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# Smartphone-Created Magazines
Google and Guardian Labs Used the Pixel 2 to Create 'The Chain'

By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2017-11-24 | Tech
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-chain
References: [campaignlive](https://www.campaignlive.co.uk/article/why-google-made-fashion-magazine-promote-pixel-2/1451039) & [theguardian](https://www.theguardian.com/the-chain)

In partnership with [Guardian Labs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/battery-guardian), Google created 'The Chain' magazine using the Pixel 2 smartphone.

While a physical copy of the magazine will be going out to Guardian readers at the end of the week, content from The Chain can also be found online via a platform hosted by [The Guardian](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/reclaim-your-brain). The magazine offers a look at the world through the eyes of 10 influencers in fashion who document their working lives. Content from The Chain campaign will also be shared with department stores like [Selfridges](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/neurasit), as well as boutiques and cafes.

Many modern brands that do not need to rely on traditional forms of advertising are now venturing into print media as a way to surprise consumers and delight them with niche content.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 4.4/10
- Popularity: 66% | Activity: 58% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Mobile](https://www.trendhunter.com/mobile)

## Key Themes

### What's Driving This Trend

- **Branded Print Media:** Brands are exploring print media as a way to surprise and delight consumers with niche content.
- **Smartphone Content Creation:** Smartphones are being used to create professional-quality content for magazines, opening up new opportunities for content creation.
- **Influencer Marketing:** Magazines are showcasing the working lives of influencers, highlighting the effectiveness of influencer marketing in reaching target audiences.

### Who This Affects Most

- **Technology:** The rise of smartphone content creation creates opportunities for technology companies to develop innovative tools and platforms for content production and publishing.
- **Advertising:** The integration of branded print media presents new opportunities for advertising agencies to create unique, engaging campaigns that capture audience attention.
- **Fashion:** Fashion brands can leverage influencer marketing in magazines to reach and engage with their target audience, driving brand awareness and sales.

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- [Art-Tech Zine Collaborations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/twentynine-zine.md)
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- [GenAI Flip Phone Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/styled-with-moto.md)
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- [Refreshing Smartphone Finishes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/google-pixel-mint.md)
- [Deluxe Dual-Screen Smartphones](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/google-pixel-fold.md)
- [Strategic Smartphone Partnerships](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pixel-10-series.md)
