Fox Broadcasting Company (FOX) announced that it is launching a new, first-of-its-kind syndication network that will distribute FOX’s custom sync-to-broadcast experiences – currently available exclusively in FOX NOW apps – to other second-screen TV app providers. Powered by content syndication platform Watchwith, the new network allows partners to take advantage of FOX’s high-quality companion content and ensures that fans can enjoy a premium, cohesive FOX digital content and advertising experience across multiple TV apps and platforms.
Syndication partners at launch include digital leaders Shazam, the world’s leading media engagement company; Viggle, a leading second-screen TV platform that makes TV more rewarding; ConnecTV, the biggest social network designed specifically for TV fans; and NextGuide, the hyper-personalized TV guide app (from Dijit Media) that helps people discover and experience TV shows and movies. Through these partnerships, viewers using Shazam, Viggle, ConnecTV or NextGuide can easily access FOX’s social, behind-the-scenes and interactive content around their favorite FOX shows while synced to the broadcast.
“FOX has some of the most loyal, invested fans on the planet, so we want them to have the richest, most immersive experience possible with our shows and our brand partners – no matter which TV app or platform they use,” said David Wertheimer, President, Digital, Fox Broadcasting. “By syndicating the content we’ve built around our show broadcasts, we’re extending the FOX experience to viewers across all digital platforms and providing our partners with new and valuable opportunities around our content.”
“FOX’s focus on the creation of second-screen content as the shows are being produced is a really important step in the industry, and we’re proud to be one of FOX’s launch partners,” said Doug Garland, Chief Revenue Officer at Shazam. “Given the significant reach of Shazam – 85 million users in the US alone – we’re excited to partner with FOX to engage a wide audience with compelling second-screen content.”
In addition to mobile and tablet second-screen environments, the network is designed to allow FOX to create, manage and syndicate content to the rapidly evolving industry of Smart TVs, Connected TVs and television service providers looking to increase audience engagement. FOX is currently in discussions with such providers and plans to announce additional partners soon.
“FOX is a leader in creating premium sync-to-broadcast experiences,” said Zane Vella, CEO at Watchwith. ”The launch of this syndication network is a true path to scale for FOX, their distribution partners, and advertisers. Watchwith is excited to help power this vision for the innovators at Fox Broadcasting Company.”
Source: Fox Broadcasting Company