Social music network imeem moves in on mobile advertising with Kia and Android

Rating: New advertising service provides space on both mobile and Internet site

imeem is a social networking site that handles all media, but specialises in music. It allows users to trade play-lists and music over it’s platform. It was one of the first applications available for download on the Android, and remains among the most popular downloads available on the device (it’s free, so no surprise there). imeem for Android has just released an updated version of the application, but that’s not all that’s new. Apparently not content to remain a networker, imeem has announced a new advertising service, with it’s first client to be Kia Motors.

More details?

Kia has brokered a mobile and Internet advertising deal with imeem to promote its new car, the Kia Soul.  The deal includes a branded Kia presence on every page on Imeem for Android, as well as placement on Imeems main site. The main new function of the updated imeem for Android is location-based streaming radio stations… and Kia have their own branded station as part of the deal.

From the release:

“We are excited to be working with Kia Motors to help introduce the new Kia Soul to North American consumers,” said Steve Jang, chief marketing officer and head of business development for imeem. “imeem for Android broke new ground in enabling people to experience social music anywhere. Now, we are giving brand partners the flexibility to be a part of that experience, on the go or at the PC.”

“Kia Motors wants to reach its target audience through creative campaigns that complement their style and fast-paced way of life,” said David Schoonover, Customer Relationship Marketing Manager for Kia Motors America. “imeem helps us achieve that goal by connecting our brand with a youthful community and an engaging social music experience that fits the Kia Soul lifestyle.”

What we think?

As if there weren’t enough advertisers out there already! Still, this is a smart move for imeem. They already have major corporate backing from T-Mobile for their mobile product, and it’s good to see they’re not rushing blindly into the advertising sector. To be able to announce a new advertising service and a client of the stature of Kia at the same time is something of a PR coup.

It remains to be seen whether it’s as good a deal for Kia as it is for imeem.

Related News:

1. Mobile social network factory Kiboo launch their Android app
2. Itsmy.biz – social advertising network for mobile
3. Mobile Social Network BuddyMob Reaches Top 5 on Android Market
4. Amobee expands its ad-support network to iPhone and Android
5. Mobile Advertising headlines: GreyStripe, Nokia Supernova, Mobile Ad Recession, Android, TargetSpot