British Sky Broadcasting has become an investor in zeebox, a ‘second-screen’ consumer service that brings together broadcast TV and the Internet. Sky has taken a 10% equity stake, providing funding to support the company’s future product roadmap and global rollout plans. As part of the deal Sky Media will become the exclusive advertising sales agent for zeebox’s synchronised advertising inventory. zeebox remains an independent company continuing to operate its own zeebox branded social TV platform in the UK and elsewhere. It will continue to deliver a second-screen platform that broadcasters and programme-makers can use to support and enrich their shows, connect with fans, and obtain new insights into viewer behaviour. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
The zeebox service – currently available on iPhone, iPad and the Web – serves up social media feeds and conversations via Twitter and Facebook, as well as additional information on the topics, people and products featured within specific programmes. Consumers use these ‘zeetags’ to search the web for more information, read up on characters or actors, purchase music, buy products featured on-screen – whether during programmes or ad breaks, or simply share their views with friends and followers on social media. The service will be offered to Sky customers
From later this year, Sky customers will also be able to use a zeebox powered Sky app to access their Sky+ box on the move, so they can manage their Sky+ recording remotely, as well as using their iPhone or iPad as a remote control for their Sky box.
UK, Isleworth, Middlesex
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