There has been a lot of confusion in the media about the second screen platform and social TV. Although the two overlap, we are not talking about one and the same concept as some have stated without properly understanding how these apps work and what social TV actually is and what it does. So here are a few pointers for those who are still looking for a way to understand how it all works, what all the commotion is about and why is everybody so pro or so against it.
What is Social TV?
Without saying that this term is controversial, we can say that it has started up a lot of debate and there has been some criticism in this direction. If you believe that the smart TV is the upgraded version of the TV set, social TV is an upgrade of its programs and an opening to other media which permit communication and a sort of control practiced by the viewers.
Social TV is very difficult to explain and to define. One attempt would be to sum up all of the comments made on the margin of TV content. But this means that all social networks, such as Facebook, for example, are a form of social TV, a way of making social interaction possible. We could say that the term is seen as futile, as the platform where people can express their opinions on what they see on TV can be anywhere and that anything that is on TV can be a subject of debate and discussion. Whether you do this on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or you use a special second screen app, the question remains.
What are second screen apps?
This one is easier than the first. Second screen apps are the applications a viewer uses on the smartphone or on the tablet while watching TV. These applications are meant to recover some of the attention stolen away from the show you are currently watching by the desire to find out a piece of information. These apps are designed to keep you tuned in for more than you normally would, given the fact that you have in your reach a device which is far more entertaining, more adaptable and more versatile, not to mention, easier to control.
The second screen platform can be seen like a sort of safety net to catch the attention of viewers which is drifting away from the show. This can happen in a dead moment, or anytime at all, given the short attention span and the low focus power of nowadays watchers. Good TV producers can meet the information needs of viewers before they are formed and stage them up so as to have them all available and within reach. Social TV is the best bet for television to go back to its former glory. This is a way of empowering the people and to revive their interest for “what is on”.
