TECHIE INVASION

This

year, a casual look at player jerseys, shows brand names like Nokia, Samsung, HP and Acer — technology and mobility companies that are riding the IPL bandwagon to reach out to audiences with a mix of social media tools.

Homegrown consumer electronics company Mitashi has associated with Rajasthan Royals for the sixth time. Taiwan- based PC and technology brand, Acer, joins Delhi Daredevils as its technology partner, which means Acer laptops will help the team chalk out its strategy! Nokia was quick to re- jig its strategy and make a re- entry into India a few months back. It is the principal sponsor of Kolkata Knight Riders. We are hearing whispers that there is a KKR edition handset on the way.

Even before the tournament began, Vivo the primary sponsor of the IPL announced a “Fly for Final” Facebook content where you are able to participate in engagement activities related to its latest V9 smart phone and win all expense paid trip to the finals. Samsung has got aboard the IPL bandwagon as the principal sponsor of Mumbai Indians. The online Samsung Shop is running a Twenty20themed sale where winners get match tickets. Brands like HP and Paytm are also using social channels to keep audiences engaged. And as for the Chennai Super Kings and sponsors Nippon Paint, they have unveiled a cute mascot family, the Blobbies with the catchline: “Yellow Podu, Whistle Podu”. Rajasthan Royals have created their own mascot that engages with fans on social media. RCB captain launched an exclusive jersey on Facebook Live.

Whichever team you follow, rest assured you are in for a lot of entertainment over the next two months, on social media and on your mobile phone. May the best team ( and tool) win!