Toggling the goggle box

A local company builds on technology that will change the way we watch TV

by Peter Yeo
04:46 AM May 04, 2011

SINGAPORE - MTV changed the way we hear - or see, rather - music and propelled the television into every household. But, if Aleph Labs get their way, their technology will change the way we watch television.

Beyond TV (picture) extends the television experience by pushing extra content related to the show onto a "second screen". This extra content would come in the form of real-time, interactive links that integrates social media. For example, while watching your favourite show, you can "like" it so friends and family members will get your personal stamp of approval - be it for the show or just that particular episode.

As CEO Arvind Singh revealed, BeyondTV uses "audio watermarking", technology that uses the microphone on the tablet device to pick up the sound from the television and determines what channel and programme is being watched. The software then pulls out content related to the television programme and pushes it to the tablet.

BeyondTV contains an Electronic Program Guide (EPG), an interactive service that provides viewers with constantly updated information such as schedules and other rich data for current and coming programmes.

Mr Singh explained that most channels already produce an EPG which are synced with televisions, set-top boxes and tablet devices. Major EPG providers like Rovi already have widgets for Internet-connected televisions.

You can "check in" on the show so your friends are updated on the show you are watching. You can then share your thoughts and read comments from friends via social platforms such as Facebook and Twitter.

Information for sports programmes such as team and player statistics or match overviews can also be sent to your tablet. You can also watch replays of key moments - bad refereeing or spectacular goals - during halftime, check on schedules of other matches or purchase match tickets and merchandise.

"Singaporeans are known to be very tech-savvy and are absolutely ready for BeyondTV, especially with integration of social network in the BeyondTV framework," said Mr Singh.

Aleph Labs was one of 11 local establishments that took part in MIPTV last month. MIPTV is a content market for co-producing, buying, selling, financing and distributing entertainment content. The company had the honour of being one of 18 chosen finalists out of 159 entries from 20 countries to take part in Content 360, a competition for new media talents held at MIPTV.

The showcase provided a unique platform for digital producers, interactive agencies, digital designers, Internet content creators, game developers and mobile application providers to pitch their creative ideas. BeyondTV was pitched to the "rich media tablet and social apps" section.

Mr Singh said: "MIPTV was a very successful trip, we got validation for BeyondTV as a concept and our development effort was highly appreciated. We had many meetings during the event as well as substantial follow-ups after." Peter Yeo

Source: www.todayonline.com