SWITZERLAND – Although Terpon doesn’t plan to launch its revolutionary 3D virtual-reality webcam until April, suddenly the company is on everyone’s radar. Within the past week, Terpon has signed deals with two major platforms independent cam models use to interact with their fans. Both platforms have integrated Terpon’s hardware with their software in a way that will allow performers to begin broadcasting in real-time within a matter of minutes.
During February, Terpon will provide 1,000 of its cameras to models for free. Those who don’t score a gratis camera may rent one for less than $30 per month, with no minimum obligation period. The package includes 24/7 tech support and equipment replacement or upgrades whenever necessary or available. To sweeten the deal, models receive sales commissions when they refer fans to Terpon’s online store to purchase VR headsets and other accessories.
Founded in 2016 and backed by private venture capital, Terpon is the first company to engage in full-scale manufacturing of a product specifically aimed at VR adult entertainment. With its plug-and-play cameras designed for low-light performance, the company hopes to set the industry standard, of course, but adult is only a single step in Terpon’s bigger plan: After proving its technology and business model in an industry known to brim with early adopters — both commercial and consumer — Terpon intends to become a major player in the mainstream.
On Feb. 1, Terpon and Skype-based chat platform SkyPrivate announced the integration of Terpon’s hardware with SkyPrivate PRO, a pay-per-minute software-as-a-service platform for indie cam models. On Feb. 7, Terpon shook hands on an integration deal with ModelCentro that will allow models to immerse their fans in live or pre-recorded VR experiences. Terpon Chief Executive Officer Jean-Claude Artonne said “a significant portion” of the 1,000 free webcams will be reserved for performers who broadcast their shows through websites on the ModelCentro platform. Artonne also said another deal one of ModelCentro’s sister sites may “finally bridge the gap between live gentlemen’s club performers and a global audience.”
“It’s an exciting time to be moving beyond flat, 2D content toward a much more intimate and immersive kind of entertainment,” Artonne said. “The early-adopter era [for VR] is already done. We are now in the first phase of a truly massive groundswell of VR consumption. Anyone who missed out on [the rise of] tubes and mobile [content distribution] may want to look closely at VR before it becomes too late for them once again.”
