Ashley Otah, Ayzenberg’s resident trendspotter, outlines a few of the trends from our timelines making the biggest waves this week.
Snapchat x Amazon
Snapchat and Amazon have partnered up to introduce a new type of lens that combines fun with functionality. The “Amazon Fashion” profile in the app will allow Snapchat users to try on thousands of different kinds of glasses digitally. The process is facilitated using Amazon’s try-on display options. There has been no slowing the uptick of spending habits, and augmented reality makes it possible to try on anything from anywhere. The partnership further shows how virtual reality and AR will continue to be implemented in everyday life.
Nike
Soccer player Alphonso Davies, who plays for the Canadian national team and Germany’s Bayern Munich, is a rising star on and off the pitch. Davies is set to perform on the big screen at this year’s World Cup, and, although a bright and shining future lies ahead of him, there’s more to his story than meets the eye—and it deserves to be in the spotlight, too.
In a new docuseries from Nike titled “Home,” audiences can follow the stories of those displaced and how they challenge and follow their dreams. Like Davies says in episode two, “Anyone can become a refugee—it’s not something you choose.”
ESPN
It’s no secret that ESPN is trying to reach younger crowds. Their latest idea? Target the online debaters and Bronny enthusiasts out there by utilizing young content creators. The newly launched ESPN Creator Network aims to provide young and rising content creators an opportunity to be given access and resources to develop their sports programming ideas. And while creators will not be compensated, the program will provide them with travel, tickets, access, equipment and a series of courses. The move showcases that TikTok remains the frontrunner in recruiting and retaining fans.
