Live broadcasts and accompanying digital platforms continue to grow in popularity as individuals seek new ways to engage each other on topics they’re passionate about. In response to the growing demand for connection while social distancing, Facebook has launched a new iOS and Android app called Venue. Venue acts as a digital companion to live events and will provide a place for users to interact in a novel and interesting way. Venue shares similarities with Twitter’s second screen feature, but this new app differs in several key ways, which we discuss below.
How Does Venue Work?
Venue is still in the experimental phase and has only partnered with NASCAR thus far. Although it’s still in the earliest stages, this new app may become an important aspect of social media marketing in the future. Venue acts as a digital companion to live broadcasts and is a place where expert commentators can offer insight and spark conversation between passionate fans. Since the Venue app is a companion to live broadcasts, users benefit from the ability to tune in whenever they please. This new technology aims to make live broadcasts a community experience, rather than a solo viewing session.
Venue’s focus on prominent individuals within the community (for example, influencers, journalists, etc.) helps set this app apart from similar technology, such as Twitter’s second screen feature. Each “venue” is hosted by a different expert, which allows different perspectives on the live event. Additionally, users will be notified of important moments during the broadcast, so it’s easy to find the pivotal moments that everyone’s talking about.
For those who miss the connection of interacting with a passionate like-minded community, Venue may provide a digital alternative that feels just as exciting. Although Venue is currently being promoted as a live sports companion, additional events may be included down the road. Since the app provides a place for well-respected voices to post polls, pose interactive questions, and start chats, Venue has the potential to be used for much more than just sporting events.
Regardless of the direction that Venue takes, marketers will want to keep their eye on this app. If your brand can benefit from live broadcasting or you’d like to lend your expertise as a commentator, consider checking in on future opportunities for partnership. To keep your finger on the pulse of new and upcoming marketing tools, consider working with a team of social media marketing experts. We’ll create a customized plan to help you utilize the best platforms and strategies for your needs, and apprise you of up-and-coming technology that could benefit your brand. Ready to learn more about our services? Contact us to schedule a consultation.