Enpocket, the leading mobile solutions provider, introduced two important innovations to interactive TV this week for the new FX Networks reality show Todd TV, which is produced by Endemol USA.
The first is Live Direction, an instant audience interaction tool within the Enpocket Engine. This allows the television production crew to text a question to T-Mobile subscribers, asking them to make immediate decisions that impact on Todd’s day-to-day life. Should Todd cut his hair, play volleyball or paint his apartment? Within five minutes of sending questions like these, the crew receives instant poll results, allowing Todd to proceed according to the wishes of the audience. Never before has text messaging influenced the action of a television show in such an immediate, flexible way.
Enpocket’s second innovation is Synch-to-TV. During the broadcast of the show, T-Mobile subscribers who opt-in will also receive text messages from Todd synchronized to the TV show. For example Todd may share his private thoughts about meeting his mother for dinner as it is happening on the show.
As well as delivering the Live Direction and Synch-to-TV services, the Enpocket Engine is also providing T-Mobile with a daily picture diary service and SMS text alerts informing the audience of what’s happening between shows. All these advanced services are only available to subscribers of T-Mobile, the show’s official wireless sponsor.
Elizabeth Sherman, VP of New Media for Endemol USA, said:
“Enpocket’s industry-leading mobile messaging technology has made it possible for our field producers to get immediate feedback from the audience. It also gives our viewers a chance to interact with Todd on a much deeper level in ways that are fun. Text messaging is not used on Todd TV as an add-on- it is a key driver of the show.“
Jonathon Linner, CEO of Enpocket, said:
“Giving television viewers immediate control over Todd though their mobile phones will not only change the way television is made, but will also transform the viewers’ relationship with a program, and the advertisers’ relationship with the viewers. Todd TV is an important step because it illustrates how advanced mobile technology can weave television and text together in a compelling way.”
© Enpocket 2003
