Discord іs taking a bold step into virtual incentives with the introduction оf a new rewards system, Orbs, aimed at driving greater engagement with its advertising product. This move comes at a strategic time, as the company іs reportedly preparing for a potential initial public offering (IPO).
Introducing Orbs: Virtual Rewards for Ad Engagement
The Orbs system allows users to earn rewards by participating in Quests—Discord’s interactive ad format that encourages users to watch branded content or play games in exchange for digital items. These Orbs can then be redeemed in Discord’s Shop for exclusive rewards such as:
- Nitro credits
- Profile badges
- Avatar decorations
- Profile effects
- Items from main collections
The initiative reflects Discord’s ambition to create a more scalable and appealing advertising ecosystem while offering tangible incentives to its users.
Strengthening the Case for Advertisers and Investors
According to internal data shared by Discord’s Senior Vice President of Product, Peter Sellis, Quests have shown strong performance, with over 70 campaigns achieving a 10% acceptance rate and generating millions of rewards in the past year. This performance may serve as a powerful data point for potential investors as Discord discusses IPO possibilities with investment bankers.
Expanding Access and Driving Subscription Interest
Currently available on the PC version of the app, Quests are expected to roll out to mobile devices in June, further expanding reach. Meanwhile, the Orbs system offers an enticing entry point for users who don’t yet subscribe to Nitro. For example, 1,400 Orbs can be exchanged for three days of Nitro access—typically valued at $10 per month—providing a way to sample the premium service without upfront payment.
Gradual Rollout With Global Expansion Ahead
The Orbs feature is currently being tested with a limited group of users but is expected to roll out globally soon. As Discord continues to innovate and diversify its monetization strategies, virtual rewards may prove to be a crucial component in its journey toward public markets.
