Sky Teams with Zeebox
Users of Zeebox, the second screen "augmented TV" viewing platform started by former BBC iPlayer developer Anthony Rose, received an email today letting them know that the company is partnering with Sky to integrate the platform into Sky's own mobile and tablet apps, including Sky+ and Sky Go.
Sky is the first UK broadcaster to integrate Zeebox into its offerings, though Rose has said from the outset that Zeebox has been designed to be a integrated into TV services in addition to being its own standalone app. Sky subscribers will be able to use a Zeebox app to manage their Sky+ box remotely, as well as using their iPad or iPhone as a remote control while viewing.
In addition to integrating the Zeebox platform, Sky is also taking a 10% equity stake in the company. Exact figures haven't been released, but a Sky press release refers to the deal as a "multi-million pound strategic partnership."
"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," says CEO Ernesto Schmitt, who co-founded Zeebox with Rose.
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