Providing market intelligence for more than 35 years

Rapid TV News

TV users gravitate towards dedicated apps

In a move that could have profound ramifications for programming, more research has confirmed the trend that TV users are increasingly turning to dedicated apps to access TV channels.

According to a new survey by Parks Associates, as many as 14% of smartphone/tablet users recently used a TV-content app in the first quarter of 2013 and three-quarters of these users have expressed satisfaction with what they have accessed.

Perhaps revealing the demographic that is driving the trend, the analyst also revealed that the most popular apps were those from networks such as MTV, Nickelodeon and USA Network as well as apps for shows like Glee and The Walking Dead.

“The latest round of apps is from content providers, not satellite and cable TV companies," said John Barrett, director, consumer analytics, Parks Associates. "They want to increase viewer loyalty to their shows and enhance the viewing experience with second-screen activities, and it is working, especially among Millennials. This 'second-screen' generation is accustomed to consuming content on multiple devices."

Parks Associates also found that this group has much higher interest in programme/channel-specific apps than do older consumer segments. It cites shows such as Gossip Girl, which it says aims for a Millennial audience and which offers an app enabling viewers to watch show-related videos and virtually tour show locations.

“Companies in the television industry are experimenting with several approaches to TV-related apps for mobile devices,” added Brett Sappington, director, research, Parks Associates. “Some are already noting several benefits, including greater viewer immersion, the ability to appeal to viewers outside of the broadcast window, and new aspects to storytelling. However, the most important implication may be for advertising. As consumers increasingly tune into mobile devices during commercial breaks, these apps provide a way to keep viewer attention.”

From the article, "TV users gravitate towards dedicated apps."

Previously In The News

TV Everywhere fails as a retention strategy in US

Adoption and ARPU for three-screen (TV/PC/cell phone) subscription video packages, including single-play services, bundled packages and stand-alone OTT services is on the rise, according to new res...

The jury is out on 3G tablet sales

Other firms are forecasting robust growth for 3G-enabled tablets. Parks Associates sees sales of tablet computers accelerating as the number of global 3G and 4G wireless subscribers grows. Earlier...

TV Everywhere spreads across Europe

Following its increasing adoption in the US, the concept of TV Everywhere is now proliferating across Europe according to new research by Parks Associates. The analysts found that households in...

81% of N. American pay-TV subs have TV Everywhere capability

Even though TV Everywhere is still very much immature, even in North America, research from Park Associates calculates that by mid-2011 the concept will be available to 81% of subscribers in the re...