Imagine you’re in the middle of a WhatsApp conversation with your cousin in Mexico. She tells you about her day and ends with “ntc.” You, without thinking twice, respond with “hahaha” followed by a laughing crying face emoji. This scene, so common to many of us, is a perfect example of how Spanish is evolving in the digital world. And it is precisely this evolution that Verizon wants to celebrate and document with its innovative initiative: TextSpanish.
Spanish in the age of the thumb
In a world where instant communication reigns supreme, Spanish has not been left behind. Every day, millions of Latinos in the United States merge our linguistic creativity with technology, giving life to a new digital language that reflects the richness and diversity of our community.
But have you ever wondered how we got to this point? How did we go from writing “I love you so much” to a simple “I love you”? The answer lies in our need to express ourselves quickly, but without losing that unique touch that characterizes our culture.
Textspañol: More than a campaign, a mirror of our digital identity
Textspañol is Verizon’s innovative response to this linguistic evolution. This initiative isn’t just a campaign; it’s a tribute to the way Latinos express ourselves in the digital world. As Christina Gonzalez, Senior Director of Marketing at Verizon, says, “Textspañol is a unique, crowdsourced online resource dedicated to the growing lexicon of Spanish text language.”
This project seeks to capture the essence of our modern Spanish, the one we use in text messages, social networks and messaging apps. It is, in essence, a ‘dictionary’ for Spanish textual slang, created by and for the community.
According to a recent study by Nielsen, Latinos not only spend more time on social media and messaging services, but young people between 18 and 34 years old are twice as likely to use apps like WhatsApp. This intensive use has given rise to a unique digital Spanish, which varies according to age, region and culture.
Participate and leave your mark on digital Spanish
Verizon invites you to be part of this linguistic evolution. To participate, You can share your favorite Textspañol terms in two easy ways:
- Text your favorite term to Verizon’s toll-free number (833) XQ-DICEN (973-4236).
- Visit Textspañol.com and send your term and meaning directly through the website.
What words will you share? Will it be that “xq” you use instead of “because”? Or maybe that “TQM” you use so often to say “I love you so much”? Every contribution counts and helps paint a more complete picture of how we communicate in the digital age.
But Textspañol is not just about contributing, it is also about learning. The website offers a fun quiz where you can test your knowledge or learn new expressions. It’s an interactive way to immerse yourself in the richness of the Latin digital language!
Art meets words: Humberto Cruz and Textspañol
To give visual life to this project, Verizon has partnered with Humberto Cruzthe talented Mexican-American artist known for his work on the cover of Karol G’s “Mañana Será Bonito” album.
Cruz has infused the website with his signature collage style, creating a visual experience that perfectly complements the linguistic creativity of the Latin community. Imagine emojis fused with letters, abbreviations coming to life in colorful shapes, and words dancing among images that represent our culture.
Beyond a month: Textspañol as a permanent resource
Although the campaign is being launched during Hispanic Heritage Month, Textspañol is not limited to a temporary celebration. The resources and content created, including a pack of stickers designed especially for this initiative, will remain accessible beyond October 15th, which you can download and use in all your conversations.
As Verizon says: “With the Textspañol sticker pack, we are filling a void in text messaging and social sharing to empower Latinos to fully express themselves in culturally relevant ways.”
Why is Textspañol more than just words?
Textspañol is not just a collection of terms; it is a reflection of our constantly evolving identityBy participating, you’re not only sharing your unique way of communicating, but you’re contributing to a project that documents how Spanish adapts and flourishes in the digital age. It’s a window into how we keep our roots alive while adapting to new technologies.
The future of Spanish is in your hands (literally)
Whether you use “k” instead of “que,” have your own way of saying “LOL” in Spanish, or have invented an abbreviation that only your group of friends understand, your voice matters. Textspañol is your chance to leave your mark on the history of Latin digital language.
Don’t wait any longer, join this celebration of creativity, technology and Latinidad. Share your favorite words and be part of the Textspañol revolution.
Because in the digital world, our Spanish has a lot to say. And with Textspañol, Verizon gives us a platform to do so. And staying true to its brand essence: “Verizon keeps you connected to the people and passions you love.” What will you say in this new language we are creating together? Ready to join Textspañol? Visit Textspanol.com to participate in this initiative and download the exclusive Verizon sticker pack.