New digital programme launche

RNS Number : 9101V

Future PLC

04 June 2008

 



4 June 2008

Future plc

New monthly digital programme launched with Sony US

Future plc, the international special-interest media group, announces that it has signed an exclusive development agreement with Sony Computer Entertainment America ('SCEA') to produce a monthly digital programme that will deliver content across SCEA's PLAYSTATION® Network.

Branded Qore™ ('Qore'), the programme has been developed with proprietary technology by Future US, with content provided by Future's video games editorial staff. Future US will hold the exclusive right to sell advertising on the programme.

Qore will launch on 5 June 2008 and marks the first time gamers will be able to download high-definition games coverage directly through their console's broadband connection, for viewing on their TV screens. Content will include exclusive playable demos, game previews, strategies and interviews with developers and key industry figures. Qore is a fully interactive product and users will navigate through Qore via their PlayStation controller. 

Users will be charged a fee for the magazine programme, which will be supported by an innovative ad model that incorporates rich-media advertisements such as trailers, interstitials and contextual ads. Annual subscriptions will also be offered.

Qore provides a direct and efficient way for advertisers to connect with gamers in an active media environment. Launch sponsors will comprise Burger King, Universal Pictures, Activision and Codemasters.

Future is also in discussions with Sony Computer Entertainment UK about the digital programme concept.

Stevie Spring, Future plc's Chief Executive said:

'We are very excited to work with Sony on what is a groundbreaking development for the media and gaming industries. As the publisher of Official magazines for SonyPlayStation in the US and the UK, our strategy is to create powerful integrated media solutions for readers and advertisers across different platforms, in print and online. Qore will provide a unique way for advertisers to connect directly with gamers.'

Enquiries:

Future:

Vicky Bacon, Head of Group Communications Tel: [phone]

Hogarth Partnership:

James Longfield / Ian Payne Tel: [phone]

About Future

Future plc is an international special-interest media group that is listed on the London Stock Exchange (symbol FUTR). Founded in 1985 with one magazine, today we have operations in the UK and US creating over 180 publications, websites and events for people who are passionate about their interests. We hold strong market positions in games, film, music, technology, cycling, automotive and crafts.  Our biggest-selling magazines include T3, Total Film, Digital Camera, Fast Car, Classic Rock, Guitar World, Official Xbox Magazine, Official Playstation Magazine, Nintendo Power and MacLife. Online, our websites include gamesradar.com, bikeradar.com, techradar.com, and musicradar.com. Future sells over 4 million magazines each month; we attract more than 11 million unique visitors to our websites; and we host 16 annual live events that attract hundreds of thousands of enthusiasts. Internationally, Future is both the UK's largest licensor and the largest exporter of magazines with our content appearing in 90 countries worldwide.

 

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