The move signals a commitment by the brand to work more closely with digital start-ups to quickly test and bring to the market new digital products.
According to the publishers, the new NME app delivers users a personalised experience that will make the daily discovery of new music, films, TV, games and events, quick, easy and engaging. All material is exclusive to the app, produced by a dedicated NME Daily team, and will not be replicated on any other NME platform. Future plans for the app will see additional functionality added including an Apple Watch extension, Apple Pay functionality, Apple Music integration and location and events based services using iBeacon.
Paul Cheal, director of Innovation at Time Inc. UK, says: “This app is a great example of how NME is increasing its content output and range, and we’ve delivered it by working closely with Tapjet. NME can offer start-ups editorial expertise, great insight and access to a large relevant audience. We hope to become a brand that start-ups gravitate towards.”
Tapjet CEO Chris Harris adds: “Working with NME has been a fantastic experience and key to our launch strategy. Our app-streaming technology enables NME to change features in the app live - creating new experiences to match the news cycle. NME can choose to deliver content based on a customer’s favourite band, TV show or film. We think this is the future of apps - you get the experience you want, when you want it.”
Says NME editor Mike Williams: “When we announced our major brand transformation, we promised an exciting new digital product set, so we’re delighted to be able to share the new NME Daily App with the world. The new NME is all about giving our audience what they want, when they want it and how they want it, and NME Daily delivers on this with some cool new regulars and an amazing user experience. Mobile is key to NME, and with new music, great pictures and big opinions every day, NME Daily is a brilliant new string to our bow.”
Users of NME Daily can access via the app daily news, photo galleries, video and Soundcloud. Music fans can also use the app to buy gig tickets, preview and purchase items from iTunes. Content can be easily shared through Whatsapp, Facebook, Twitter or email and exclusive ‘members only’ content will be unlocked when users register in-app “My NME”.
