BSKYB has bought a 10% stake in social TV network Zeebox in a move that grants the broadcaster exclusive rights to use the two-month-old start-up’s technology in its own apps.
Zeebox allows viewers to see what others are watching and connect with them via Twitter or Facebook, find information about programmes, buy products seen on-screen and search popular topics.
While no sum was officially disclosed, Zeebox chief executive Ernesto Schmitt tweeted that BSkyB parted with more than $15m (£9.7m) in the deal.
Co-created by BBC iPlayer developer Anthony Rose, Zeebox remains an independent company, meaning its app and website will continue to be available to non-Sky customers.
Zeebox will use the investment to fund the social media network’s global expansion.
Schmitt said: “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.”
Emma Lloyd, Sky’s director of emerging products, said: “Millions of our customers have smartphones and tablets and regularly use them to engage with Sky on mobile devices, so it’s a natural next step for us.”
