Discord is taking a new approach to monetization by introducing a virtual currency system that compensates users for engaging with advertising content. The communication platform has begun beta testing Discord Orbs, an in-app currency that represents a strategic shift in how the company balances user experience with revenue generation.
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| A vibrant 3D character representing Discord's playful and modern monetization strategy with the introduction of Orbs |
What Are Discord Orbs and How Do They Work
Discord Orbs function as a digital currency that users can earn by completing promotional Quests within the platform. These quests typically involve interacting with advertiser content, such as watching movie trailers, streaming specific partnered games to friends, or viewing promotional videos. The system builds upon Discord's existing advertising framework while providing a standardized reward mechanism that benefits both users and advertisers.
Earning and Spending Mechanisms
Users participating in the beta program can accumulate Orbs through various promotional activities. The earning structure appears carefully controlled, with Discord maintaining tight oversight of the Orbs economy. Early beta participants report receiving 150 Orbs for watching a promotional video about the Orbs system itself, creating an introductory loop that familiarizes users with the concept.
The spending options range from affordable cosmetic items to more substantial rewards. An Orbs-themed badge costs 70 Orbs, while premium items like animated avatar borders and profile backgrounds require 3,500 Orbs each. Most notably, users can purchase a 3-day Discord Nitro trial for 1,400 Orbs, marking a significant development in Discord's monetization strategy.
Strategic Implications for Discord's Business Model
The inclusion of Discord Nitro as a purchasable reward represents a calculated risk for the platform. Nitro subscriptions constitute Discord's primary revenue stream, making the decision to offer subscription time through earned currency particularly noteworthy. Senior Vice President of Product Peter Sellis explained that Nitro represents the most well-understood, valuable thing on Discord, making it essential for the virtual rewards system to feel meaningful to users.
Discord has implemented safeguards to prevent the Orbs system from undermining its subscription revenue. The company maintains strict control over Orbs availability and distribution rates, ensuring that grinding for permanent Nitro access remains impractical. Existing Nitro subscribers can use Orbs to extend their subscription periods, effectively delaying their next billing cycle.
Benefits for Advertisers and Content Creators
The Orbs system addresses a longstanding challenge for advertisers on Discord's platform. Previously, brands and publishers offering Quests needed to provide their own rewards, such as avatar decorations or in-game bonuses. The standardized Orbs currency eliminates this requirement while ensuring rewards appeal to Discord's diverse user base. Advertisers can now focus on creating engaging content without worrying about reward logistics or audience appeal.
Future Expansion Plans
Discord's ambitions for Orbs extend beyond cosmetic items and Nitro subscriptions. The company plans to expand the virtual currency's utility to include broader Discord functionality and potentially integrate with the platform's app store, which currently hosts free games and group activities. This expansion could transform Orbs into a comprehensive ecosystem currency rather than a simple advertising reward mechanism.
Rollout Timeline and Availability
The Orbs system is currently available to a limited number of users globally as part of Discord's beta testing program. Participants receive notifications when selected for the program, and the company plans a broader rollout in the near future. The controlled launch allows Discord to monitor user behavior, adjust the Orbs economy, and refine the system before widespread implementation.