According to a press release, Verizon and Snap Inc., the creator of Snapchat, announced their partnership to leverage Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband technology to support Snap’s augmented reality (AR), visual communications, and content experiences. As official 5G innovation partners, the companies will work together at Verizon’s 5G Labs to create new experiences for consumers, including opportunities to experience live events in new ways through Snapchat. The partnership will also include premium sponsorship placements within Snap Originals video series.
“5G will change the way people live, work and play and we’re partnering with leading companies like Snap Inc. to create unique experiences and new offerings,” said Frank Boulben, senior vice president of marketing and products for Verizon. “Our strategy is to partner with the best brands to ensure our customers have exclusive access to cutting edge technology and services. Our 5G Ultra Wideband technology should change the way mobile users forever experience places and events, evolving the way they see the world.”
The intent of this deal appears to be Verizon getting its marketing campaigns in front of as many eyes as possible by using Snapchat as a medium. Snap Inc is no stranger to leveraging Snapchat, which they’ve used for Game of Thrones and the Shazam movie. To achieve this goal, Verizon plans to preinstall Snapchat on select 5G phones and provide exclusive offers through strategic programs like Verizon Up.
“Major advances in high-bandwidth experiences are fueling the future of augmented reality,” said Jared Grusd, chief strategy officer of Snap Inc. “We are thrilled to partner with Verizon to move the industry forward through the development of creative and innovative 5G experiences on Snapchat.”
Since April, Verizon has launched 5G Ultra Wideband mobility service in 18 cities as well as 16 sporting and entertainment arenas across the country, and plans to expand to more than 30 cities by the end of this year.
