Pay-TV and internet service provider British Sky Broadcasting (BSkyB) is to integrate the technology of TV guide and chat app (software application) developer zeebox into its own TV platform in the UK, and will take an equity stake in the UK technology start-up.
According to zeebox's web site, its free app knows what you're watching on TV and also shows what your friends are watching; it can provide more information about what you're watching, instantly and lets you buy and download relevant stuff.
The zeebox service, which is currently available on Apple's iPhone and iPad products, as well as the web, serves up social media feeds and conversations via Twitter and Facebook.
Subscribe to MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE
Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Scheduled for the launch in the first half of this year, the new service will offer Sky customers 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.
Sky has taken a 10% equity stake in zeebox, providing funding to support the company's future product road map and global roll-out plans. As part of the deal Sky Media will become the exclusive advertising sales agent for zeebox's synchronised advertising inventory.
"Thanks to Sky's backing we now also have the resources and expertise to set our sights firmly on international expansion alongside further innovation here in the UK and Ireland," said Ernesto Schmitt, a former EMI board director who is co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of zeebox.
jh
-
-
Pension withdrawals on the rise, HMRC data reveals
Pension withdrawal data has led to some raising concerns over savers ‘raiding’ their pensions unsustainably.
-
ONS: UK economy recovered from pandemic faster than previously thought
Revisions from the ONS showed the UK economy has grown since the pandemic, while the latest data showed GDP grew in the second quarter of 2023.
