Unlocking Word Meanings

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

platform / ˈplæt fɔrm / (n) – a combination of technologies that allow the development of applications and processes
Example:
Several companies use social media platforms to promote their businesses.
enable / ɛnˈeɪ bəl / (v) – to allow
Example:
The new smartphone app enables screen-sharing.
upload / ˈʌpˌloʊd / (v) – to send data to the Internet
Example:
I use my mobile phone to upload photos to my online profile.
tap into / tæp ˈɪn tu / (phrasal) – to access a resource
Example:
Our company will tap into the young professionals market.
utilize / ˈyut lˌaɪz / (v) – to make use of something
Example:
The device utilizes several applications.

Article

Read the text below.

Cruise line Royal Caribbean has fused the Snapchat Spectacles with its own scuba mask – the SeaSeeker mask.

Launched in 2016 by popular social media platform Snapchat, the Snapchat Spectacles are a pair of glasses with an integrated camera, which enables live recording of footage. The device works by capturing 10-second clips after the wearer presses a button. Once a video has been captured, it is automatically uploaded to the user’s Snapchat account.

Following Snapchat’s innovation, Royal Caribbean developed the SeaSeeker mask, a customized pair of goggles that allows divers to capture their underwater experience. A waterproof mask, the SeaSeeker resembles scuba goggles that have integrated Snapchat Spectacles. The modified mask, which can last underwater for 30 minutes, is capable of recording audio and high-definition videos. The device then transmits captured underwater footage to the user’s Snapchat Memories, which can be accessed by other users.

As only prototypes of the product are available, Royal Caribbean has filed for a patent. Once approved, the product will be sold to Royal Caribbean guests.

According to Kara Wallace, Royal Caribbean’s Vice President for Marketing, the SeaSeeker mask was developed to allow Snapchat users to see a new side of the Caribbean. Wallace further stated that Royal Caribbean aims to tap into the millennial market by utilizing Snapchat.

In June 2017, Royal Caribbean conducted a trial on the SeaSeeker mask by collaborating with three divers in Mexico. One diver filmed underwater shark migration, while another captured a video of coral reef restoration. The last diver wore the mask while diving into an underwater sinkhole.

Viewpoint Discussion

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.

Discussion A

• What additional features would you like the SeaSeeker to have? Explain.
• What are some possible difficulties that may be encountered when using this device? Explain.

Discussion B

• Do you think uploading underwater videos is an effective way to promote the Caribbean? Why or why not?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of having access to technology while underwater? Explain.