TiVO Turns iPad into Second Screen

One of the most compelling applications for the new tablet format in developed markets is expected to be integrated content, with the device becoming a viewer and a control point for multiscreen services spanning TVs, broadband and mobile. Verizon is said to be planning to launch a Motorola tablet for its FiOS platform in the spring, and now digital video recording pioneer TiVo has created an app that turns the iPad into a second screen.

Focal Points:

• The companion app for the TiVo Premiere service will soon be available in the iTunes store and will turn the iPad into “the world's ultimate remote control network”, according to TelecomPaper. The software creates a dual-screen experience with the same content, user interface and signins, and with full search, browse, discover and share functions.
• This further enhances TiVo‘s connected TV strategy, which has seen it form partnerships with several cablecos such as the UK‘s Virgin Media, Spain‘s ONO, Canal Digital in the Nordic region and Suddenlink in the US. TiVo hopes to attract more such allies by constantly enhancing its platform.
• Commentators welcomed the companion screen concept, which enables users to adopt the online and social habits of connected TV – such as sharing reactions with friends – without these having to disrupt others‘ viewing on the main TV display.

Editor’s Note – A few months ago, I viewed a presentation by Simon Sinek (YouTube) where he mentioned why TiVo has failed. Essentially, Mr. Sinek voiced the opinion that the marketing of TiVo or what the product really does from a strategic perspective was lost to its creators and as a result, it disappeared from the marketplace. This snapshot gives the impression that it is possible to re-invent oneself or at least gain some press space by piggy-backing onto the latest “next-new thing”, the iPad. While piggy-backing may seem to be a good strategy, it may still be short-sighted.