Would you rather type a brand name to skip a video ad? Solve Media thinks so.

Those 15 second pre-roll adverts are becoming increasingly grating to my ears. I typically hit mute or close the tab until they’re finished before getting on with the video.

According to Ari Jacoby, the CEO of Solve Media, less than 2% of users engage with a typical pre-roll ad. “Consumers skip about 70% of pre-roll ads and generally tune-out otherwise,” he says.

This is why Solve Media has decided to apply its CAPTCHA-alternative, ad technology to online videos. Now, instead of watching pre-roll adverts, you can skip them by typing a branding message into a pop-up text box. Jacoby says Solve Media’s pre-roll type-in ads generate over 15% engagement. (Data from over 20 campaigns.)

“With our platform, consumers get to their content faster, publishers offer a better user experience without hurting their wallets, and advertisers get maximum memorability. Feedback has been very positive. Agencies and advertisers like that we can basically “insure” their pre-roll ad campaigns and guaranteeing attention,” he says.

Solve Media rolled out its video platform today with Expedia, GM and Toyota as launch partners. To learn more, watch the video below, and watch out for the cat in the melon helmet.

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