SelfieSpott is a new text-based photo branding opportunity from CTM Events. Planners can create a graphic overlay with their event’s logo and information. Then when guests text their photo to a designated number, they instantly receive a message back that provides a link to their image with the branded content added. The link has a “flip over” option so additional content, such as photos and sponsor information, can be included on the virtual “back” of the photo. Each SelfieSpott image also has social sharing links included so users can share their customized photo on Facebook and Twitter or via email or text. Planners also receive the mobile number or email of users for later permission-based follow-up.
Lisnr uses ultrasonic audio called “Smart Tones” to transmit information between devices via sound that is inaudible to human ears. The tones can be added to existing media, for example music being played by a DJ, or transmitted on their own. To recognize the tones, guests must be using an app that has the Lisnr API embedded in it as well as enable the microphone on their device. Once that microphone is enabled, the app does not need to be open—which minimizes battery drain—and guests don’t need to have connectivity. In October, Lisnr announced a partnership with Splash, an event marketing platform, to create Smart Tone Ticketing. Attendees receive a Smart Tone ticket via email that can be used to check in at an event, without the need for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or any other form of connectivity.
Facebook is continuing to expand its event promotion and discovery tools. Events From Facebook is a new app that launched in October. Users can browse event recommendations from friends and pages they like, find events using an interactive map, and search for events by city. Actions within the app are visible on Facebook so people can see what their friends are interested in. Earlier in the year, Facebook expanded its Facebook Live video tools. Now hosts can share live video just with people who have responded to an invitation, for example offering behind-the-scenes footage, guest interviews, Q&A sessions, and more.
