SanomaVentures invests in video discovery app WappZapp
Curated and personalized programming of catch-up TV, webvideo and movies
AMSTERDAM, 5 August 2013 - SanomaVentures is investing in WappZapp, a video discovery start-up. WappZapp selects the best web videos and online TV programmes enabling you to organise your very own playlist. The selection can be viewed on a smartphone, tablet or TV. Over 350,000 users in the Netherlands have downloaded the free app.
Last week, the company announced that it had added paid movies, series and stand-up comedy shows to the selection, making it the first company to offer both free and paid VOD in a single app. Another unique feature is the ability to link the app to a computer screen or connected TV. WappZapp thus transforms an iPhone or iPad into a remote control and makes it possible to watch online videos on a large TV screen.
Herman Kienhuis, investment director at SanomaVentures, believes that the app has great potential: ‘Sanoma sees substantial growth in online video. The Internet is increasingly being used to view video content and there’s a tremendous range on offer. WappZapp makes discovering and viewing online video content as easy and fun as traditional zapping through TV channels. Because viewing is possible both through the app and via connected TV’s, WappZapp is prepared for future developments in the TV market. This is a great addition to Sanoma’s existing TV channels and video websites.’
A refreshing range of video content
The broad range offered by WappZapp aggregates the best catch-up TV, movies, YouTube videos and new online TV channels like TEDtalks, VICE and Red BullTV with video’s from local brands such as NU.nl, Autoweek and Flabber. Besides the pre-selection by the editorial staff and ‘curators’ like 3fm DJ Michiel Veenstra, users can compile their own selection of programmes based on popularity, follow their own personal interests and watch their friends’ favourite videos. Regarding the company’s position in the TV market, WappZapp co-founder Wienke Giezeman believes that ‘People don’t want a different app for each form of TV. Sometimes people want to watch a favourite TV show and at other times they feel like watching an engaging documentary or a good movie.’
Rapid growth in on-demand viewing
In Giezeman’s view, ‘It’s fantastic to see how TV broadcasters are increasing their online activity. In addition, video from innovative brands and vloggers are becoming very popular on the web. Like Kevin Spacey recently told the industry, it’s a logical shift because it’s what the new generation wants. But international VOD giants like Netflix and HBO don’t accommodate this transition for these content creators. We’re working together with the industry to become the platform where all video producers can find their respective audiences and make money with new revenue models.’
The future of TV
WappZapp, founded in the summer of 2012 by Colin Ellis and Wienke Giezeman, last year won the Dutch Startup Award for ‘Best mobile app’ and the Accenture Innovation Award for ‘Most innovative entertainment company in the Netherlands’. Above all, however, the founders are proud of how users have really embraced the app: ‘Over 100,000 people now make intensive use of the app, on average 40 minutes per session. Our peak hour is around eight in the evening, which means that we offer a real alternative to traditional TV.’ SanomaVentures’ investment will be used to further develop functionalities, expand to Android and the web and raise awareness of the app.
WappZapp is available in the iTunes App Store for iPad and iPhone: https://itunes.apple.com/nl/app/wappzapp.tv-films-series-en/id466863591?mt=8
About WappZapp
WappZapp is your own online TV portal that provides an overview of catch-up TV, YouTube and innovative web TV. It allows you to watch your favourite shows, check what your friends are watching and view videos on every screen. With the world at your fingertips, the days of aimless zapping are over. Zap through the best on the web with WappZapp.
http://www.wappzapp.com | twitter.com/wappzapptv
About SanomaVentures
SanomaVentures is an international initiative from European media company Sanoma to support innovative start-ups in the areas of digital information, entertainment and education by offering capital, media exposure, expertise, network, and strategic and financial support. It focuses on companies that have passed the initial start-up phase, are seeking further growth and have developed an online consumer services, e-commerce, mobile & tablet services, video & TV, online advertising or e-learning product. The Dutch SanomaVentures branch, located in Amsterdam, was established in 2012 and focuses on the Dutch start-up scene. SanomaVentures has invested in Vault79.com, Scoupy, Peerby, Truly Yours, VirtuaGym.com, Brandkids.com and Fosbury.co.
http://www.sanomaventures.com | twitter.com/sanomaventures