To activate the technology, called AirLink, readers simply press the AirLink button within the app and scan their iPhone over an image in the printed newspaper where they see the AirLink logo. This will link the reader through to extra content, such as a video that relates to the story, an extended photo gallery or related articles.
Fairfax Metro Media is launching AirLink in partnership with MasterCard, the first advertiser to utilise this product innovation in The Sydney Morning Herald and The Sun Herald.
“AirLink is a cutting-edge, audience-focused technology development that allows us to fully integrate print and digital content, ” said Peter Fray, editor-in-chief and publisher, Sydney Publishing. "For our advertisers, AirLink opens brand new avenues to communicate with Fairfax Metro Media’s discerning and intelligent audiences.”
The new feature was announced on a half-page wraparound on today's edition of the The Sydney Morning Herald. The wrap features an AirLink to a video (below) of Peter Fray introducing the technology. AirLink is also advertised online on smh.com.au and will be featured in a full page ad in The Sun Herald this Sunday.
AirLink was developed in-house by Fairfax Metro Media over the past year.