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Magazine Article Prediction by David Jonathan and Kevin Aust

Created by: David Jonathan, Kevin Aust

**Magazine Article Prediction** is a mentalism and close-up magic trick that leverages the **Deqode** device to create seemingly impossible predictions using QR codes or barcodes. A spectator freely selects an item (e.g., a movie from a magazine's 'Top 10 Funniest Movies' list), and when they scan a QR code or barcode on the page, it directs them to the exact webpage of their chosen item. The trick works with any QR code or barcode, making it highly versatile for real-world applications. The device is compatible with both iPhone and Android, and it comes with custom-designed props for seamless performances.

Key features

  • Works with any QR code or barcode, not just custom ones

  • Compatible with iPhone and Android devices

  • Includes custom-designed props for performances

  • Versatile for mentalism, predictions, and humorous gags

  • Easy setup and installation

Pros

  • Highly versatile for real-world applications

  • No need for custom QR codes—works with existing ones

  • Strong audience impact with impossible-seeming predictions

  • Includes props to enhance performances

  • Compatible with most smartphones

Cons

  • Requires a smartphone for the performer and spectator

  • May need practice to integrate smoothly into routines

  • Relies on technology, which could fail in low-connectivity areas

Effect

The Magazine Article Prediction trick uses Deqode to create a seemingly impossible prediction. A spectator freely chooses a movie from a list of the top 10 funniest movies in a magazine. When they scan a QR code on the page, it takes them directly to the webpage of the movie they selected. The effect is clean, direct, and leaves the audience stunned.

Full Details

Deqode is a device that secretly controls where QR codes and barcodes scan. It works with any QR code or barcode, not just custom ones, making it highly versatile. For the Magazine Article Prediction, the performer prepares a magazine page with a QR code. No matter which movie the spectator picks, scanning the code leads to that exact movie’s webpage. The method is undetectable, and the result appears completely fair.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who want a modern, tech-based effect that plays big. It works well for:

  • Mentalists who want a clean prediction effect.
  • Close-up performers looking for an interactive routine.
  • Anyone who enjoys using everyday objects (like magazines) in magic.

Since Deqode works with any QR code, performers can adapt the trick to different contexts beyond magazines.

Difficulty

The trick is easy to perform from a technical standpoint. The main challenge is presentation—making the selection process feel fair and natural. No sleight of hand is required, but smooth handling of the phone and QR code scanning is important. The setup involves configuring Deqode, which the creators describe as simple.

What Magicians Say

SaturnMagicShop highlights the versatility of Deqode, calling it "the perfect everyday carry" for magicians. They demonstrate the Magazine Article Prediction as one of many possible routines, emphasizing how clean and impossible it looks.

David Jonathan and Kevin Aust, the creators, stress that Deqode works with any QR code, making it adaptable for different performances. They describe the effect as "truly unbelievable" and showcase it with reactions like, "What? How did you do that?"

The trick is praised for its strong impact and ease of use, making it a solid choice for performers who want a modern, tech-driven effect.

What people are saying about Magazine Article Prediction

SaturnMagicShop says...

Deqode gives you the power to secretly control where any QR code or any barcode will scan to—it's the perfect everyday carry packed with tons of routines you'll love performing. [...] The possibilities with Deqode are endless, from predicting a three-course meal to any celebrity or movie.

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