'The Walking Dead Story Sync' is a web-based application, available for use on computers and tablets, that allows viewers to vote on polls, view screen shots from the episode, answer trivia, keep tabs on the week’s "kill-count" and connect with other viewers in real-time while watching the episode. AMC’s smash-hit The Walking Dead aired its mid-season premiere on February 12 complete with a slew of interactive, supplementary, online content.
The only thing Story Sync does not offer is live-sync during commercial breaks, leaving viewers on their own to keep occupied during advertising segments.
AMC may not be the first television network using online content to enhance the viewing experience, but it is one of the first to use it in such an extensive and interactive way. With the increasing popularity of tablet and web-app use, along with loyal fans constantly craving more information on their favorite shows, other networks will undoubtedly be following suit with something similar to The Walking Dead Story Sync in the future.
Interactive Kill Count Apps
'The Walking Dead Story Sync' Adds More to the Viewing Experience
Trend Themes
1. Interactive Viewing Experience - The trend of creating interactive apps and platforms that enhance the TV viewing experience by providing extra content and features.
2. Real-time Audience Engagement - The trend of engaging viewers in real-time through interactive features, polls, and trivia, allowing them to connect with other fans and enhance the community aspect of watching TV.
3. Second Screen Usage - The trend of using tablets and computers as a second screen while watching TV, providing additional content and interactive experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Television Broadcasting - The television broadcasting industry can embrace interactive apps like 'The Walking Dead Story Sync' to enhance viewer engagement and offer a more immersive experience.
2. Entertainment Media - The entertainment media industry can adopt real-time audience engagement strategies using interactive platforms to enhance the viewers' connection with their favorite shows and create a deeper fan base.
3. Technology and App Development - The technology and app development industry can capitalize on the trend of second screen usage by creating innovative interactive apps that provide additional content and features to enhance the TV viewing experience.