Discord Tests "Orbs" Virtual Rewards for Interactive Ads
Discord is experimenting with a new virtual reward system called "Orbs" to incentivize user engagement with its interactive ad format, Quests. This move comes as the company prepares for a potential initial public offering (IPO).
How Orbs Work
Users earn Orbs by completing Quests. These interactive ads encourage users to engage with brands by watching product videos or playing games in exchange for virtual items. Accumulated Orbs can be redeemed for exclusive digital items in the Discord Shop. Rewards include Nitro credits, profile badges, avatar decorations, profile effects, and items from main collections.
Driving Ad Engagement and Exploring New Revenue Streams
The introduction of Orbs aims to increase interaction with Quests, showcasing a robust ad business to potential investors. This initiative aligns with Discord's reported discussions with investment bankers regarding a possible IPO.
Discord's Senior Vice President of Product, Peter Sellis, recently highlighted the success of Quests. Over the past year, over 70 Quests campaigns achieved a 10% acceptance rate, with millions of rewards earned.
Expanding Access and Incentivizing Nitro
Currently available on PC and gaming consoles, Quests will expand to mobile devices in June. The Orbs system may also encourage non-Nitro subscribers to experience the premium service by redeeming Orbs for Nitro credits. For example, 1,400 Orbs can be exchanged for three free days of Nitro, typically priced at $10 per month.
The Orbs program is currently being rolled out to a select group of users and will soon expand globally.
Learn more about Orbs and Quests and Discord Orbs FAQ.
