VAV

VAV Apps Sdn Bhd is a Malaysian media technology company founded in 2015 by brothers Alden Leong, who serves as Chief Strategy Officer, and Addie Leong, the Chief Marketing Officer. The company has developed a platform that uses inaudible, high-frequency audio signals to transmit digital content, such as vouchers and promotions, from a media source to a user's smartphone. This technology is designed to work across various audio-emitting sources, including televisions, radios, and public announcement systems, effectively turning passive broadcast advertising into an interactive experience. The core idea materialized in September 2015, and the founders rapidly developed a business plan and began approaching partners and investors.

The company's business model centers on creating a new digital advertising channel by monetizing the sound media space. It serves advertisers and broadcasters who wish to increase audience engagement and track advertising impressions, a task that is traditionally difficult with broadcast media. By embedding inaudible soundwaves into their content, clients can send deals directly to consumers' phones via the VAV App or through a plugin integrated into the client's own mobile application. This creates a direct call-to-action and bridges the gap between online and offline marketing. VAV has worked with notable Malaysian brands and broadcasters, including Astro Kah Lai Toi and Cuckoo. For instance, a collaboration with the TV program VAV Choice resulted in 170,000 impressions and an 18% voucher redemption rate, demonstrating the technology's effectiveness in targeting interested consumers.

VAV Apps has secured approximately $533K in funding through multiple rounds, including grants and a seed round. Its first funding came in 2015, followed by a significant seed round in January 2017. Key investors include Cradle, Axiata Digital Innovation Fund, Teraju, Mavcap, and Intres Capital Partners. This capital has been instrumental in refining the technology and supporting the company's expansion plans beyond Malaysia. The company operates in the media and information services sector, positioning itself as a technology provider for creating interactive trans-media marketing campaigns.

Keywords: audio signal technology, inaudible media, mobile marketing, broadcast advertising, audience engagement, sonic deals, voucher redemption, trans-media marketing, soundwave advertising, second screen interaction, ad impression tracking, Alden Leong, Addie Leong, VAV Apps, Malaysia, digital advertising, media technology, sound monetization, interactive media, promotional platform