AudioMob, a pioneer in the realm of in-game audio advertising, is setting a new standard for non-intrusive mobile game advertisements by replacing the conventional and often disruptive video ads with seamless audio messages.
With the ambition to position itself as the next gaming capital following Finland, AudioMob has recognized the untapped potential of Saudi Arabia as a thriving hub for mobile gaming and audio advertising innovation.
Emerging Technology Companies on the Rise
Tech startups frequently emerge, showcasing their ability to carve individual paths toward success and competitiveness. AudioMob stands out as a stellar example of this trend by introducing a qualitative shift in the electronic gaming advertising domain. Their model smoothly integrates audio advertisements into mobile games without disrupting the player’s experience—a common issue with more intrusive video ads. Christian Facey, AudioMob's founder and CEO, discussed the company's accidental origin and its success in an exclusive interview with “Al Sharq Al Awsat” from Lisbon, Portugal.
Innovative Advertising within Games
Christian Facey, together with Willfred Obeng, engineers previously employed with giants like
Facebook, Google, JP Morgan, and Goldman Sachs, noticed a gap between the burgeoning $184+ billion mobile gaming industry and the largely unexplored realm of audio advertising worth tens of billions. They envisioned incorporating audio advertisements into mobile games in a way that would harmonize the experience for players, advertisers, and developers alike. This vision became the foundation for launching AudioMob.
A Unique Advertising Approach
Distinguishing itself from competitors, AudioMob's unique approach to audio advertising allows for non-disruptive delivery of ad content within the gaming environment. In stark contrast to the intrusive nature of video ads that halt gameplay, as Facey describes, AudioMob utilizes device-level sound analysis to seamlessly stream audio adverts. This strategy enables uninterrupted gameplay, improving player retention while connecting advertisers with a growing mobile gaming audience efficiently.
Saudi Arabia: A Promising Prospect for AudioMob
In addition to its global aspirations, AudioMob is eyeing Saudi Arabia as a promising location for mobile gaming and audio advertising. With increasing mobile phone usage and a flourishing gaming sector, the Kingdom provides fertile ground for AudioMob's innovative solutions. Facey considers Saudi Arabia's strategic move toward investing in the electronic gaming sector as positioning the nation to be the next gaming capital akin to Finland.
Challenges and Opportunities
Facey and his partner's journey from being employees at tech behemoths to leading an innovative startup has played a pivotal role in shaping AudioMob's trajectory. Their time with these technology companies provided them with valuable insights into building effective teams and motivation strategies skills that have empowered them to navigate their current roles confidently.
The co-founders acknowledge that every entrepreneurial venture encounters its share of challenges and opportunities. Facey highlights the importance of confronting the 'unknown' and educating oneself on unexpected hurdles, as well as developing the ability to stay focused and adapt during difficult times. Despite encountering obstacles, AudioMob thrived through the turbulent years of 2020 and 2021, achieving significant growth and sustained success. AudioMob's journey from inception to becoming a leading force in in-game audio advertising is an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.