The success of virtual events during Covid-19

Although Covid-19 has disrupted almost every industry, the events sector has taken one of the biggest hits. From conferences to workshops and award shows to networking events, every 2020 event has either been moved online, postponed, or cancelled completely. The pandemic has presented challenges that brands had not anticipated, and everyone has had to adapt.

Within the consumer technology sector, we have seen brands both big and small get creative by hosting some innovative virtual events.

Huawei
To unveil its new Mate 40 Pro smartphone, Huawei created the world’s first ‘Drive-Thru’ press conference. Guests were picked up from their houses, transported to the venue in a clean and private luxury car and driven through a series of experiences designed to showcase Huawei’s latest offering without leaving the car.

Apple
With over 55 million views, Apple showed off its latest MagSafe technology, HomePod Mini, iPhone 12 and more. Apple’s virtual event was an online hit as it created a home-like environment showcasing exactly how the new HomePod Mini works and how notifications can be integrated into an iPhone. The event gave viewers a real feel of what it is like to have a smart home with Apple products.

Oppo
As soon Google announced the public version of Android 11, the rush to get devices updated was on. Oppo did not waste any time and revealed its new ColorOS 11 update at its “Make Life Flow” virtual conference. Building on the stock version of Android 11, ColorOS 11 has several cool features aimed at giving consumers more freedom to personalise their devices alongside privacy and digital wellbeing controls. The event helped cement the Oppo’s reputation as one of the most exciting smartphone brands in the world!

Covid-19 restrictions will likely remain in place for the foreseeable future; so it will certainly be interesting to see what major tech brands do around CES and MWC in 2021. Who knows, maybe the lack of a physical event will see more creative ideas turned into reality!

Thinking of hosting a virtual event? We can help – get in touch here.