Mega-media company Warner Bros. just announced its new CEO -- Kevin Tsujihara.
Although Warner's move was a surprise to many, it shouldn't have been.
Tsujihara has been Warner's primary senior level executive and proponent of the promise of digital media. So, this decision -- by one of the largest media companies in the world -- underscores that even the slow-moving standard bearers now have embraced the reality that digital distribution represents the future of the media business -- i.e., their business.
In that way, Tsujihara's promotion represents a coronation of digital media -- a passing of the distribution baton, as it were.
And, remember, we are still in the relatively early stages of such distribution ....
Kamis, 31 Januari 2013
Rabu, 30 Januari 2013
The End of An Era -- A Tribute
Indulge me on this one.
I just learned the news that my aunt, Eva, passed away last night in Hungary (my mother and father are both Hungarian and emigrated during the 1956 Hungarian Revolution).
A wonderful woman, whom I did not know overly well because of the great distance. But, I remember wonderful times with her as a child as my family and I traveled to reconnect with the family that we did not have here in the States.
A wonderful woman, whom I did not know overly well because of the great distance. But, I remember wonderful times with her as a child as my family and I traveled to reconnect with the family that we did not have here in the States.Apart from the loss of a wonderful woman, this is a significant loss for me and the entire expanded family because it marks an end of an era. You see, Eva was the last of seven siblings -- one of whom was my wonderful and wonderfully talented father, Denes, about whom I wrote a tribute last year. In other words, Eva was the last direct connection to my father and his side of the family.
My wife, Luisa, and I traveled two years ago with our two kids, Hunter (then 11 years old) and Luca (then 8 years old) back to Hungary. It was a "Roots"-type trip -- incredibly meaningful, incredibly impactful. In that trip, my two kids spent precious time with Eva, experiencing the most direct link that was possible since my father passed away long before they were born. This is a picture of the three of them at our family reunion on that trip. The three of them could not speak the same language for the most part (my aunt knew only broken English, and my kids know no Hungarian), but they "spoke" the same language of family ... a language that need not be spoken. It is experienced.
I am thankful that we took the time.
Time is short. Take the time.
Rest in peace, Eva. Your memory ... and our wonderful memories together ... live on.
k(NOT)ted Vine -- Because Life Doesn't Happen In 6 Seconds ...
The digerati have essentially crowned Twitter's new "Instagram for Video" app, Vine, the King of all that is mobile video.
But, although I too have coo'd over Vine, let's not forget that it is first and foremost a public sharing app. Its mandatory 6-second video rule -- while emancipating in some ways -- also is significantly restrictive in others ...
... particularly in the private mobile video sharing context -- a topic about which I have frequently written (including these two guest posts in TechCrunch): (1) Instagram for Video -- Massive Opportunity Yes! Done Right No!; and Instagram for Video -- Music, Meaning and Moments Succeed Where Others Fail.
Vine IS the most compelling PUBLIC video sharing app right now -- which already is a huge claim to fame (and no small feat).
But, don't forget my earlier thoughts (laid out in detail in both of my TechCrunch pieces) about perhaps the biggest mobile video opportunity -- and, that is, PRIVATE secure sharing of life's special moments with family and friends. In this context -- this incredibly important context from an overall monetization opportunity on a massive scale -- Vine does not cut it. It just don't work.
Why? Precisely because life does not happen in 6 seconds! Recording your baby's first steps? Then you better not use Vine because she or he may finally stop wobbling and take that first step on second 7 or 8! And, poof! That moment would be lost forever!
That's where mobile sharing without limits is absolutely critical.
So, while Vine is a compelling (perhaps most compelling) public sharing app, that' all that it is (which is enough for Twitter/Vine by the way ... they do have a built-in audience!).
For slices of life -- real life moments in time -- the market and massive opportunity is still up for grabs.
Don't Givit away. Go grab it!
But, although I too have coo'd over Vine, let's not forget that it is first and foremost a public sharing app. Its mandatory 6-second video rule -- while emancipating in some ways -- also is significantly restrictive in others ...
... particularly in the private mobile video sharing context -- a topic about which I have frequently written (including these two guest posts in TechCrunch): (1) Instagram for Video -- Massive Opportunity Yes! Done Right No!; and Instagram for Video -- Music, Meaning and Moments Succeed Where Others Fail.
Vine IS the most compelling PUBLIC video sharing app right now -- which already is a huge claim to fame (and no small feat).
But, don't forget my earlier thoughts (laid out in detail in both of my TechCrunch pieces) about perhaps the biggest mobile video opportunity -- and, that is, PRIVATE secure sharing of life's special moments with family and friends. In this context -- this incredibly important context from an overall monetization opportunity on a massive scale -- Vine does not cut it. It just don't work.
Why? Precisely because life does not happen in 6 seconds! Recording your baby's first steps? Then you better not use Vine because she or he may finally stop wobbling and take that first step on second 7 or 8! And, poof! That moment would be lost forever!
That's where mobile sharing without limits is absolutely critical.
So, while Vine is a compelling (perhaps most compelling) public sharing app, that' all that it is (which is enough for Twitter/Vine by the way ... they do have a built-in audience!).
For slices of life -- real life moments in time -- the market and massive opportunity is still up for grabs.
Don't Givit away. Go grab it!
Selasa, 29 Januari 2013
HEVC (H.265) Adoption May Be Sooner Than You Think
A few days back, in my company Sorenson Media's official blog (which I also write), I referred to a post by online video analyst and expert Dan Rayburn which questioned whether new video format HEVC (H.265) would see any real "adoption for consumer services" in the next 5 years. Dan -- and the respected firm Frost & Sullivan, in which he is a principal analyst -- are skeptical.
A couple days later, online video pundit Ryan Lawler reported the news that the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) -- er, the organization that matters for this type of thing (that's all you need to know) -- approved the new H.265 format/specs. Based on this important development (because approval of any new video format standard is fraught with peril), Lawler concludes that the relevant time-frame may be significantly shorter. In his words:
It could be 12 to 18 months, maybe longer, before the first devices with H.265 hardware acceleration make it to market. Once those initial devices do make it to market, however, we can probably expect a quick ramp up in the amount of content that begins to take advantage of H.265. Since the launch of the iPad, the percentage of video published in H.264 has climbed from less than 10 percent to more than 84 percent in less than three years, according to MeFeedia.
Who's right? Of course no one knows for sure. Not even us here at Sorenson Media (and new video standards are our game).
One thing we DO know, however, is that video professionals (like you reading this post in Hollywood) must be prepared. And, my company and I believe that significant adoption of H.265 is not a question of "if" (like it was for Google's WebM initiative), but rather a question of "when." That's why HEVC/H.265 absolutely is prioritized high on our internal product roadmap.
Dan Rayburn -- responding to some of my questions -- correctly points out that "no technology gets deployed quickly." But, even Dan believes H.265 will achieve significant consumer adoption. Just not in the next 18 months.
That means you should be prepared for it now.
Jim Sorenson Gifts $13 Million to Fund "Social Entrepreneurship"
Founder & Chairman of Sorenson Media, James Lee Sorenson, recently generously donated $13 million to University of Utah's Business School to fund "social entrepreneurship" via the new "James Lee Sorenson Global Impact Center." The Center opens today.
Read more about the amazing social entrepreneurship initiatives this makes possible -- and how these funds literally will help drive significant positive social change around the world.
And, this is just one example of Jim's and his family's generosity over the years.
Great man. Great mission.
It's been an honor to work closely with him for the past four years here at Sorenson Media, a company he founded more than a decade ago (and which has been at the forefront of online video innovation ever since).
Senin, 28 Januari 2013
Vine -- Advertisers Grabbing On -- A Good Sign for Twitter
Twitter's new VINE "Instagram for Video" app is all the buzz in the tech and digital media worlds since its launch last week. I already wrote two posts on the subject and commented several times on TechCrunch.
Now, a new "must read" TechCrunch article writes about Vine's immediate appeal and interest by major consumer brands like Trident (gum), Dove (beauty products) and Ritz (crackers).
But, how can those consumer brands -- or anyone for that matter -- tell a compelling story in Vine's mandatory 6-second window?
You be the judge -- all of those initial Vines can be seen in the TechCrunch post. At a minimum, those 6 seconds force economy in creativity. And, perhaps those little bits are most effectively digested in this increasingly ADD world of ours.
At a minimum, this kind of immediate attention by Madison Avenue is demonstrative proof that Vine already has risen above the fray of the scores of others seeking "Instagram for video" fame and fortune. Vine ain't no copycat. It is a fresh approach, effectively executed. And, it certainly doesn't hurt to have the good folks at Twitter behind it -- enabling immediate integrated posting into your Twitter stream ....
Now, a new "must read" TechCrunch article writes about Vine's immediate appeal and interest by major consumer brands like Trident (gum), Dove (beauty products) and Ritz (crackers).
But, how can those consumer brands -- or anyone for that matter -- tell a compelling story in Vine's mandatory 6-second window?
You be the judge -- all of those initial Vines can be seen in the TechCrunch post. At a minimum, those 6 seconds force economy in creativity. And, perhaps those little bits are most effectively digested in this increasingly ADD world of ours.
At a minimum, this kind of immediate attention by Madison Avenue is demonstrative proof that Vine already has risen above the fray of the scores of others seeking "Instagram for video" fame and fortune. Vine ain't no copycat. It is a fresh approach, effectively executed. And, it certainly doesn't hurt to have the good folks at Twitter behind it -- enabling immediate integrated posting into your Twitter stream ....
Minggu, 27 Januari 2013
Coachella 2013 Headliners -- REALLY???
HUGE news for passionate music and festival fans like me -- the Coachella 2013 line-up was just announced! Imagine my anticipation as I clicked on the link ... and then confusion ... and then a bit of deflation ...
Here are the headliners -- the Stone Roses (Friday), Phoenix (Saturday), and Red Hot Chili Peppers (Sunday). REALLY? Compare these headliners to last year's -- The Black Keys, Radiohead, Snoop Dogg & Dr. Dre.
And, remember, the rumor was that the Stones would headline ...
Okay, okay, okay -- the headliners disappoint. How about the rest? Here are my "must sees" for each night:
FRIDAY
Band of Horses, Beach House, Metric, of Monsters & Men, Alt-j, Youth Lagoon
SATURDAY
New Order, Grizzly Bear, Moby, Yeasayer, Major Lazer
SUNDAY
Vampire Weekend, Social Distortion, the Lumineers, Grimes, Airborne Toxic Event
All in all, my initial reaction -- which is shared by my fellow music lover and Coachella brother (as well as brother-in-law) -- is a bit of being "dazed and confused."
Maybe when I wake-up tomorrow morning I will think differently. But, for now, I am sleeping on it ....
Jumat, 25 Januari 2013
Vine -- The "Instagram for Video" Holy Grail? My Verdict
REVISED 1/25/13 at 3:55 pm PT
My TechCrunch guest post titled "Instagram for Video -- Music, Meaning & Moments Succeed Where Others Fail" -- went live this past weekend and generated a lot of interest in a topic that is obviously top of mind (judging by the over 600 retweets). Bottom line -- the race to be the next "Instagram for Video" is on.
Since my post went live just a few days back, several important and relevant developments -- most notably, that Twitter's "Vine" video sharing app is live as of today and available via the App Store. The screaming headlines are that Vine is video sharing made fun and easy -- all in 6 seconds (the mandatory length of videos that can be created).
No more. No less. 6 seconds it is. Take it or leave it.
So, how do I think Vine measures up -- especially with my inherent skepticism over this 6 second rule?
I was on a mission -- I had to know. So, I downloaded the app. Watched the video tutorial. And was off to the races.
INSTANT "GUT REACTION"/VERDICT -- I LIKE IT (a lot more than I thought I would). And, Vine definitely has the potential to be a big winner, especially with Twitter behind it (at the risk of stating the obvious). It is a winner for the U/X as well. Not sure this is the holy grail of mobile video (that is, THE Instagram for video), but it certainly is the Twitter for Video. And, that alone is big news.
HITS
-- it is easy -- easy -- easy
-- makes brilliant HD videos
-- the auto editing feature works brilliantly
-- easy captioning -- critical for finding relevant videos
-- easy commenting -- highly social
-- video brevity could foster creativity -- jury is out
-- I can see how Vine could be addictive
MISSES
-- you can't record yourself when you hold your phone (i.e., you can't reverse the iPhone camera while you record) -- must touch the screen to record video with camera looking only forward
-- in fact, I couldn't find a way to share my Vine video with one-click -- if there is one, it certainly ain't intuitive
-- in fact, I tried searching my own name in Vine to see if I could share it that way, and my Vine profile didn't even show up when I typed in my first and last name (strange)
-- the mandatory "6 second rule" is limiting, even if it fosters creativity
On the last point -- which is perhaps THE critical U/X issue for Vine's success -- yes, I understand the "brevity is the soul of wit" rationale. After all, Vine comes to you from the good folks of Twitter. But, while Twitter has its maximum 140 character limit, there is no minimum. There is here with Vine.
Being in the video business, I know another real-world justification for the 6-second rule (at least in terms of the maximum). Video is an entirely different animal than still photos in terms of file size/data at play for two fundamental reasons: (1) streaming costs are involved; and (2) much more significantly, storage of all that video data (compared to stills) is expensive and fundamentally alters business models. I wrote about these real-world considerations in a second TechCrunch piece.
Brevity, in video, is the soul of monetization wit (or at least the possibility of ever having a video sharing service justify itself with a real-world business model).
As indicated above, Vine is a great video Twitter. But is it more? Well, in my TechCrunch piece from this weekend, I identify two fundamental hurdles to mass adoption of a mobile video service: (1) navigation -- i.e., finding videos that "matter" to you; and (2) video "engagement" -- i.e., videos that are worthy of your limited time and attention span (via "communities of interest"). So, how does Vine faire in those two respects?
Vine solves the first problem by enabling the user to title their Vine video, so that the viewer can judge its relevance to them by more than a mere thumbnail. In other words, Vine passes the first test.
But, how about test #2 -- engagement? Here, the jury is obviously still out, because it all depends on how Vine is used. Certainly, Vine videos conceptually can be organized around topics of mass interest - including the "communities of interest" I discuss in my TechCrunch piece (music, meaning, and moments). It is simply too early to tell if that will be the case (but it is logical that it will be). And, if this happens, then the folks at Twitter really got something here.
I DO believe that Vine is missing an obvious "mass appeal" use case right now, however -- and that is the video "soapbox" use case where someone with a personal following (e.g., lots of Twitter followers) could use Vine to spout off on any given topic for 6 seconds (and that person's Twitter followers would care). As I understand things, this is simply essentially impossible now because the Vine user, as noted above, canNOT record themselves with the backward facing camera.
I would like that use case. And, I know there are many others out there like me.
And, that means opportunity ....
My TechCrunch guest post titled "Instagram for Video -- Music, Meaning & Moments Succeed Where Others Fail" -- went live this past weekend and generated a lot of interest in a topic that is obviously top of mind (judging by the over 600 retweets). Bottom line -- the race to be the next "Instagram for Video" is on.
Since my post went live just a few days back, several important and relevant developments -- most notably, that Twitter's "Vine" video sharing app is live as of today and available via the App Store. The screaming headlines are that Vine is video sharing made fun and easy -- all in 6 seconds (the mandatory length of videos that can be created).
No more. No less. 6 seconds it is. Take it or leave it.
So, how do I think Vine measures up -- especially with my inherent skepticism over this 6 second rule?
I was on a mission -- I had to know. So, I downloaded the app. Watched the video tutorial. And was off to the races.
INSTANT "GUT REACTION"/VERDICT -- I LIKE IT (a lot more than I thought I would). And, Vine definitely has the potential to be a big winner, especially with Twitter behind it (at the risk of stating the obvious). It is a winner for the U/X as well. Not sure this is the holy grail of mobile video (that is, THE Instagram for video), but it certainly is the Twitter for Video. And, that alone is big news.
HITS
-- it is easy -- easy -- easy
-- makes brilliant HD videos
-- the auto editing feature works brilliantly
-- easy captioning -- critical for finding relevant videos
-- easy commenting -- highly social
-- video brevity could foster creativity -- jury is out
-- I can see how Vine could be addictive
-- you can't record yourself when you hold your phone (i.e., you can't reverse the iPhone camera while you record) -- must touch the screen to record video with camera looking only forward
-- in fact, I couldn't find a way to share my Vine video with one-click -- if there is one, it certainly ain't intuitive
-- in fact, I tried searching my own name in Vine to see if I could share it that way, and my Vine profile didn't even show up when I typed in my first and last name (strange)
-- the mandatory "6 second rule" is limiting, even if it fosters creativity
On the last point -- which is perhaps THE critical U/X issue for Vine's success -- yes, I understand the "brevity is the soul of wit" rationale. After all, Vine comes to you from the good folks of Twitter. But, while Twitter has its maximum 140 character limit, there is no minimum. There is here with Vine.
Being in the video business, I know another real-world justification for the 6-second rule (at least in terms of the maximum). Video is an entirely different animal than still photos in terms of file size/data at play for two fundamental reasons: (1) streaming costs are involved; and (2) much more significantly, storage of all that video data (compared to stills) is expensive and fundamentally alters business models. I wrote about these real-world considerations in a second TechCrunch piece.
Brevity, in video, is the soul of monetization wit (or at least the possibility of ever having a video sharing service justify itself with a real-world business model).
As indicated above, Vine is a great video Twitter. But is it more? Well, in my TechCrunch piece from this weekend, I identify two fundamental hurdles to mass adoption of a mobile video service: (1) navigation -- i.e., finding videos that "matter" to you; and (2) video "engagement" -- i.e., videos that are worthy of your limited time and attention span (via "communities of interest"). So, how does Vine faire in those two respects?
Vine solves the first problem by enabling the user to title their Vine video, so that the viewer can judge its relevance to them by more than a mere thumbnail. In other words, Vine passes the first test.
But, how about test #2 -- engagement? Here, the jury is obviously still out, because it all depends on how Vine is used. Certainly, Vine videos conceptually can be organized around topics of mass interest - including the "communities of interest" I discuss in my TechCrunch piece (music, meaning, and moments). It is simply too early to tell if that will be the case (but it is logical that it will be). And, if this happens, then the folks at Twitter really got something here.
I DO believe that Vine is missing an obvious "mass appeal" use case right now, however -- and that is the video "soapbox" use case where someone with a personal following (e.g., lots of Twitter followers) could use Vine to spout off on any given topic for 6 seconds (and that person's Twitter followers would care). As I understand things, this is simply essentially impossible now because the Vine user, as noted above, canNOT record themselves with the backward facing camera.
I would like that use case. And, I know there are many others out there like me.
And, that means opportunity ....
Kamis, 24 Januari 2013
A Tale of Two Companies -- Netflix & Apple (and Their Quarterly Earnings)
It is the best of times -- and the worst of times -- for two digital media giants (well, one of the two towers over the other and all others, but they are both "giants" nonetheless in terms of mind-share in the tech world).
Good times for Netflix.
For Apple, not so much.
Both just reported quarterly earnings -- and Netflix surprised the Street (on the positive side), causing the company's shares to skyrocket 34% to $138 in after-hours trading! (Still well below previous highs of about $300 -- but, 34% is 34%).
Apple didn't exactly surprise -- but, it did "miss" Street expectations, sending its shares down significantly. Apple shares now trade around $500 (where not so long ago they traded at about $700). Many Apple investors -- including me -- are getting a bit nervous about how the massive ship (which now counts over $130 billion in cash assets) will steer itself into continued high growth amid the mounting competition in all product categories.
I have one answer. The long-rumored iTV -- which, if done right, could open up the whole world of your living room to Apple.
But, doing it "right" isn't easy. As I have written several times before, ultimately, it is about the content available on the iTV (and how compelling the overall hardware/software/content execution is from a U/X perspective). And, not only does the critical content not come cheap, it may not come at all to Apple (due to the wariness of significant interests who would not welcome the Apple challenge).
Given that downright sobering reality, Apple must "think different" about how to solve this dilemma.
I previously offered a solution -- buy Dish Networks (you can read my full analysis here).
Good times for Netflix.
For Apple, not so much.
Both just reported quarterly earnings -- and Netflix surprised the Street (on the positive side), causing the company's shares to skyrocket 34% to $138 in after-hours trading! (Still well below previous highs of about $300 -- but, 34% is 34%).
Apple didn't exactly surprise -- but, it did "miss" Street expectations, sending its shares down significantly. Apple shares now trade around $500 (where not so long ago they traded at about $700). Many Apple investors -- including me -- are getting a bit nervous about how the massive ship (which now counts over $130 billion in cash assets) will steer itself into continued high growth amid the mounting competition in all product categories.
I have one answer. The long-rumored iTV -- which, if done right, could open up the whole world of your living room to Apple.
But, doing it "right" isn't easy. As I have written several times before, ultimately, it is about the content available on the iTV (and how compelling the overall hardware/software/content execution is from a U/X perspective). And, not only does the critical content not come cheap, it may not come at all to Apple (due to the wariness of significant interests who would not welcome the Apple challenge).
Given that downright sobering reality, Apple must "think different" about how to solve this dilemma.
I previously offered a solution -- buy Dish Networks (you can read my full analysis here).
Selasa, 22 Januari 2013
Coachella 2013 -- NEW OFFICIAL Video
New Coachella 2013 video just posted on Coachella's official site a couple hours back ... the line-up must be just around the corner (finally!).
Senin, 21 Januari 2013
My TechCrunch & HuffPo Guest Posts -- Curated
Obviously, I like to write. I have written 1,171 posts for this blog, to be precise.
I also like to write for TechCrunch, The Huffington Post and others. Just yesterday, TechCrunch pushed live my latest guest post -- "Instagram for Video -- Music, Meaning and Moments Succeed Where Others Fail." Check it out -- I identify specific companies that I believe have an opportunity to make it big.
This was a companion piece to my earlier TechCrunch piece from a few months back titled "Instagram for Video -- Massive Opportunity, Yes! Done Right, No!"
A few months before that, TechCrunch posted my piece titled "Online Video vs. Music -- Different Game, Same Rules".
And, before that, TechCrunch posted my guest post titled "Apple Schooled Music Execs Then, Here Are the Lessons Online Video Should Learn Now".
Separately, a few months back, The Huffington Post featured my guest post titled "Indie Filmmakers and The Digital Dilemma."
Check them out -- and, if you read anything you like, spread the word! And, thanks for reading. Let me know what you think.
Minggu, 20 Januari 2013
500 Followers on Twitter -- A Personal Milestone
On the heels of my latest TechCrunch guest post (just pushed live earlier this morning), I just reached my personal Twitter milestone of 500 followers.
Now, I will try to have something meaningful (or at least somewhat entertaining) to say to you and them!
Thanks for reading. I write a lot. It takes a lot of time and thought (even if some times it doesn't seem like it). Glad to know that there is an audience for it. Otherwise, if a blog piece is written and there is no one there to read it, does it make a sound?
Now, I will try to have something meaningful (or at least somewhat entertaining) to say to you and them!
Thanks for reading. I write a lot. It takes a lot of time and thought (even if some times it doesn't seem like it). Glad to know that there is an audience for it. Otherwise, if a blog piece is written and there is no one there to read it, does it make a sound?
My Latest TechCrunch Guest Post -- "Instagram for Video" Winners
My latest guest post for TechCrunch was just pushed live -- "Instagram for Video -- Music, Meaning, and Moments Succeed Where Others Fail."
Enjoy it -- let me know what you think by commenting -- and feel free to spread the word by retweeting, etc.
Enjoy it -- let me know what you think by commenting -- and feel free to spread the word by retweeting, etc.
Kamis, 17 Januari 2013
Video Star Part 2 -- Real Videos, Real Artists
I just heard from Video Star's co-founder Barry Braksick who read my post. He shared with my some of his favorite videos made with Video Star, including this one by recording artist Jenn Bostic. And, here are links to some of Barry's other favorite Video Star-made vids (which show just some of the power of this cool app). Enjoy!
MUST CHECK OUT App -- Video Star
If you haven't heard of the free app "Video Star," run, don't walk to your local App Store (especially if you have kids 8-18, which is the app's core demographic). Video Star gives anyone the ability to easily create compelling music videos. I recently caught up and spoke with Video Star's co-founder, Barry Bracksick.
Video Star is a ... er ... star. It's just about everything a video-focused app should be. Fun. Easy-to-use. Creative. Compelling. "Share-worthy" videos. Where virtually all other public share-focused "Instagram for video" apps fail, Video Star succeeds.
Video Star understands that it is the content, stupid, that matters -- i.e., sharing is not enough. Without compelling video content, videos (unlike Instagram-like still photos) are not share-worthy. Why? Because mobile video is fundamentally different as a medium compared to mobile photos. Engagement with videos -- i.e., finding those that are worthy of your time -- is a very different animal. Story-telling is important here. So are navigational short-hands or guideposts to separate the wheat from the chafe. Virtually no current mobile video apps (even those with significant initial traction) embrace these fundamental differences -- they simply focus on general mobile video sharing. And, they will ultimately fail because of it.
Video Star is a ... er ... star. It's just about everything a video-focused app should be. Fun. Easy-to-use. Creative. Compelling. "Share-worthy" videos. Where virtually all other public share-focused "Instagram for video" apps fail, Video Star succeeds.
Video Star understands that it is the content, stupid, that matters -- i.e., sharing is not enough. Without compelling video content, videos (unlike Instagram-like still photos) are not share-worthy. Why? Because mobile video is fundamentally different as a medium compared to mobile photos. Engagement with videos -- i.e., finding those that are worthy of your time -- is a very different animal. Story-telling is important here. So are navigational short-hands or guideposts to separate the wheat from the chafe. Virtually no current mobile video apps (even those with significant initial traction) embrace these fundamental differences -- they simply focus on general mobile video sharing. And, they will ultimately fail because of it.
Back to Video Star -- which is no "Instagram for video" clone. Video Star, of course, lives in the milieu of music. And, music solves these fundamental video issues/challenges. An underlying music soundtrack – especially one known to a broad audience – becomes a central part of the “story” and adds the critical ingredient of relevance. And, that means more engagement and virality amongst already-rabid fans. Music also can help the audience efficiently find the videos that matter to them. Artists and songs – especially those known to a broad audience – can serve as critical navigational guideposts. They certainly convey more universality than a video thumbnail.
Music gives Video Star users their underlying narrative drive (i.e., the story's foundation), and the app fosters creativity and thought before video capture begins. It also offers instant filters and automates editing (the video is always in synch with the music) to optimize ease-of-use – in other words, the technology gets out of the way so that users can focus on the act of creation. That means better content, and that means enhanced universality, video engagement and sharing.
I have seen Video Star in action with my own Instagram-using kids who made their own shockingly good Skrillex video (note to self: always look to what the kids are using). They herded together a bunch of their friends for a few hours for that video alone. It was fun for them. And, it was highly creative and collaborative film-making. Certainly beat watching TV or playing video games solo. The end result was quite incredible, really. In fact, the kids screened the video for us -- and we parents were quite impressed (and not just because our kids were involved). It was just a damn good video. So much so that one of the parents wanted to instantly share it with the anonymous world of YouTube (until I thought the better of it for privacy reasons).
I could imagine youth/kid-focused companies like Disney or Viacom/Nickelodeon being interested in acquiring the company behind Video Star, as well as music-focused services – like Vevo. The app is definitely fueled by passion. And, it isn't just for kids. The company tells me that Video Star is so good that real bonified musical artists now use it to create their own music videos.
Rabu, 16 Januari 2013
Nielsen Report -- Cord Cutting Is Real
Cord cutting is real and happening in significant numbers now, concludes a new research report by Nielsen (which is significant itself, given Nielsen's long-time central role in television audience measurement). The report measured year-over-year changes from Q3 2011 - Q3 2012.
Here are some of the report's key findings:
-- U.S. individuals spend 33 hours per week watch videos across all screens
-- the number of homes subscribing to wired cable television services decreased 4.1%
-- at the same time, telco-provided television services increased 21.1% and satellite television increased 2.1%
-- "nearly a million more homes are subscribing to broadband while skipping a traditional paid tv subscription"
-- the number of broadcast/broadband only "television" homes increased 22.8% in the two year period Q3 2010 - Q3 2012
With the continuous string of new online content mega-deals by Netflix, Amazon and others, this trend likely will accelerate.
Here are some of the report's key findings:
-- U.S. individuals spend 33 hours per week watch videos across all screens
-- the number of homes subscribing to wired cable television services decreased 4.1%
-- at the same time, telco-provided television services increased 21.1% and satellite television increased 2.1%
-- "nearly a million more homes are subscribing to broadband while skipping a traditional paid tv subscription"
-- the number of broadcast/broadband only "television" homes increased 22.8% in the two year period Q3 2010 - Q3 2012
With the continuous string of new online content mega-deals by Netflix, Amazon and others, this trend likely will accelerate.
Senin, 14 Januari 2013
Entrepreneurs -- A Day In the Life. My Life.
Entrepreneurs never sleep. Always thinking. Always doing.
I am guilty on all counts.
Here's my typical day, which I don't believe is atypical for an entrepreneur in the digital media/tech world (or in any world, for that matter). I write it as an illustration of what I believe is necessary to "make it happen" both professionally and personally -- and, that is, total commitment and passion.
-- up between 4-5 AM (sometimes even earlier) ... don't ask
-- write my blogs (this one, Sorenson Media's, guest posts), review the blogs and news of others, and catch up on all emails until 5:45 AM
-- at the gym right when it opens at 6 AM
-- work out from 6-7 AM (it's a commitment I made to myself long ago to stay disciplined and fit)
-- come home, have breakfast with the kids until 7:45-8 AM
-- in the office between 8-8:30 AM
-- in the office working all day (when not traveling), usually eating lunch at my desk
-- leave the office between 4:30-5:30 PM to get home to have dinner every night with the family (it's a commitment I made to myself long ago, following in the footsteps of my father, also an entrepreneur)
-- work anywhere between 1-2.5 hours nightly and finish all emails for the day
-- put my kids to bed, joke around with them, make sure they feel loved and have smiles on their faces when they go to bed (most of the time I succeed)
-- watch Jon Stewart with my wife, laugh hysterically, asleep by 11 PM
-- dream big, wake up (frequently too early) with ideas I jump up to pursue
Wash. Rinse. Repeat.
You will note that this means roughly 10-12 hours of professionally-focused activities on average each day (and certainly there are more hours on weekends, like this post that I am writing now). But, I really don't consider it to be "work" -- I consider it to be creative. That's why I call it "professionally focused activities." And, I feel fortunate to have a career that empowers me to do it this way -- my way.
It's the way I'm made ....
(For another "take" on the level of commitment necessary to succeed as an entrepreneur, read this article from Inc. Magazine.) (to be clear, I don't consider myself to be "remarkably successful", so don't hold that article's title against me; but, I do consider myself to be remarkably fortunate ....).
I am guilty on all counts.
Here's my typical day, which I don't believe is atypical for an entrepreneur in the digital media/tech world (or in any world, for that matter). I write it as an illustration of what I believe is necessary to "make it happen" both professionally and personally -- and, that is, total commitment and passion.
-- up between 4-5 AM (sometimes even earlier) ... don't ask
-- write my blogs (this one, Sorenson Media's, guest posts), review the blogs and news of others, and catch up on all emails until 5:45 AM
-- at the gym right when it opens at 6 AM
-- work out from 6-7 AM (it's a commitment I made to myself long ago to stay disciplined and fit)
-- come home, have breakfast with the kids until 7:45-8 AM
-- in the office between 8-8:30 AM
-- in the office working all day (when not traveling), usually eating lunch at my desk
-- leave the office between 4:30-5:30 PM to get home to have dinner every night with the family (it's a commitment I made to myself long ago, following in the footsteps of my father, also an entrepreneur)
-- work anywhere between 1-2.5 hours nightly and finish all emails for the day
-- put my kids to bed, joke around with them, make sure they feel loved and have smiles on their faces when they go to bed (most of the time I succeed)
-- watch Jon Stewart with my wife, laugh hysterically, asleep by 11 PM
-- dream big, wake up (frequently too early) with ideas I jump up to pursue
Wash. Rinse. Repeat.
You will note that this means roughly 10-12 hours of professionally-focused activities on average each day (and certainly there are more hours on weekends, like this post that I am writing now). But, I really don't consider it to be "work" -- I consider it to be creative. That's why I call it "professionally focused activities." And, I feel fortunate to have a career that empowers me to do it this way -- my way.
It's the way I'm made ....
(For another "take" on the level of commitment necessary to succeed as an entrepreneur, read this article from Inc. Magazine.) (to be clear, I don't consider myself to be "remarkably successful", so don't hold that article's title against me; but, I do consider myself to be remarkably fortunate ....).
Jumat, 11 Januari 2013
Intel May Do What Apple Can't -- Lead The "Unbundling" Revolution
I have written literally for years now that Apple inevitably will launch an "all-in-one" flat-screen iTV to penetrate the living room -- the last bastion it has yet to dominate (I predicted 2012, but now it looks like this year). The major stumbling block -- and likely the ONLY stumbling block at this point (since my bet is that the hardware design has long been developed) -- is the services piece. And, even more specifically, the key television content (think ESPN here) necessary for Apple to revolutionize the over-the-top (non traditional cable) television experience. To go boldly where others like Apple have tried to go before ... but have failed so far.
This is the "unbundling" dilemma facing Internet-based OTT service providers (Netflix, Google, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Vudu) in their continuing battles against the cable incumbents who refuse to allow content providers (like ESPN) license their content stripped out (i.e., unbundled) from traditional cable packages of multiple channels. The OTT guys want to offer consumers a la carte "cable" programming. The Cable/IPTV guys do not (for now).
So, who will win this battle royale? Ultimately, consumers always win. If they want something -- like individual channels (ESPN) -- they will get them, and business models will adapt. Consumers likely will pay more for those precise channels they want. And other channels simply will need to adapt their programming in order to survive.
What about the big cable guys? What does this mean for them? Well, they will increasingly become the purveyor of the pipes necessary to optimize the overall online television revolution (which ain't a bad thing, by the way, because those broadband services are much higher margin businesses than the content service provider businesses themselves).
Perhaps surprisingly, tech "dinosaur" Intel may be the one to crack the code -- to begin this unbundling revolution. Why Intel? Because Intel soon will launch its new virtual cable OTT television service. And, Intel is taking a novel approach -- actually a similar approach to what Google is doing -- which is to roll out its new service on a city-by-city basis (rather than national) so that it may have more flexibility in negotiating key programming license agreements (including perhaps the holy grail of ESPN). According to TechCrunch, this plan "also lets Intel work around holdouts in key market rather than having to delay a launch entirely."
But, wait, there's more. At least one cable behemoth is not threatened by Intel's pursuit of the living room -- and is actually joining Intel on the couch! That one brave soul, for now, is Comcast. Future hardware with Intel chips apparently will be able to stream live Comcast Xfinity programming within the home and without the need for a traditional cable box (here are more details hot off the presses at CES).
One more cool thing. It is reported that Intel's new virtual cable TV service also may try to make DVRs a thing of the past. How? According to TechCrunch, "Intel's technology could allow people to recall and watch any programming aired in the last month on the channels they subscribe to. That means no worrying about scheduling what to record."
This is the "unbundling" dilemma facing Internet-based OTT service providers (Netflix, Google, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Vudu) in their continuing battles against the cable incumbents who refuse to allow content providers (like ESPN) license their content stripped out (i.e., unbundled) from traditional cable packages of multiple channels. The OTT guys want to offer consumers a la carte "cable" programming. The Cable/IPTV guys do not (for now).
So, who will win this battle royale? Ultimately, consumers always win. If they want something -- like individual channels (ESPN) -- they will get them, and business models will adapt. Consumers likely will pay more for those precise channels they want. And other channels simply will need to adapt their programming in order to survive.
What about the big cable guys? What does this mean for them? Well, they will increasingly become the purveyor of the pipes necessary to optimize the overall online television revolution (which ain't a bad thing, by the way, because those broadband services are much higher margin businesses than the content service provider businesses themselves).
Perhaps surprisingly, tech "dinosaur" Intel may be the one to crack the code -- to begin this unbundling revolution. Why Intel? Because Intel soon will launch its new virtual cable OTT television service. And, Intel is taking a novel approach -- actually a similar approach to what Google is doing -- which is to roll out its new service on a city-by-city basis (rather than national) so that it may have more flexibility in negotiating key programming license agreements (including perhaps the holy grail of ESPN). According to TechCrunch, this plan "also lets Intel work around holdouts in key market rather than having to delay a launch entirely."
But, wait, there's more. At least one cable behemoth is not threatened by Intel's pursuit of the living room -- and is actually joining Intel on the couch! That one brave soul, for now, is Comcast. Future hardware with Intel chips apparently will be able to stream live Comcast Xfinity programming within the home and without the need for a traditional cable box (here are more details hot off the presses at CES).
One more cool thing. It is reported that Intel's new virtual cable TV service also may try to make DVRs a thing of the past. How? According to TechCrunch, "Intel's technology could allow people to recall and watch any programming aired in the last month on the channels they subscribe to. That means no worrying about scheduling what to record."
Kamis, 10 Januari 2013
In Praise Of Converse All*Stars -- In Praise of True Partnerships
 |
| Sneaker-Cam -- the view of my All*Stars from my desk at Sorenson Media |
Case in point -- these shoes were my constant companion on my recent epic adventure with my wife, Luisa, on the inaugural SS Coachella cruise (a full review of which is here.)
So, why am I writing this?
Because I just recently re-connected with Geoff Cottrill, a great and talented guy who is the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) for Converse. Cottrill is a force. High energy. Immensely creative. And, instantly likable. I took this picture from my desk immediately after I caught up with him and just happened to be wearing my Converse sneaks that very day. I texted this pic to him. And, I showcase it here, because it reflects my state of mind -- the "attitude" within which I like to work. This is the view from my desk where, just beyond my All*Stars, you will see my framed autographed record and picture of U2 (a classic iconic band that fits perfectly with my iconic sneaks). These sneaks also represent so much more. Here's why.
How do I know Cottrill? From my days at Universal Studios and his days at Coca-Cola. We met when we sat on opposite sides of the table negotiating a mega corporate sponsorship agreement valued at hundreds of millions of dollars -- the deal was so big that it was featured in the Wall Street Journal.
Cottrill and I bonded. Challenging negotiations. But, ultimately a great result for all involved. And, it was constructive during the whole wild ride. More than constructive. It flowed. We hit it off. We stayed in touch. And, we did another big and innovative deal when I was President & COO of online music pioneer Musicmatch. The Musicmatch/Coke deal broke new ground at the time. Back to the Universal Studios/Coke deal. I remember finalizing the deal about 2 am in Atlanta and then going to celebrate with him in a greasy-spoon Atlanta diner at about 3 am -- and I remember our shared passion for music and playing "In the Air Tonight" on the diner's juke box. We were exhausted, but laughing. Was one of those classic professional moments.
And, that's the power of long professional relationships. You establish trust. You explore mutual benefit. You have fun. And, ultimately, it may lead to a great result for all involved. THIS is the power of establishing real partnerships.
At a minimum, you meet great people -- and stay in touch with them.
And, you revel in wearing (and otherwise supporting) the iconic stuff that they are now directly involved in creating.
So, back to the sneaks. Love 'em. And love the fact that my buddy Cottrill is leading the charge over there with his charisma, passion and overall love for the game.
He too is iconic in my book.
Senin, 07 Januari 2013
My Manifesto -- Sorenson Media 2013
As some of you know, I blog not only here, but also for the official blog of my company, Sorenson Media, where I am President & CEO. I also write fairly regularly for TechCrunch, The Huffington Post, and others. I do this because I enjoy it. I also hope, of course, that I both educate and entertain (at least occasionally).
In my alter ego capacity -- i.e., official blogger for Sorenson Media -- this is the post I published today. I am "re-printing" it here to emphasize its importance -- and to underscore my over-arching commitment to our customers and to those who regularly follow that blog. This is my "MANIFESTO for 2013" as President, CEO, and official blogger/communicator for Sorenson Media:
To the Sorenson Media faithful, a very happy new year! This is Peter Csathy, President & CEO of Sorenson Media. The Sorenson Media team and I are very thankful for your continued trust and faith in our products in 2012. We hope to do even more in 2013 to earn and further that trust. That means better products. Better performance. Better customer service. Better listening to what you need. Better listening to what our products should do. Better "connection" to you, our customers. In other words, we need to be ... well ... just plain "better."
Here is my MANIFESTO as we start the new year (which, in the business world, really means today, Monday, January 7th -- the first full back from the long holiday season). I call it my "MANIFESTO" because this is my personal commitment to all of you for 2013.
First, I write each and every blog post here (I started doing this last month). I also write my own personal digital media/technology blog ("Digital Media Update") and frequently guest blog for TechCrunch, The Huffington Post, and others. The point is that I write (a lot) and have for years. I enjoy it. And, I commit here to you that I will take real time and make great effort in 2013 to use this official Sorenson Media blog to do more than promote our company and our products. I commit to you that I will do my best to bring other stories of interest to you, our video professional customers (and others who read this blog). That means relevant trends in the video marketplace -- relevant stories (including your stories about your businesses and your workflows) -- relevant players -- relevant products -- and, yes, even relevant competitors and their products on occasion. My goal is to make these "pages" come alive and become a real resource for you -- so that you come back for more because this blog is both entertaining and enlightening.
I also want for this blog to become a real "conversation" amongst you (our customers and others who come to these pages), our company, and me. I encourage you to use the "comments" section to agree, disagree, or offer perspective or thoughts of your own on any of the topics of the day. Feel free to be controversial. Feel free to speak your mind about my stories, my perspective, our products, or anything at all. So long as our conversation is respectful, it is all fair game. You can also always communicate to me privately and directly by writing to my Sorenson Media email address -- which is ceo@sorensonmedia.com. I assure you that I will personally read -- and respond to -- each and every email.
Will I use this official Sorenson Media blog to promote Sorenson Media, our team, and our products? Of course I will! I am CEO after all, and I am passionate about this team, our brand, and our mission -- which is to delight you and exceed your expectations. I also believe that you may benefit from Sorenson Media-specific announcements and stories on occasion (including team member profiles -- so that you get a sense of who we are). Will I also use this official blog -- and will we use monthly newsletters -- to promote special offers for our products on occasion? Yes again! After all, we are a business and we need to drive our business forward successfully via sales of our products (and readers here and of our newsletters will also benefit from significant product offers that aren't available elsewhere). But, our products will not sell if they are not worthy of being sold. In fact, you shouldn't buy them if they don't do what you need them to do -- or what you expect of them. We wouldn't want you to.
Let me be clear, this Sorenson Media team is a passionate one. I know every single team member here -- and each one of them (every single one) -- is committed to "doing it right." We hope to delight each and every one of you. We don't always succeed, however, but I assure you it's not for lack of commitment or trying when we do miss the mark. And, if we do, we will do the right thing. That's my commitment to you -- which is consistent with our long-time culture here.
So, back to the beginning. I hope you read this official Sorenson Media blog -- not only today, but also on a regular basis. I will make every effort to make it worth your time. To be a real resource for you. Something that can help you in your everyday business and creativity. I hope for this blog to augment our other available resources and direct lines of communication, which I urge you to check out regularly. These include (1) our forums (the pool of content -- real world answers -- that deepens each day), (2) free educational webinars focused on real workflows and real world issues (frequently co-hosted by long-time partners like Avid), (3) our newsletters (which, yes, regularly focus on special offers, but which we intend to increasingly use for other useful non-sales information -- such as new or hidden Squeeze features and other product announcements -- so that they too become a real resource for you), (4) our website (which is updated regularly for similar reasons), and (5) our technical support team that has deep knowledge of our products and a deep commitment to our customers.
So, let me know how I am doing with the commitments behind this Manifesto. Let us here at Sorenson Media know how we are doing as a company. Give us feedback. Suggest new features. Tell us what we are doing right. Tell us what we can do better.
Thanks again for your trust in our products. Thanks for using what we develop. Thanks for listening to what we have to say. We know you have other choices.
And, let's all have a great year in 2013.
Cheers!
(Post-Script -- my personal "Digital Media Update" blog covers a much broader array of topics that may or may not be of interest to you or appropriate in my official Sorenson Media "voice", including musings about my favorite music and myriad other topics; I urge you to check that out as well, but for other reasons of more general interest and engagement.)
Peter Csathy
President & CEO
ceo@sorensonmedia.com
In my alter ego capacity -- i.e., official blogger for Sorenson Media -- this is the post I published today. I am "re-printing" it here to emphasize its importance -- and to underscore my over-arching commitment to our customers and to those who regularly follow that blog. This is my "MANIFESTO for 2013" as President, CEO, and official blogger/communicator for Sorenson Media:
To the Sorenson Media faithful, a very happy new year! This is Peter Csathy, President & CEO of Sorenson Media. The Sorenson Media team and I are very thankful for your continued trust and faith in our products in 2012. We hope to do even more in 2013 to earn and further that trust. That means better products. Better performance. Better customer service. Better listening to what you need. Better listening to what our products should do. Better "connection" to you, our customers. In other words, we need to be ... well ... just plain "better."
Here is my MANIFESTO as we start the new year (which, in the business world, really means today, Monday, January 7th -- the first full back from the long holiday season). I call it my "MANIFESTO" because this is my personal commitment to all of you for 2013.
First, I write each and every blog post here (I started doing this last month). I also write my own personal digital media/technology blog ("Digital Media Update") and frequently guest blog for TechCrunch, The Huffington Post, and others. The point is that I write (a lot) and have for years. I enjoy it. And, I commit here to you that I will take real time and make great effort in 2013 to use this official Sorenson Media blog to do more than promote our company and our products. I commit to you that I will do my best to bring other stories of interest to you, our video professional customers (and others who read this blog). That means relevant trends in the video marketplace -- relevant stories (including your stories about your businesses and your workflows) -- relevant players -- relevant products -- and, yes, even relevant competitors and their products on occasion. My goal is to make these "pages" come alive and become a real resource for you -- so that you come back for more because this blog is both entertaining and enlightening.
I also want for this blog to become a real "conversation" amongst you (our customers and others who come to these pages), our company, and me. I encourage you to use the "comments" section to agree, disagree, or offer perspective or thoughts of your own on any of the topics of the day. Feel free to be controversial. Feel free to speak your mind about my stories, my perspective, our products, or anything at all. So long as our conversation is respectful, it is all fair game. You can also always communicate to me privately and directly by writing to my Sorenson Media email address -- which is ceo@sorensonmedia.com. I assure you that I will personally read -- and respond to -- each and every email.
Will I use this official Sorenson Media blog to promote Sorenson Media, our team, and our products? Of course I will! I am CEO after all, and I am passionate about this team, our brand, and our mission -- which is to delight you and exceed your expectations. I also believe that you may benefit from Sorenson Media-specific announcements and stories on occasion (including team member profiles -- so that you get a sense of who we are). Will I also use this official blog -- and will we use monthly newsletters -- to promote special offers for our products on occasion? Yes again! After all, we are a business and we need to drive our business forward successfully via sales of our products (and readers here and of our newsletters will also benefit from significant product offers that aren't available elsewhere). But, our products will not sell if they are not worthy of being sold. In fact, you shouldn't buy them if they don't do what you need them to do -- or what you expect of them. We wouldn't want you to.
Let me be clear, this Sorenson Media team is a passionate one. I know every single team member here -- and each one of them (every single one) -- is committed to "doing it right." We hope to delight each and every one of you. We don't always succeed, however, but I assure you it's not for lack of commitment or trying when we do miss the mark. And, if we do, we will do the right thing. That's my commitment to you -- which is consistent with our long-time culture here.
So, back to the beginning. I hope you read this official Sorenson Media blog -- not only today, but also on a regular basis. I will make every effort to make it worth your time. To be a real resource for you. Something that can help you in your everyday business and creativity. I hope for this blog to augment our other available resources and direct lines of communication, which I urge you to check out regularly. These include (1) our forums (the pool of content -- real world answers -- that deepens each day), (2) free educational webinars focused on real workflows and real world issues (frequently co-hosted by long-time partners like Avid), (3) our newsletters (which, yes, regularly focus on special offers, but which we intend to increasingly use for other useful non-sales information -- such as new or hidden Squeeze features and other product announcements -- so that they too become a real resource for you), (4) our website (which is updated regularly for similar reasons), and (5) our technical support team that has deep knowledge of our products and a deep commitment to our customers.
So, let me know how I am doing with the commitments behind this Manifesto. Let us here at Sorenson Media know how we are doing as a company. Give us feedback. Suggest new features. Tell us what we are doing right. Tell us what we can do better.
Thanks again for your trust in our products. Thanks for using what we develop. Thanks for listening to what we have to say. We know you have other choices.
And, let's all have a great year in 2013.
Cheers!
(Post-Script -- my personal "Digital Media Update" blog covers a much broader array of topics that may or may not be of interest to you or appropriate in my official Sorenson Media "voice", including musings about my favorite music and myriad other topics; I urge you to check that out as well, but for other reasons of more general interest and engagement.)
Peter Csathy
President & CEO
ceo@sorensonmedia.com
Jumat, 04 Januari 2013
Shutterfly Acquiring ThisLife? No Surprise To Me
TechCrunch and others are reporting that our long-time partner, leading digital memory site Shutterfly, is in the process of acquiring slick photo start-up ThisLife, a service I blogged about extensively a few weeks back. The rumored price tag is $25 million.
If these reports are true, then forgive me as I pat myself on the back for not being surprised at all about this result. Why?
Because, as I previously wrote -- in fact this was the last line of that earlier blog -- "perhaps ThisLife's founders are betting that sufficient market traction will make the already-established online photo services of the world stand up and take notice -- and ultimately acquire them."
Well that, in fact, apparently is happening now with Shutterfly (a company that would be the most obvious choice right now from my perspective). Why? Because ThisLife is the perfect complement to Shutterfly's existing industry-leading service (of which I have been a customer for over 10 years now -- and over 33,000 pics later). How do I know that number? Because ThisLife absorbed all of those images from my Shutterfly account when I first signed up for the service. The two services already were effectively joined at the hip ...
(NOTE -- my company, Sorenson Media, is the full end-to-end video service provider for Shutterfly -- a company I respect deeply both as a partner, and as a long-time customer).
If these reports are true, then forgive me as I pat myself on the back for not being surprised at all about this result. Why?
Because, as I previously wrote -- in fact this was the last line of that earlier blog -- "perhaps ThisLife's founders are betting that sufficient market traction will make the already-established online photo services of the world stand up and take notice -- and ultimately acquire them."
Well that, in fact, apparently is happening now with Shutterfly (a company that would be the most obvious choice right now from my perspective). Why? Because ThisLife is the perfect complement to Shutterfly's existing industry-leading service (of which I have been a customer for over 10 years now -- and over 33,000 pics later). How do I know that number? Because ThisLife absorbed all of those images from my Shutterfly account when I first signed up for the service. The two services already were effectively joined at the hip ...
(NOTE -- my company, Sorenson Media, is the full end-to-end video service provider for Shutterfly -- a company I respect deeply both as a partner, and as a long-time customer).
My "Instagram For Video" Analysis Featured in TechCrunch
I recently wrote a guest post for TechCrunch about the quest of myriad start-ups to become the "Instagram for Video" -- and what they must do to succeed.
Yesterday, TechCrunch wrote about an apparently worthy new contender to this potentially massive prize -- FrameBlast. In that post, TechCrunch writer Mike Butcher, among other things, prominently follows my analysis to support his conclusion.
It is worth checking out. And, it is kinda' cool that he deems my analysis worthy to frame the relevant issues.
Yesterday, TechCrunch wrote about an apparently worthy new contender to this potentially massive prize -- FrameBlast. In that post, TechCrunch writer Mike Butcher, among other things, prominently follows my analysis to support his conclusion.
It is worth checking out. And, it is kinda' cool that he deems my analysis worthy to frame the relevant issues.
Kamis, 03 Januari 2013
Evergram Featured in USA Today
One of my favorite passion-fueled start-ups is Evergram -- about which I recently wrote as being a "must check out" service (here is the link to my earlier post).
USA Today, among other big names, also recently have taken note. In fact, USA Today just featured Evergram -- and Founder/CEO Duncan Seay -- yesterday. Worthy of a read -- and watch the video too.
I like what they do. I like why they do it. And, I like the deeper meaning (and story) behind it.
USA Today, among other big names, also recently have taken note. In fact, USA Today just featured Evergram -- and Founder/CEO Duncan Seay -- yesterday. Worthy of a read -- and watch the video too.
I like what they do. I like why they do it. And, I like the deeper meaning (and story) behind it.
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