Interesting to see a big studio willing to experiment with release windows.

Anything that combines an iPhone, a helmet and a tiny monitor attached with scotch tape is a winner in my book.

MTV announced the launch of Valemont, a scripted short-form series premiering Sept. 29. A

co-branded supernatural mystery project that unfolds across the television, digital and mobile platforms, the first six two-and-a-half minute episodes of Valemont will premiere in primetime in the commercial pods directly preceding The Hills and following The City--the remaining 23 episodes of the series will be available online at MTV.com and on mobile via Verizon Wireless' V Cast Video effort. MTV adds that Verizon handsets play an integral role in the storyline--each episode begins with a video clip or text message providing clues to characters in the show, as well as to viewers watching at home. Fans may also sign up to receive text messages directly on their own phones.  

For more on Valemont:

- read this release

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It's interesting to see big players experimenting with multi-platform programming. The challenge seems to be in balancing good programming for those who want a lean-back experience with opportunities for deeper engagement. Lost and Heroes have been playing this game for years, of course, but the centerpiece has always been the prime-time broadcast, and both have been relatively satisfying to watch just that broadcast as a standalone. Valemont seems to take the required engagement to another level, asking for more participation from viewers. Will it fly? 

Mobile payment has been slow to enter the United States, but it's great to see retail brands like Starbucks forging their own way.

Does this spell the death of Twitter? One thing is for sure - it'll get confusing merging Twitter handles and real names, especially for those of us that auto-update FB status via Twitter.

Frito-Lay is upping the ante on what has become it's annual UGC ad contest. Love the jab at Madison Ave.

An example of ZBD Solutions' electronic shelf tags. Image via ZBD.

Digital price tags making their way into grocery stores - very interesting. About time.

Media multitasking is on the rise, creating new opportunities for non-linear messaging that spreads across platforms.

The other thing that continues to surprise me is that despite massive growth in online and mobile video consumption, TV consumption is also on the rise. Evidently we've got an insatiable appetite for video content.

via Reuters