Via PR:
VringoTM, the next-generation ringtone pioneer, and Marvel Entertainment have announced a collaboration to create and distribute mobile videos and video ringtones based on Marvel’s legendary library of Super Heroes. The project kicks off today with the U.S. launch of a storefront and Web-based editing platform (http://vringo.marvel.com) dedicated to letting fans purchase ready-made mobile clips and even create their own from the Marvel archives.
“It’s a press release cliché to say you’re excited, so I’ll just say that teaming with a world-class entertainment company like Marvel feels like waking up and discovering that you have adamantium-laced bones,” said Vringo CEO Jon Medved. “Marvel continues to break new ground in digital distribution, and we’re proud to work with them on developing the world’s first Super Hero video ringtone portal.”
At launch, the store features editable raw footage and pre-cut video ringtones from newer Marvel properties like the animated Wolverine & The X-Men, and classics like theme songs from the fan-favorite animated 1966 Marvel Super Heroes series, with new content coming each month. All Marvel fans with video-ready phones can use the store to view and send bite-sized Marvel videos to their devices. Fans with Vringo application-compatible phones can take it to the next level, turning their clips into video ringtones and taking advantage of Vringo’s VringForwardTM technology, which lets them choose which Super Hero (or villain) they want their friends to see when they call.
“With its studio tools and video ringtone application, Vringo has built one of the mobile industry’s most innovative and exciting consumer engagement platforms,” said John Dokes, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Marvel Entertainment. “It’s a perfect match for our library of beloved characters.”
Fans can visit http://vringo.marvel.com to get their first mobile video free and additional clips will be priced at USD $1.99. The Vringo application is available for BlackBerry Bold, Symbian, Windows Mobile and J2ME devices, with support for additional platforms coming later this year.
Do they offer the Merry Marvel Marching Society March?
Wait a moment… video ringtones? Like a music video on your cellphone? Does the caller see the video, or just hear the audio? And why would I use up that space when an ordinary ringtone will do the trick?
Yeah, I know… MacKay economics as practiced by Barnum…