Discord plans to show ads to gamers starting this week – WSJ

Discord, the popular social media platform primarily known for its gamer-centric community, is reportedly set to embrace ads after years of staunchly dismissing them. According to sources cited by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), these ads are slated to make their debut on Discord’s free platform as early as this week.

The ads, predominantly from video game companies, will entice users with rewards for completing in-game tasks. Discord’s strategic move includes plans to bolster its advertising efforts by hiring over a dozen ad sales personnel. However, users will reportedly have the option to opt-out of these ads through their account settings, ensuring a degree of control over their experience.

This decision marks a significant pivot for Discord, particularly given CEO Jason Citron’s previous declarations that the platform wouldn’t rely on advertisers akin to giants like Facebook and Instagram. 

Interestingly, Discord’s move aligns with a broader trend seen across various online services, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Paramount+, which have increasingly introduced ad-supported tiers to diversify revenue streams and cater to users who may not opt for premium, ad-free subscriptions.

The influence of social media on consumer behavior has become undeniable, with a substantial portion of individuals turning to platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to discover new products and services. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok boast impressive conversion rates, with users frequently making purchases based on content encountered on these platforms. Instagram, renowned for its visual appeal, emerges as a preferred platform for fashion-related purchases, while TikTok‘s short-form videos drive engagement in the beauty product sector.

Moreover, YouTube’s longer video format proves effective for showcasing products that require demonstrations, such as appliances, home furnishings, and pet products. The pervasive influence of social media on consumer behavior underscores its transformative role in shaping preferences, driving transactions, and fostering brand-consumer connections in the digital age.

For businesses striving to maintain a competitive edge in today’s market landscape, embracing the opportunities afforded by social media platforms is imperative. Effectively engaging with core audiences through these channels not only enhances brand visibility but also facilitates meaningful interactions that resonate with consumers’ evolving needs and preferences. As Discord ventures into the realm of advertising, it reflects a broader acknowledgment of the pivotal role played by social media in shaping the digital ecosystem.