IWedia has launched a new solution that combines popular messenger apps with video content to allow family and friends to watch TV content together.
WatchParty will be showcased on iWedia’s stand 5.F80 at IBC2023, held in Amsterdam from 15-18 September 2023.
WatchParty enables users to invite unlimited numbers of friends and family to come together and watch live broadcasts or OTT. It offers a host of use cases; including sports events, entertainment shows, YouTube content or watching user-generated content from cloud video platforms. Viewers can use popular mobile messenger apps such as Telegram to create and manage groups and see the chat in real-time on their TV screens.
Hans-Jürgen Desor, CEO, iWedia, said: “Imagine watching a global sporting event with people who are scattered around the country or watching your latest vacation video with friends and family remotely. WatchParty brings back the wonderful connection of a common viewing experience, enabling people to share their thoughts through chat and emoji functionality while enjoying content together. It is a fun and easy-to-use solution with a ‘lean-back’ experience that bridges the gap between personal social media and the operator’s world, connecting people and increasing customer engagement and loyalty.”
The number of users is unlimited, allowing operators to create and host WatchParty groups for mass live events providing the opportunity to expand the broadcast reach. Installation and usage of the WatchParty app on the TV is very straightforward, and the app will not include video or audio calling as this may detract from the joint viewing experience, and many TV users don’t appreciate cameras in their living rooms.