Popcorn App: Short-Form Video for Workplace Communication

Introducing Popcorn: A New Approach to Workplace Communication

A recently launched startup, Popcorn, is aiming to revolutionize professional interactions by introducing a platform for recording and sharing brief video messages, termed “pops.” These can serve as alternatives to traditional emails, text messages, Slack communications, or even Zoom conferences.

While numerous platforms currently facilitate short-form video creation, the majority are geared towards social media, an environment often unsuitable for professional use. Sending a video recorded on a personal device as an email attachment also lacks the immediacy desired for quick check-ins or greetings.

How Popcorn Works

Popcorn enables users to create concise videos and then distribute a URL link to that video, integrating it seamlessly into any message where a personal touch is desired.

Consider a business networking situation, such as initiating contact with an industry professional – often referred to as “cold outreach.” Instead of a standard LinkedIn message, a Popcorn URL can provide a more approachable and engaging introduction.

Internally, Popcorn can be utilized for daily team check-ins, project updates, or welcoming new team members, fostering a more connected work environment.

Key Features and Functionality

Each video can be up to 60 seconds long, a deliberate limitation intended to encourage conciseness. Users also have the option of recording audio-only messages if they prefer not to appear on camera.

For those pressed for time, playback speed can be increased. Users wishing to receive “pops” can share their unique “popcode” – for example, try U8696.

The Founders and Inspiration

The concept behind Popcorn originated with co-founder and CEO Justin Spraggins, who has a strong background in consumer app development. His earlier success included Looksee, a photo-based connection app launched in 2014.

Spraggins later co-founded Unmute, a social calling application that predated Clubhouse, and subsequently established 9 Count, a consumer app development firm responsible for apps like BFF (formerly Wink) and Juju.

Ben Hochberg, the lead engineer at 9 Count, is also a co-founder of Popcorn (legally registered as Snack Break, Inc.). Development on Popcorn began in 2020, coinciding with the widespread shift to remote work spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This rapid transition to distributed teams may prove beneficial for Popcorn’s adoption, as remote workers seek alternatives to lengthy Zoom meetings and a return to traditional office settings.

The Vision for the Future

Spraggins emphasizes the goal of making workplace communication more enjoyable, personal, and concise. He believes integrating elements of consumer social platforms into the professional sphere is crucial.

“How do you bring the ‘human’ element into interactions with colleagues without resorting to scheduling a formal Zoom call?” Spraggins asks. “We’re striving to create work products that feel more social, akin to Snapchat, rather than purely utilitarian tools.”

Successfully establishing a business-focused social application requires addressing challenges such as enhanced security measures, spam prevention, reporting mechanisms for inappropriate behavior, and a sustainable revenue model.

Availability and Funding

Popcorn is currently available as a free download for iPhone, iPad, and Mac, and integrates with Slack for direct messaging to coworkers. The app’s current functionality is streamlined, with plans to incorporate AR frames for enhanced personalization in future updates.

The startup secured a $400,000 pre-seed funding round from General Catalyst (Niko Bonatsos) and Dream Machine (Alexia Bonatsos, formerly editor-in-chief at TechCrunch). Spraggins indicates plans to seek a seed round in the fall to support hiring, particularly in the AR development area.