ITV Commercial and FremantleMedia UK today announced that, for the first time in the show’s history, The X Factor viewers will be able to vote for their favourite acts through a new in-app voting system.
The brand new service, which was created in partnership with Tectonic Interactive and Tellybug, will give viewers a sleek, in-app voting alternative on iOS devices.
Ann Cook, ITV’s Director of Interactive and MD of ITL said: “We are delighted to join forces with Tectonic Interactive and Tellybug, who understand completely our desire to provide a robust, user-friendly service for The X Factor viewers. This is a strategically important move for ITV as we seek to further engage with our audiences across multiple platforms.”
From Friday 11th October, viewers can download the iOS version of The X Factor app, which will display a range of voting options for the live shows, which kick off on Saturday 12th October. When the voting window opens at the end of the programme, viewers will be able to cast their vote immediately through the app.
Before voting opens each week, fans will be able to pre-purchase votes to cast during the voting window. Votes are purchased in packs of two at £0.69 with an option to buy a pack of 6 votes at £1.99. Viewers can use them one at a time or all together in a Super Vote for one act. Viewers can only buy a maximum of six votes at any one time and must use them all before purchasing more.
Peter Cassidy, Head of FremantleMedia UK Interactive said: “In-app voting in The X Factor is a natural step for viewers. This is an already highly-engaged, technically-literate audience looking for seamless second screen experiences. This new app upgrade is a great addition to the truly interactive experience that is The X Factor.”
Andy Shaw, CEO and Co-founder of Tectonic Interactive, said: “This is a bold and interesting move for ITV. They are pioneering in this space and we are delighted that they have recognised our technical capability and experience to help them bring this innovative proposition to market.”
Matt Millar, CEO Tellybug, said: “We are proud to be part of the X Factor app’s continued growth and evolution. The Fifth Judge play-along is a huge success, and with the addition of the Tectonic platform and In-App Voting for the live shows this year’s app is better than ever.”
The X Factor app, which is sponsored by Dominos, has already been downloaded more than 800,000 times.
