Digital experts have offered an optimistic assessment of the upcoming relaunch of Myspace, claiming its sleek new interface and heavy focus on music, entertainment and events could ensure success for the troubled platform.
Myspace will relaunch before the end of the year with an entirely new design, content offering and logo. The changes are led by its new highly visual, horizontal-scrolling layout. In addition to a live feed of photo and status updates, the revised site will allow users to create and stream free music and interact with artists and celebrities. Users will also be able to log in with their Facebook or Twitter credentials to share information across all three platforms.
SapientNitro managing director Paul Bennett said: “Myspace’s music angle is an interesting one and gives it very good marketing foundations – music is a universal connector.”
303Lowe head of digital Nic Chamberlain argued Myspace was not attempting to return to its former glory by directly competing with the big two. “It doesn’t see itself as the same kind of social platform as Facebook and Twitter,” he said. “It’s an experience focused on its roots, for performers and artists to showcase their creativity.”
However, it has been suggested the revamped Myspace could pose a threat to music-streaming sites. Visual Jazz Isobar executive planning director Simon Small said: “It could become a powerful music platform and pose a potential threat to Spotify, and even compete with YouTube’s music offering.”
The relaunch and teaser video have been promoted on Twitter by key investor Justin Timberlake, who has over 14 million followers.
Arnold Furnace group business director Silvia Arrigoni said: “Big names have been used in other categories to launch products, so why not in social media? I don’t see why Myspace can’t rise from the ashes and succeed again.”
Match Media social media strategist Katy Daniells was also optimistic about the new Myspace. “The offering is different enough, adds value in the content provided and is user-friendly,” she said.
This article first appeared in the 5 October 2012 edition of AdNews, in print and on iPad. Click here to subscribe for more news, features and opinion.
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