Virgin to launch 'iPad-only' magazine

From: http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/pda/2010/jul/16/virgin-launch-ipad-only-magazine-maverick

Virgin is expanding its global empire into the world of consumer magazines – but you won't find a print edition.

Headed up by Holly Branson, 29-year-old daughter of company boss Richard, Virgin's new title Maverick is set to make its debut on Apple's iPad in October. Maverick will then be available on iPhone and Android devices, according to AdAge.

Former FHM, Zoo and Arena editor Anthony Noguera is reportedly "on board for launch".

Editorial will be geared towards technology, film and design, its revenue coming from subscriptions, downloads and advertising, it is understood.

Virgin is teaming up with London-based publishing company Seven Squared to develop the applications.

Mashable reports a Virgin executive as saying: "More than 8 million people will own iPads by the end of the year. It's the fastest-selling gadget ever and it's the most exciting thing to happen to the magazine market in a long time, but no one has yet got it right."

Those are the details as we have them – we're chasing more, so stay tuned.

Its interesting to note how magazines are not only moving away from printed publications, but from web publications as well. Virgin have noticed the potential of new media outlets like those created by Apple. By only publishing the magazine on the iPad, it shows that the target audience are the elite with money to spend on the latest technology.