Though Tinder is a smartphone app, it prides itself on connecting people in reality, and the Tinder VR campaign is a sly jab at another piece of technology that claims to offer real experiences. Tinder VR is a device that looks like an adapted VR headset. Rather than fitting on just one person, though, the device has two ports on its opposing ends -- one for each member of a couple -- and it simply lets them look into each others' eyes.
Though Tinder VR is a gag (the official Tinder blog post announcing the headset is titled "Tinder VR (LOL)"), the dating app company does a good job of playing the joke as deadpan as it can with its campaign materials. The video for Tinder VR, for example, is voiced by a silky, British-accented man and features tantalizingly lit glamour shots of the gag device.
Branded VR Headset Spoofs
Tinder VR Teases the Unreality of Virtual Reality at CES 2017
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Reality Spoofing - Opportunity for companies to create more humorous and light-hearted virtual reality experiences.
2. Technology Parody - Opportunity for businesses to make light of and mock new technological products.
3. Virtual Communication Innovation - Opportunity for companies to create more intimate and personalized virtual communication experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Online Dating - Online dating companies can use humor to engage and retain users in an increasingly competitive market.
2. Virtual Reality - Virtual reality companies can explore new ways to create personalized, intimate experiences for users.
3. Technology Marketing - Technology companies can use parody to create entertaining and engaging marketing campaigns for their products.