Verizon becomes Official 5G Innovation Partner to Snap Inc., the creator of Snapchat

NEW YORK– Verizon and Snap Inc., the creator of Snapchat, today announced a first-of-its-kind partnership to leverage Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband technology to support Snap’s best-in-class augmented reality, visual communications, and content experiences. As official 5G innovation partners, the companies will work together at Verizon’s 5G Labs to create new experiences for consumers, including opportunities to experience live events in new ways through Snapchat. The partnership will also include premium sponsorship placements within Snap Originals video series.

Verizon 5G Ultra Wideband’s low latency, fast speeds and high bandwidth will enable Snap’s AR innovation through cutting-edge applications. This includes Landmarker tech, which creates location-based entertainment experiences and Portal Lenses that can transport fans backstage at a concert or provide spectators unique in-stadium experiences from their seat during the game. 

Consumers will also enjoy exciting activations at many of Verizon’s key marketing moments and throughout the Snapchat advertising platform. Verizon will preload the Snapchat application on select 5G phones, and provide exclusive offers through strategic programs like Verizon Up. 

“5G will change the way people live, work and play and we’re partnering with leading companies like Snap Inc. to create unique experiences and new offerings,” said Frank Boulben, Senior Vice President of Marketing & Products, Verizon Consumer Group. “Our strategy is to partner with the best brands to ensure our customers have exclusive access to cutting edge technology and services. Our 5G Ultra Wideband technology should change the way mobile users forever experience places and events, evolving the way they see the world.”

“Major advances in high-bandwidth experiences are fueling the future of augmented reality,” said Jared Grusd, Chief Strategy Officer, Snap Inc. “We are thrilled to partner with Verizon to move the industry forward through the development of creative and innovative 5G experiences on Snapchat.”

This deal brings together a leader in AR technology with the nation’s most awarded network provider. Snapchat is one of the largest digital platforms in the world, reaching over 200 million people every day, including 90 percent of all 13-24 year-olds and 75 percent of all 13-34 year-olds in the U.S. Verizon is building the most powerful 5G network in America bringing business and consumers transformative experiences built on Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network. Since April, Verizon has launched 5G Ultra Wideband mobility service in 18 cities as well as 16 sporting and entertainment arenas across the country, and plans to expand to more than 30 cities by the end of this year.