Protagonists provides a software‑only navigation layer that adds choice‑driven interactivity to audio streams without requiring a screen or voice interface.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Listeners of podcasts, audiobooks, and music often engage with content while their hands and eyes are occupied, limiting interaction to passive consumption. Existing interactive audio solutions rely on visual screens or voice interfaces, which are unsuitable for many on‑the‑go scenarios.
Solution
Protagonists offers a software‑only navigation user experience that enables choice‑driven audio interactions without requiring a screen or voice UI. The platform integrates with existing devices—such as smartphones, wearables, or car infotainment systems—to present interactive audio moments that can be controlled through simple gestures or button presses. By converting passive listening into an interactive experience, Protagonists creates a new media category that can be monetized through choice‑based content and targeted advertising. The solution is designed for operators, developers, and technologists who want to embed interactive audio into their existing media offerings.
Target Audience
Primary customers are media operators, podcast and audiobook platforms, and developers who want to add interactive, screen‑free experiences to their audio content for users engaged in hands‑busy activities.
Features
- Software‑only navigation layer that adds branching, decision points, and interactive elements to audio streams
- Compatibility with any device that can play audio, requiring no additional hardware or visual display
- Simple, screen‑free control mechanisms (e.g., button presses, tactile gestures) suitable for hands‑and‑eyes‑busy contexts
- API and SDK for developers to integrate choice‑driven audio into podcasts, audiobooks, music, and other audio formats
- Real‑time analytics and reporting on user choices to enable targeted monetization and content optimization