AI-driven startup Shortpedia eyes expansion in Tier II and Tier III cities

This announcement comes in addition to Shortpedia’s analysis showcasing a 30% spike in overall userbase along with a sharp 65% rise in its news audio consumption since the lockdown, mostly resulting from the non-metro cities of UP and Bihar.

AI-driven smart content app Shortpedia, with a ‘news on the go approach’, has announced its plan to strengthen its presence in Tier II and Tier III cities of India. This announcement comes in addition to Shortpedia’s analysis showcasing a 30% spike in overall userbase along with a sharp 65% rise in its news audio consumption since the lockdown, mostly resulting from the non-metro cities of UP and Bihar.

The app provides short news and fresh handpicked content and offers a seamless consumption experience by presenting content in multiple formats like audio, video, and AI interface-driven short textual news.

After following an optimistic approach in the metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, the startup now aims to penetrate the untapped potential of tier II and tier III cities that present a strong demand for vernacular ‘news on the go’ digital platforms.

Mayank Jain, Chief Product Officer, and Co-founder, Shortpedia said, “Shortpedia is expanding its reach at a digital, technological and strategic level. The plan addresses the emerging need of providing relevant and fresh content in vernacular languages for the next wave of internet users from Tier II and Tier III cities alongside innovative product offerings for advertisers. We are also exploring strategic partnerships for enhancing our capabilities through effective targeting and delivery of content to the end-users. 

“Our audio feature has resulted in a rising userbase along with a change in the way people consume news and other content. We are also pilot testing a host of other features such as non-intrusive ad format. This is in line with our aim to drive a seamless and relevant experience for viewers while ensuring advertisers gain maximum value as well.” Mayank added.

Shortpedia’s focus on scaling up the platform and technology capabilities has led its growth strategy in the country. The startup has witnessed a fast pacing growth over the months; closing at Rs 65 lakh in revenue in the past six months prior to the COVID-19 outbreak in March. It is further looking to clock over Rs 2 crore in the current financial year.

The app currently has clocked more than 1.7 million downloads and continues to witness a month on month growth. Some of its USPs include its unique audio news feature and its non-intrusive advertising format which allows for a seamless consumption experience.