MUMBAI: zeebox, the TV viewing companion, has signed on Viacom as a strategic partner, joining Comcast Cable, NBCUniversal, HBO and Cinemax in backing the universal, cross-channel TV viewing companion app for iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Android, and the Web.
zeebox, which had launched in the US a few days ago, is the brainchild of former EMI executive Ernesto Schmitt and former BBC iPlayer CTO Anthony Rose. It enables consumers to discover what to watch by browsing comprehensive TV listings, social media and personalised recommendations. Viewers can engage with their favourite television personalities directly through zeebox and even buy the products they see on TV. zeebox also automatically displays richer information about each program as viewers are watching.
zeebox CEO, co-founder Ernesto Schmitt said, "zeebox was built as an open platform that programmers and operators can easily use to enhance their brands on the second-screen, engage with fans and build new ways to bring the TV and Internet advertising industries together. The most engaging, compelling consumer experience on the second screen will be driven by the depth of content and the degree of integration with established TV brands - for this reason we‘re delighted to be working with Viacom and its world class entertainment brands."
Like Comcast Cable and NBCUniversal, Viacom is backing zeebox with investments and promotional commitments, while preparing to enhance their top TV shows on zeebox. zeebox‘s OpenBox API is designed to enable any TV network to enhance its shows on zeebox, distribute exclusive content, and connect directly with fans whilst enabling them to continue using their favorite social media, such as Twitter.
Viacom Media Networks COO Rich Eigendorff said,"Viacom has the most socially engaged audiences anywhere, and we‘re constantly striving to give our fans new ways to discover and connect with our content. zeebox is a powerful new platform to create even richer and more interactive experiences around our programming, and build an even deeper connection between our brands and our fans."
zeebox‘s OpenBox API allows content owners to enhance their shows and channels on the zeebox app in a matter of hours, distributing exclusive content to consumers, connecting directly with fans through live interactions and social engagement, and monetizing the second screen alongside TV commercials through synchronised, targeted, relevant advertising and affiliate links.
