75% of consumers prefer audio ads whilst gaming

AudioMob, the company that bridges the gap between audio and mobile opportunities through non-intrusive ads, released new research investigating the real impact of audio ads on mobile gamers today.

61% of 18 to 24-year-olds who currently make up a vast majority of gaming audiences listen to music whilst gaming. This drops to just below half (49%) for 24-to-34-year-olds and 44% of 35-to-44 years. Even for adults 45-to-54-years old, music is still very popular as 34% engage with music, artists and bands whilst gaming.

Though 75% of consumers prefer to have audio ads within their gaming experiences, other findings detailed that 18% of mobile users prefer video ads in games while 26% favour IAP.

Video and banner ads have successfully monetised numerous mobile games over the years.

However, video ads present a major challenge for game companies and brands. Intrusive mobile ads frustrate players by taking over the device screen and blocking gameplay. The interruption causes negative associations with brands and games which ultimately reduces user retention within a mobile title.

Audio ads have allowed for significant increases in click-through-rates of more than 1000% over traditional banner ads. Engagement levels have been impressive alongside high ad completion rates and minimal bounce rate. Gaming offers a connection with more than 2.5 billion engaged users and there are few alternatives reaching these unprecedented levels.

Christian Facey, CEO and Co-founder of AudioMob says “Having consumers that are willing to engage with ads is always important but audio is a format that really enables more cut-through and retention. This format has seen more long-term engagement with brands, artists and musicians than ever before. Allowing people to dually participate in activities and audio is becoming necessary in building long-standing relationships.”