Zeebox Arrives in U.S., Partners with Comcast, NBCU, HBO, Cinemax
The Zeebox second-screen viewing companion has already earned a strong following in the U.K., and today it enters the U.S. market with a splash. Zeebox is partnering with Comcast Cable, NBCUniversal, HBO, and Cinemax to create a cross-channel viewing experience that runs on Apple iOS and Google Android devices, as well as on web browsers.
What sets Zeebox apart is that it recognizes the content viewers are watching and automatically shows them relevant second-screen content. Viewers can use it to engage with on-air personalities or to shop for items featured in programs. They can also read in-depth information about the show they're watching.
Zeebox was created by Ernesto Schmitt, formerly of EMI, and Anthony Rose, formerly the BBC CTO credited with the iPlayer's success. The app helps viewers decide what to watch by offering seven-day TV listings, recommendations from social media (it integrates with Facebook and Twitter), and personalized recommendations.
Partnering with Comcast, NBCUniversal, HBO, and Cinemax should offer a synergistic win for all concerned. Comcast and NBCU are investing in Zeebox and plan to enhance hundreds of their shows with Zeebox, including The Voice and Notre Dame Football.
The London Olympics did much to drive consumer awareness of second-screen experiences. Having one app that can provide content for hundreds of shows should spur adoption and reduce fragmentation. Zeebox notes that its consumer research finds that up to 70 percent of U.S. viewers are interested in the features Zeebox offers.
The Zeebox iOS app is currently available as a free download, and the browser version is available through Zeebox.com.
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