iPad/iPhone > All Reviews > iPhone & iPad Apps > zeebox for iOS review

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 zeebox for iOS review

Heavily hyped TV companion feels like a work in progress

Nick Spence

Manufacturer: Zeebox
Pros: Shows potential with new functionality and features promised, can be used as TV remote for Internet connected TV's and TiVo recorders, Facebook and Twitter integration, ability to set TV alerts.
Cons: Doesn't live up to the hype, adds little to viewing pleasure, highlighted Tweets and keywords can be arbitrary, useless for anyone watching on catch-up services
Min specs: iOS 4.3 or later.
Price: Free
We rate this 3 out of 5.Star rating:

If you're a regular TV viewer then chances are you've seen ads for zeebox, an app for Apple and Android devices as well as viewing online. Billed as your TV sidekick and the best thing to happen to TV since TV, zeebox aims to make the often-solitary pursuit of watching TV more interactive, sociable and fun. It's an idea that's attracted some high-profile supporters, not least Stephen Fry, along with five star reviews. You see and can be seen watching TV shows, by highlighting them on now and next channel listings, which are determined by selecting your TV provider. Users can then chat, interact and view related information, related links and news along with services, apps and products hopefully relevant to that particular show. The social aspects are dependent on your Facebook friends and Twitter followers, and those you follow, also being zeebox users. In reality, you can quickly feel like Billy No Mates, when it appears you're on your own watching that late night BBC Four documentary on the Mayan civilisation.

zeebox

Additionally, beside the listings are 'Starwatch' Tweets from a motley bunch – politicians, celebrities, actors, musicians, sporting types – who may or may not be watching the shows highlighted. Relevant Tweets are often so slight they add nothing to the enjoyment of watching TV. The makers also provide 'Live Zeetags,' hashtag style words associated with each show, which again are very hit or miss. A full 7 day TV guide is also available, supplementing the now and next listings, although this feels clunky to use. For those with Internet connected TV's, zeebox can be used to change channels. Users can also set reminders so they don't miss favourite TV shows, with "cool new functionality" promised by zeebox in the coming months. A long 'Terms of Use' states users must be over 18, which is at best bizarre, the makers claiming they will block access to minors.

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Wed, 25 Apr 2012 zeebox for iOS review

Heavily hyped TV companion feels like a work in progress

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