NPO app listens to inaudible signal on TV channels for synchronization

The NPO has incorporated technology in its updated mobile app with which a smartphone can synchronize information with a program on the three public channels on the basis of an inaudible audio signal. The technology can be used for quiz shows, among other things.

The ‘Live Sync’ technology in the renewed NPO app was developed by the company Civolution. Provided the user activates this option, the NPO application is able to ‘listen in’ while watching a program on NPO 1, 2 or 3. The software can obtain the precise timestamp and information about the selected TV channel via an inaudible audio signal. A second screen application can use that ‘watermark’ to know exactly what a TV viewer has on it and thus show related information synchronously with the TV program, for example audience questions during a quiz program.

According to Civolution, the technology can also be useful for other applications, for example for providing additional information in the electronic program guide, showing previous episodes on the Uitzend Gemist service or providing links to websites and social media platforms. The NPO can indicate by means of an icon in the TV image during a broadcast whether the inaudible audio signal is being sent.

In addition, the Ster advertising platform has also been integrated into the new NPO app, allowing an advertiser to show links to websites on TV viewers’ tablets and smartphones.

The technology that the NPO implements in its app is not entirely new; commercial broadcaster RTL has been experimenting with the same technique since March.