight of hand. The primary skill required is presentation and storytelling. Keith Barry emphasizes that a strong narrative can elevate the effect. The difficulty level is low for the method. The challenge is in constructing a compelling performance around the app's result. No special digital skills are needed to operate the app during the trick.

What magicians say

Keith Barry discusses using iCons in his performances. He builds a compelling influence narrative around the app that yields powerful hits. He states that despite his personal technophobia, the app produces strong reactions from audiences. The trick is part of his selected material for creating emotional impact. He demonstrates how a good story can make even a digital tool feel magical and meaningful.

What people are saying about iCons

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Barry also reveals his surprising success with iCons, despite being a self-proclaimed technophobe. He builds a compelling influence narrative around the app that yields two powerful hits from a single search, demonstrating how a strong story can elevate even modern digital tools.