It is officially launch day for Quibi, the long-awaited and highly-anticipated $1.75 billon project from Jeffrey Katzenberg and Meg Whitman. Short for “quick bites,” Quibi is an app-based streaming platform featuring star-studded shows that are only 6-10 minutes long. With a launch taking place in the middle of COVID-19, many are calling it “ironic” and “not ideal,” but our PR and social media agency feels otherwise – so we decided to look into Quibi’s tactics and share why we think this will actually work:
First and foremost, Quibi has been adaptable. Being a PR agency, Jive has found that no matter the industry it is crucial to be flexible, especially in the current climate. The app was originally designed to be used in those small pockets of time people have throughout the day, like when waiting for an Uber, but with everyone now home they’ve instead had to prepare for binge-watching. This led to them quickly refocusing in order to stress test the system, ensuring it can handle high volumes of users. Quibi also decided to offer a 90-day free trial for the launch, making it a no brainer for everyone at home to at least give the service a try.
Now is the time for out of the box ideas, and that’s exactly what Quibi is. Not only does it focus on short-form content, but it brings in unique tech specifically optimized for digital consumption. With so many people currently at home, Jive actively recommends implementing a digital-first strategy, which is exactly what Quibi is doing. Some of the cool features include its signature turnstile detail that allows viewers to seamlessly switch from vertical to horizontal viewing and its ability to react to smartphone data which allows for shows like “After Dark” to only be streamed after sunset where the user’s phone is located.
Big names and influencers are everything right now and Quibi has capitalized on this. Nearly every show features at least one to two major celebrities creating an automatic fan base and allows Quibi to tap into their large social networks when it comes to promoting these shows. Jive has seen first-hand the positive impact an influencer engagement campaign can have on a brands bottom line so Quibi’s embrace of this type of collaboration will prove as an essential aspect of their success.
Ready to dive into Quibi and see for yourself? With so much content available on the platform, it’s nearly impossible to decide where to start, but the Jive team has you covered with our curated recommendations:
“Flipped”: Starring Will Forte and Kaitlin Olson, the show follows two egomaniacs as their house flipping project takes a turn. Hilarious from start to finish, it’s a must-watch.
“Chrissy’s Court”: Do you have a petty argument you need to settle? With Chrissy Tiegen making judgments, this is one courtroom reality show that will keep you laughing.
“Punk’d”: A revamp of the beloved prank show with Chance the Rapper at the helm.
“The Report by NBC News”: A quick, daily news report that is the perfect way to get the things you need to know, without being drowned in the 24-hour news cycle.
“Nikki Fre$h”: Nicole Richie as a rap star… need we say more?
Only time will tell if the launch is a success or not, but at least for us here at Jive, Quibi seems like the perfect activity for social distancing. Let us know what you think by contacting us and what your favorite Quibi show is over on our Twitter @jiveprdigital.
