As we’ve become more dependent on mobile technology, app-based marketing has become just as important as print or online marketing. This year, the “new big thing” was mobile streaming technology. Q1 of 2015 saw the rise of startups such as Meerkat and Periscope apps that allow people to live-stream major events or updates from their smart phone just by pressing a few buttons.

 

Twitter lies at the heart of this streaming surge, as each app requires the user to log in through the service. Once the user starts his or her stream, the apps send out tweets that alert followers of the broadcast. Now after spending the year watching Meerkat and Periscope duke it out for the “best streaming service” title, it’s time to answer two important questions.

Which works best as a marketing tool?

When it comes to functionality, Meerkat stands out as the clear winner. It’s tailored more for businesses who want to get their streams out to as many people as possibility. This desire is assisted by Meerkat’s scheduling system, which allows users to announce upcoming streams through a link that works on Twitter, Facebook or company website. Periscope has no such system. People will be alerted to your stream when you start broadcasting. In addition to this, Meerkat stores all your previous streams in a library for you to access at any time, as well as a link for other people to access your streams. While previous Periscope streams are only available for twenty-four hours and they can only be found on the app itself.

Which app is worth your time?

Even though Meerkat offers more in the way of features, Periscope has come out to be the more popular service. Perhaps brand recognition has a lot to do with the app’s appeal, seeing as Periscope was purchased by Twitter before it went public. But most tend to agree the simplicity of the app attracts to those looking for a quick and easy way to stream updates. The design is far more polished than Meerkat’s, as streaming options are minimal and straightforward. I personally signed up for both apps as a test, and I found that registration and broadcasting were both so much easier to do on Periscope.

 

Should you use one?

Users across the world have been making good personal use of streaming sites such as Periscope, but many have wondered how these types of apps can work for businesses. Streaming services can help you offer behind-the-scenes looks at how products are made, hold live Q&A sessions and offer glimpses inside exclusive conventions and trade shows. In short, it’s a great way to connect with your clients or target customers by giving them “inside looks” at your brand.

 

Overall, both apps have proven themselves as legitimate and effective ways of marketing, but which one you use will depend on who you’re trying to reach and which you personally prefer. Stream on!