Verizon"s select 5G handsets will come pre-installed with Snapchat as part of a new partnership between the two companies. The new alliance, announced today, aims to develop new customer experiences.
Developmental work will take place at Verizon’s 5G Labs and Snap Inc. will take advantage of Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband technology to manage its augmented reality, visual communications, and content experiences. Snap will also provide Verizon with sponsorship placements within its Snap Originals programming.
Regarding the new tie-up, Frank Boulben, Senior Vice President of Marketing & Products at Verizon Consumer Group, said:
“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. 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.”
One of the new experiences the companies plan to create for consumers applies to live events. Snap"s Landmarker tech, for example, is already used to build location-based entertainment experiences. The company aims to demonstrate the benefits of Verizon"s 5G tech through this application.
Also, Snap"s Portal Lenses are capable of bringing concert goers backstage or letting them experience an in-stadium setting directly from their seat during an event. In addition, Verizon and Snap will collaborate on exclusive distribution and co-marketing efforts.