Viggle Buys Loyalize to Enhance Audience Engagement

Viggle - the company behind a tool which automatically identifies which TV shows users are watching - has acquired San Francisco-based Loyalize, whose technology allows brands to conduct real-time polls among viewers of live TV shows. Terms were not disclosed.

Loyalize's tools can be used to engage audiences during live TV shows, including sporting events and political debates. Its system enables viewers to answer polls and share their opinions using their smart phones, tablets, laptops and connected TVs. Another service, Loyalize Social Analytics, helps brands track social media mentions, spot influential people and reward their most loyal consumers.

New York-based Viggle enables audiences to earn rewards - such as movie tickets, music and gift cards - by 'checking-in' to the TV programs they are watching through the firm's app. Last Sunday, the firm used Loyalize technology during the broadcast of The Grammys, when viewers checking into the show via Viggle took part in the 'Viggle Live' program of real-time polls and voting.

Chris Stephenson, President of Viggle, said that 78% of his firm's users had checked into the Grammys, and 64% joined in by answering real-time questions, voting and responding to polls relating to the awards ceremony. 'Loyalize introduces a level of engagement unlike anything on the market,' he stated.

Loyalize General Manager Kai Buehler says the acquisition will create a 'powerful combination' to deepen the connection between TV fans, their favourite shows, and their preferred brands.

Web sites: www.viggle.com and www.loyalize.com .