Branded Geo-Filters On Snapchat
Snapchat is one of technology’s most unique and innovative methods of keeping in touch with friends and family through a virtual platform. Snapchat recently announced that they are opening up Snapchat filters as part as their current ad platform. Snapchat says that snaps with these types of overlays are already being used on millions of messages sent daily.
Large corporations have been utilizing Snapchat to market their products, services, and brands. For example, if a Snapchat user is within a mile or so of a McDonald’s, they will have access to a McDonald’s themed geo-filter, with their famous “I’m lovin’ it!” slogan, a picture of Ronald McDonald, or some other identifiable marketing feature. This makes users aware that they are within close proximity to a McDonald’s and helps further the McDonald’s brand in a unique and innovative marketing platform.
Multimedia companies are also utilizing Snapchat's technology to market new movies that are coming to theaters. When the latest Hunger Games film was coming to theaters, there was a very popular Snapchat geo-filter that was widely used by users with the title of the movie and the date that it is releasing in theaters. Employing a similar model for both small and large businesses is a highly effective marketing tool that can reach a broad or concentrated network of people, depending on the company. Read How Does SnapChat Make Money? to learn more about Snapchat’s unique marketing opportunities.
What is a Geo-Filter?
Geo-filters are overlays that are used for snaps that can only be accessed in specific locations. Designers and artists are encouraged to use a tool such as this to bring a unique style to the community within Snapchat. All you need to do is choose the geographic area you would want your filter to be marketed in and upload your design. Your geo-filter design for a town, city, landmark, or school must be approved by the team at Snapchat before it can be used on Snapchat.
In most major cities, and now small towns as well, when you are using Snapchat, you can use geo-filters that are specifically created for the area that you are in. Some of them are created by snapchat while brands or the community creates others. When users discover these unique overlays and learn how to use them, it becomes a fun way to communicate with others.
Local Geo-filters
Location-based technology is the driving factor when marketing through geo-filters. For example, a Starbucks using geo-filters recently ran a campaign encouraging users to share their images of their orders. Giving your business’ fans and customers the ability to market for you through Snapchat is a tremendous form of outreach that can have an overwhelmingly positive outcome. If you'd like to see how a geo-filter can benefit your business, click here.
