MLS’s San Jose Earthquakes Partner with Aurasma

Major League Soccer’s (MLS) San Jose Earthquakes and Aurasma, the world’s leading augmented reality platform, have partnered to transform the team’s 2012 logo and promotional materials into cross-media experiences that will draw fans closer to the Major League Soccer team.

Using the free Aurasma Lite app for iPhones, iPads and Android devices, fans can aim their device at the San Jose Earthquakes logo anywhere in the world and view a special video message from top scorer, Chris Wondolowski, followed by game highlights.

Using the app, the Quakes logo transforms into a video of Wondolowski before the fans’ eyes, bringing sports promotion into the bold new world of augmented reality. Wherever the Quakes logo is seen, whether it is a magnet on a fridge, a poster in a bedroom or someone wearing a player’s jersey, fans can unlock game highlights and access exclusive promotions. The videos, called an “Aura,” and promotions will change over the course of the season to keep fans engaged.

Also, fans attending Quakes game will be able to aim their device at the San Jose Earthquakes player cards distributed to attendees in the free game program to view a special player video. Every game, the collectable player card features a different team member, and the Aura will bring that player to life on the fan’s mobile device or tablet, allowing the player to personally share his hobbies, history, hopes and aspirations.

“The San Jose Earthquakes have some of the most devout fans in Major League Soccer, and we want our promotions to match that passion while also meeting the fans’ thirst for more engagement with the players,” said Earthquakes President Dave Kaval. “This partnership with Aurasma brings entertaining, interactive media to our club and allows our fans to connect with our players in revolutionary ways.”

Jennifer Rapp, general manager at Aurasma, added: “The forward-thinking Earthquakes organization understands that its loyal fan base craves engagement with players beyond game day. Since sports teams’ logos are seen on all types of merchandise it is really fun and easy to transform a poster, sweatshirt or even coffee mug into another screen to watch game highlights and engage with the players. We are excited to power the first U.S. Major League Soccer team’s augmented reality experience.”

The San Jose Earthquakes celebrates its home opener against the New England Revolution this Saturday, May 10, 2012 at 7:30pm PST.

by Ismail Uddin