Here’s another reason to look forward to Valentine’s Day. If watching videos or reading magazines on your Android or iOS device has become part of your daily routine, then mark February 14 on your calendar as DirecTV is working with Sports Illustrated to bring the latter’s annual swimsuit issue to smartphone and tablet users and release it on that day.
The procedure is for users to download an app and hold the phone over the pictures on the magazine to be able to see the video of the photoshoot of the certain model on the picture. A total of 19 videos will be embedded within the magazine and accessible with the use of the app to be released by DirecTV and SI.
How It Works
DirecTV said it used “digital watermarking” technology from Digimarc for the project. This technology allows the app to recognize specific images in the magazine and trigger the corresponding video content. Digital watermarking is a method of embedding information into digital media, which can be detected and read by software but is invisible to the human eye. This ensures that the printed images remain high-quality and uncluttered while still providing a gateway to rich multimedia content.
To use this feature, readers will need to download the dedicated app from either the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. Once installed, they simply open the app and point their device’s camera at the images in the magazine. The app will then recognize the watermarked images and automatically play the associated video content. This seamless integration of print and digital media offers a unique and interactive reading experience.
The Impact on the Magazine Industry
The swimsuit issue is the single most popular issue by Sports Illustrated and its partnership with DirecTV will surely make it even more popular. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in the evolution of print media. By incorporating digital elements into traditional magazines, publishers can offer readers a more engaging and immersive experience. This could potentially attract a younger, tech-savvy audience who might otherwise prefer digital-only content.
Moreover, this initiative could pave the way for other magazines to adopt similar technologies. Imagine flipping through a fashion magazine and being able to watch runway shows or behind-the-scenes footage of photoshoots directly on your smartphone. Or reading a travel magazine and instantly accessing video tours of exotic destinations. The possibilities are endless and could revolutionize the way we consume printed media.
In addition to enhancing the reader’s experience, this technology also opens up new opportunities for advertisers. Brands could embed video ads within the magazine, providing a more dynamic and engaging way to reach their target audience. This could potentially lead to increased advertising revenue for publishers, helping to offset the decline in print sales.
Overall, the partnership between DirecTV and Sports Illustrated is an exciting development for both the magazine industry and consumers. By blending the best of print and digital media, they are creating a new and innovative way to enjoy content. So, if you’re a fan of the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue, be sure to download the app and experience this groundbreaking feature for yourself on February 14.
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