Piksel Delivers First Channel-Wide Companion App for Major UK Free-To-Air Broadcaster

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwired - Jan 6, 2014) - Piksel, a global provider of video monetization software and services, has been instrumental in the launch of the first channel-wide second screen app among free-to-air broadcasters in the United Kingdom. Unlike other show-specific second screen solutions, the app is an umbrella for four channels featuring programming enhancements for each. The landmark project demonstrates Piksel's expertise in television's bourgeoning second screen arena, following their launch of 2Si (Second Screen Interactive).

One of the app's most exciting features is the advertising component that allows second screen monetization in two innovative ways. Audio-triggered advertising uses cutting-edge digital watermarking and fingerprinting technology from Civolution, and synchronizes the advertising on the first screen with second screen. Advertisers using this technology can take advantage of the second screen to show additional content, prompt calls to action and personalized advertising. As each app is unique to each user which allows unprecedented access to highly targeted customer segments based on characteristics such as accumulated viewing history, age, and gender.

The app incorporates an electronic program guide (EPG), plus a range of additional content and interactive experiences, that to date has only been available for specific programs. Integration with public and curated social media feeds for each show will along with polling and voting will encourage engagement.

Piksel's Global Lead Analyst, Alan Wolk, explains, "Developing a second screen app for an influential broadcaster is the work we love to do -- a complex project made simple by Piksel. Piksel provided a combination of professional services in the development of the software, systems integration in working with existing suppliers to integrate social, interactive (voting/polling) and advertising elements, as well as managed services. All in all, we've been successful in delivering an elegant second screen solution for the United Kingdom's media savvy viewers."

"Piksel works as a key partner to major media companies to help them realize their strategy for viewer engagement and second screen monetization. We have our finger on the pulse when it comes to second screen and video at the forefront of the television technology industry," concluded Mr. Wolk.

The app is available to download for iOS tablets and smartphones, taking advantage of the growing consumer demand for using a second screen device whilst watching television content.

Alan Wolk and the Piksel team will be at International CES from January 7-10, 2014 in Las Vegas, NV. Mr Wolk is moderating a panel at the 2nd Screen Summit on January 6, 2014, focused on breaking through the hype of social TV and the companion screen. To meet with Alan Wolk at CES and learn about Piksel's expertise in maximizing reach and return with video, including second screen, email alan.wolk@piksel.com or tweet @Piksel.

About Piksel

We help the world's leading brands maximize their reach and return with video.

Comprised of a global team of experts we call Televisionaries, Piksel has helped to design, build, and manage online video services for major media companies like AT&T, Axiata, BSkyB, Mediaset, Sky Deutschland and Televisa, as well as enterprise brands like Airbus, Barnes & Noble, and Volkswagen.

Headquartered in New York City, Piksel offices can be found throughout Europe and the Americas, serving more than 1,600 clients in over 50 countries.

Follow the company on Twitter at www.twitter.com/piksel