Verizon Teams Up with Snap for 5G Augmented Reality Features
Snap has partnered with Verizon Communications Inc to build 5G augmented reality features into Verizon’s labs. Verizon is also the leading carrier in the U.S. market and under the deal with Snap, will be preloading the Snapchat app on some select 5G phones.
Snap has augmented reality features that are capable of overlaying effects on pictures. Its features such as the lenses have been central to its popularity with various users.
Both Verizon and other U.S. wireless carriers are already on an aggressive marketing push to get more of their customers to sign up for 5G which is capable of providing users with up to 20-times faster data speeds than is currently possible with the current 4G LTE (long-term evolution) netw orks.
The deal with Snap is part of Verizon’s quest to incorporate killer apps for 5G wireless networks that will help bring the users on board the platform.
The deal will see Snap work with Verizon’s 5G Labs to build a new augmented reality feature as well as experiences for customers such as new ways of experiencing live sports, concerts and other types of events via Snapchat.
Snap and Verizon are also planning to partner on the exclusive distribution and co-marketing initiatives. Verizon will, for example, preload the Snapchat application on some select 5G phones while also providing customers with exclusive offers via programs such as the VerizonUp rewards program. The deal will also see Verizon offer premium sponsorships in the Snap Original video series.
Some of the areas of joint development that the two companies are exploring include the deployment of Verizon’s 5G network in supercharging Snap’s Landmarker tech which will allow for location-based virtual reality experiences in real-time. The two are also eyeing Snapchat’s Portal Lenses capable of virtually transporting concertgoers backstage or providing sports fans with unique in-stadium experiences.
5G delivers high bandwidth and low latency characteristics which are “fueling augmented reality” according to Jared Grusd, Snap Chief Strategy Officer. Snap hopes its partnership with Verizon will propel the industry forward through the development of innovative and creative 5G experiences on the Snapchat platform.
Verizon has entered into 5G development partnerships with other players in the past including Walt Disney Studios. The most recent is the company’s partnership with NFL which awarded $400,000 to two game developers -Juncture Media and Colorfiction- for the development of football-themed mobile games that leverage Verizon’s 5G network. The games will debut at the Super Bowl LIV.
Verizon has already rolled out 5G Ultra Wideband mobile service across 18 U.S. cities and in 16 sporting and entertainment venues across the U.S. By the end of this year, the company is planning to increase its 5G presence across the country to at least 30.
https://virtualrealitytimes.com/2019/11/23/verizon-teams-up-with-snap-for-5g-augmented-reality-features/https://virtualrealitytimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Snap-Verizon-5G-Augmented-Reality-600x338.jpghttps://virtualrealitytimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Snap-Verizon-5G-Augmented-Reality-150x90.jpgAugmented RealityTechnologySnap has partnered with Verizon Communications Inc to build 5G augmented reality features into Verizon’s labs. Verizon is also the leading carrier in the U.S. market and under the deal with Snap, will be preloading the Snapchat app on some select 5G phones. Snap has augmented reality features that are...Sam OchanjiSam Ochanji[email protected]EditorVirtual Reality Times - Metaverse & VR