We all know that with each day that passes digital media is pushing print further over the cliff of no return. You hear of magazines closing or going 100% digital on a daily basis, and even those of us who are digitally-devoted find it heart breaking to see some of our favorites glossies fall by the wayside.
Many of the big names are taking the hit hard. Conde Nast’s ad count is reportedly down by 8,359 pages. However, others are taking a step towards the future by merging the idea of print and online through augmented reality. The December issue of In Style magazine will be using augmented reality for their Taylor Swift cover (via Fashionista). There will also be interactive ads throughout the entire issue. According to publisher Connie Anne Phillips , “This is our most buzzed about issue [of the year] on a consumer level, and with this click-to-buy feature, it’s all about ROI and taking consumers to the point of purchase.”
So, is this a glimpse into the future of magazines? Will other pubs follow suit and find a means to their own revival? I’m excited to get the issue in hand to explore a truly interactive and tangible experience.
What are your thoughts? Could this be print’s lifeline?
Infographic by CartridgeSAVE.co.uk
