Some successful examples of brand partnerships in the mobile app industry include:
Collaboration between Uber and Spotify
One of the most notable brand partnerships in the mobile app industry is between ride-sharing giant Uber and music streaming service Spotify. This collaboration allowed users to link their Spotify accounts to their Uber app, enabling them to choose their favorite music to play during their ride. This partnership not only enhanced the user experience but also provided both companies with valuable data about their customers’ preferences.
McDonald’s and Pokemon Go
In 2016, fast-food chain McDonald’s partnered with Niantic’s popular mobile game, Pokemon Go. This collaboration turned McDonald’s restaurants into PokeStops and Gyms, encouraging players to visit these locations to catch Pokemon and battle other players. This partnership not only drove foot traffic to McDonald’s locations but also increased the popularity of the game.
Starbucks and Pokemon Go
Following the success of the McDonald’s and Pokemon Go partnership, Starbucks also teamed up with Niantic to turn its stores into PokeStops and Gyms. This collaboration not only attracted Pokemon Go players to Starbucks locations but also drove sales as players stopped in for a beverage or snack while playing the game.
Nike and Apple
Nike and Apple have a long-standing partnership that began with the launch of the Nike+ app for iOS devices. This app allowed users to track their runs, set goals, and share their progress with friends. The collaboration extended to the integration of Nike’s running shoes with Apple’s smartwatch, allowing users to track their runs without needing to carry their phone. This partnership leveraged the strengths of both brands to provide users with a seamless and comprehensive running experience.
Amazon and Twitch
Amazon’s acquisition of the popular streaming platform Twitch opened up new opportunities for brand partnerships in the mobile app industry. Amazon Prime members were able to link their accounts to Twitch to access exclusive content and benefits, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two services. This partnership not only increased the value of Amazon Prime memberships but also drove engagement on the Twitch platform.
Coca-Cola and Shazam
Coca-Cola partnered with music identification app Shazam to create interactive packaging that allowed users to scan Coca-Cola products with the app to unlock exclusive content and experiences. This partnership not only increased brand engagement but also provided Coca-Cola with valuable data on consumer behavior and preferences.
Sephora and ModiFace
Beauty retailer Sephora collaborated with augmented reality company ModiFace to create a virtual try-on feature in its mobile app. This partnership allowed users to virtually test out makeup products before making a purchase, enhancing the online shopping experience. The success of this partnership led to an increase in app downloads and engagement.
Google and Starbucks
Google partnered with Starbucks to integrate Google Pay into the Starbucks mobile app, allowing customers to easily make payments and earn rewards using their smartphones. This collaboration streamlined the checkout process for Starbucks customers and incentivized the use of Google Pay, benefiting both companies.