Discord, the popular social platform, is set to implement sponsored ads as part of its new 'Sponsored Quests' program, according to a recent report by The Wall Street Journal. Read on to learn about Discord's statements and the ad program.
Discord to Start Implementing Sponsored Ads
Done to Boost Revenue According to the Platform
Discord's sponsored ad initiative, otherwise known as the Sponsored Quests program, allows users to earn in-game rewards by completing quests while their friends watch on Discord. The program was announced last month, with the rollout of ads expected within the week.
These sponsored ads were said to come primarily from video game makers. The ads will appear in the bottom left corner of users' screens and integrate with the platform’s UI. In line with the program, Discord is actively seeking to expand its advertising team, particularly its ad-sales positions, as reported by WSJ.
Discord heavily promoted its Nitro subscription, offering features like enhanced user perks for a monthly fee ranging from $2.99 to $9.99. Though CEO Jason Citron has reiterated in the past that Discord "would not depend on ads the way Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and others do," the platform is diversifying its revenue streams, with Discord’s revenue reportedly reaching $600 million annually—quadrupling from 2020 figures.
While users acknowledged that, for a predominantly free platform like Discord, there is a need to explore alternative revenue models, others viewed the upcoming ads as somehow intrusive and expressed concerns about potential social pressures to watch sponsored content.
Source:
Discord to Start Showing Ads for Gamers to Boost Revenue
Discord: OUR QUEST TO SUPPORT GAME DEVELOPERS ON DISCORD
