Introducing Instant Reactions on Ipsos iSay - an easy, mobile‑first way to share your real‑time reactions while you watch short videos. With your permission, we use your device’s camera to read your natural facial expressions - no acting, no overthinking - so brands can see which moments are clear, enjoyable, and memorable.
Why your reactions matter
Videos that spark positive feelings - and end on a high - are more likely to grab attention and be remembered. With Ipsos iSay Instant Reactions, we capture those emotions in the moment as you watch, so there’s nothing to perform or overthink.
By measuring real‑time reactions, we can pinpoint exactly which moments resonate and which don’t, helping brands make clearer, more engaging videos. Your responses are then combined with many others to create a clear, anonymous picture of what’s working - never linked to you personally.
What we measure
We measure a few simple, easy‑to‑understand signals while you watch:
- Happiness captures smiles and other positive reactions.
- Surprise flags those “wow” moments.
- Confusion tells us when something isn’t clear.
We also detect Sadness, Disgust, Fear, Contempt, and Neutral states. Engagement reflects whether you showed any of these common emotions during the video. And we look at Visual Attention - how much you’re looking at the screen – by analyzing head position and gaze direction.
Among these signals, we focus most on Happiness (a read on positive feelings) and Engagement (your overall reaction). Visual Attention helps us pinpoint the exact moments when people are most focused - often when something special is on the screen.
Your privacy and control come first
Your privacy and control come first. Participation is always your choice - we only access your camera if you say yes - and it’s active only while the video content is playing. That includes both video and audio-only experiences: during audio sessions, the camera stays on while you listen so we can capture natural facial reactions. For audio, a static speaker image will be displayed on the screen. For video, you will watch it as usual.
Recordings are stored securely for up to 30 days, and our trusted technology partner, Entropik, also retains them for up to 30 days solely to help analyze expressions. After that, they’re deleted. If you stop the survey or withdraw consent at any point, we delete your recording.
We use only summarized, aggregated findings in our research. We never sell to you, market to you, or share your data with third parties for marketing. Raw data is stored by Ipsos on EU servers (or locally). Because you may see new or unreleased content, we’ll also ask you not to copy, share, or post anything you see.
What you’ll need
To take part, you’ll need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a working webcam and sound, along with a stable Wi‑Fi connection or strong mobile signal. Make sure you’re in a well‑lit spot so your face is clearly visible to the camera.
Step‑by‑step: what to expect
1. Check your connection
This survey includes videos. For the best experience, use Wi‑Fi or a strong signal.
2. Quick sound check
You’ll test your speaker volume before the videos start.
3. Read and agree (if you’re comfortable)
You’ll see a short explanation of how the webcam survey works, our confidentiality terms, and links to a Detailed Agreement and Entropik’s privacy policy. You can choose:
- Yes, I agree and wish to participate
- No, I do not agree
4. Allow camera access
Your browser will prompt you to enable your camera. Select Allow to continue. Then the webcam will be turned on, but it won’t record anything.
5. Get set
Position your device so your face is centered and well lit. Sit naturally - no need to exaggerate expressions.
6. Watch a few short videos
The camera records only while the videos play. Between videos, it’s off. Just watch as you normally would.
7. Answer a few questions
We’ll ask you some questions about the videos and whether you recognized the brand.
8. All done
We combine your anonymous results with those of many other members to help brands improve their videos.
Tips for a smooth experience
For a smooth experience, sit facing a light source so your face is well lit, and avoid bright windows behind you. Keep your face fully visible - no sunglasses or masks - and rest your phone, tablet, or computer on a stable surface so the camera doesn’t shake.
Close any other apps or browser tabs that might be using the camera in the background. If your browser asks again for permission, simply select Allow to keep the camera enabled.
Common questions
Why record my face? Facial expressions capture natural, instant reactions that are hard to describe in words. This helps make videos clearer and more enjoyable.
What exactly is recorded? Your facial expressions while you watch, plus basic technical details like date/time and IP at the time of recording.
How will my data be used? A computer summarizes your expressions to show how engaging the media is. Findings are anonymous and aggregated for research only.
What if I’m not comfortable? Participation is your choice. You can say no or stop at any time, and your recording will be deleted.
What if I wear a head covering? You don’t have to remove your headscarf or cap, if you’re wearing any, but your whole face must be visible.
A quick note on confidentiality
You’ll be asked not to share or reproduce anything you see (images, videos, ideas). This protects our clients’ work and keeps the research fair for everyone.
Ready to try it?
First, complete your Ipsos iSay profile so we can match you with the right studies. Then, take as many surveys as you can - your next invitation could be an Instant Reactions session. Your invite will show the incentive and remind you that you’re always in control. If you’re on Wi‑Fi, in good light, and ready to share your natural reactions, we’d love to have you take part. Just a few minutes from you can help shape videos you actually want to see.
