In July of 2022, streaming services drew more viewers than cable TV for the first time ever. This milestone had been anticipated for a long time because of the popularity and affordability of streaming.
Because streaming is so prevalent these days, businesses should consider over-the-top advertising ideas for their campaigns.
If you need some inspiration, these OTT ad examples can help you out. Keep reading to learn more.
1. Binge Ads
Hulu partnered with three major brands, including Kellogg Cereal Company and Maker's Mark to test the new binge ad format in 2019. So, how do binge ads work?
Once a Hulu member reaches a third episode, they receive a message informing them that the next episode will be ad-free courtesy of a brand. The ad typically includes a unique offer from the brand as well.
With user data, Hulu can predict when people are binge-watching a show. A threshold is met and Hulu then serves contextually relevant messaging from brand partners to acknowledge the beginning of a binge session.
A frustrating point for streaming users is that they have to watch ads. Binge ads target these users and remove interruption ads as a marketing technique.
Hulu advertising is a great way to jump into the world of OTT advertising.
2. Pause Ads
In 2019, Hulu launched pause ads to provide viewers with a non-intrusive ad experience that is still effective for brands. Since then, other streaming services have used these types of ads for high impact.
A pause ad pops up when viewers pause the content they are watching. Pause ads are static brand advertisements that take over the screen once a video has been paused for over five seconds.
These ads are best used for:
Creating a shoppable or actionable moment
Brand messaging and awareness
Speaking to an audience at peak attention
The messaging is contextually relevant by calling attention to the pause. For example, a business that advertises food and drinks might use a pause ad to refer to snack time during a show or movie.
3. QR Codes
Interactive and rewarding ads are less intrusive and irritating to users. For example, Burger King had a great OTT ad with a QR code that moved around the screen.
Burger King used QR code ads for a giveaway opportunity for app users. Those who scanned it received a free Whopper with a purchase in the app.
If you are looking for marketing campaign ideas to increase app downloads, OTT ad examples like this one are helpful.
The idea behind this marketing strategy was that viewers would be more inclined to pay attention to Burger King ads, download the app, and visit the nearest Burger King to redeem the offer.
The use of QR codes in ads is not new, but they are trendy. Another great QR code ad example is Coinbase's 2022 Super Bowl ad that went viral and ended up crashing the company's app.
Once the ad aired, Coinbase followed up on social media to announce they were giving away $15 in BTC to those who joined by a certain date.
Generally, Super Bowl commercials are not considered OTT ads, but some ads were aired on YouTube TV's OTT channel during the game.
Because of the popularity of the QR codes in the biggest night in advertising, the resurgence of QR codes translated to Hulu, HBO Max, and other OTT platforms.
4. Ad Selector
Interactive ads are a big hit. That's why Hulu created the ad selector to, not only be interactive but allow users to control their ad experience. With this element, viewers can choose which ad they want to see from two or three options.
If users don't pick one in a certain amount of time, Hulu will randomly play one. This feature cannot be understated as users may walk away from their device when an ad shows up.
Ad selector isn't as new as binge ads, but it aids in user experience. This feature also allows brands to gather better data by seeing which ads users prefer to see.
5. Interactive Ads
Although the above OTT ad examples can be interactive, interactive ads deserve their own point. Volvo created an interactive ad that is engaging, but engagement isn't required.
The ad shows footage of their vehicles weaving through the countryside and city streets. What seems like a normal ad is taken up a notch with the interactive element.
In the top corner of the screen, the ad asks that users press a certain button on their remote to learn more about the experience.
Because viewers aren't always in a position to engage with ads, interactive elements shouldn't be required. Volvo does a great job of this.
6. Informative Ads
Energy companies have a hard time being visible, but OTT ads have changed the game.
Enbridge Inc. created an ad that follows a rooster through a morning journey, showing ways that the world runs on renewable energy. Using a rooster as the main character is unique and eye-catching to the audience.
Even though the rooster is the star, viewers still see humans around him watching him in shock and awe. Users can relate to these people and might be drawn into the ad more because of it.
When it comes to any effective marketing strategies, it's always a good practice to make ads relatable to your target audience.
7. Funny Ads
Who doesn't love a good laugh? If a viewer has to sit through an ad, they might feel less annoyed by it if they find it funny.
Meineke created an unexpected comedic ad by presenting a familiar scene and turning the narrative on its head. The quick visual ad gets to the point with the punchline and doesn't linger.
Funny ads are great options depending on your target audience. Be sure to make your point and be direct. Don't get lost in the joke.
OTT Ad Examples to Inspire You
These OTT ad examples are unique in their own right and use features you can't find with traditional advertising. To inspire your next marketing campaign, study these examples and others like them.
When you have your ideas down, work with Savant DSP to streamline the OTT ad placement process. We can offer you the tools you need to succeed in the OTT advertising lane.
Ready to make your campaigns more efficient? Schedule a demo with us today.