By Stuart Thomson

TV technology outfit Viaccess-Orca’s VO Secure Player is now featuring Hong Kong service provider PCCW Media’s Watch Party, allowing Now TV’s subscribers to experience the social feature during ongoing UEFA Euro 2020 football matches.

Watch Party enables sports fans subscribing to Now TV to watch live matches while simultaneously interacting with their Watch Party group through video chat for an engaging and immersive viewing experience.

Now TV subscribers can join a Watch Party on Now Player on the iOS/Android App and the web. VO Secure Player provides real-time synchronization of live video across multiple connected devices, including mobile, tablets, and PCs, allowing users to hear comments and see reactions from their Watch Party group.

Head of Technology, PCCW Media, Belinda Chan said: “Live sports streaming is a competitive market, and it is critical for service providers to stay on top of emerging trends to drive better viewer engagement. With VO Secure Player, we can confidently bring our new Watch Party feature to subscribers, offering them a one-of-a-kind viewing experience. The VO’ Secure Player also enables real-time synchronization of premium content across all connected devices in the Watch Party group for a seamless experience.”

Vice President of Sales, APAC at Viaccess-Orca, Dokyung Lee said: “Now TV sets a great example of how a media entertainment company can deliver exceptional social experiences to viewers via innovative technology to enhance overall viewing experience during this challenging pandemic period. The VO Secure Player plays a pivotal role in Now TV’s Watch Party feature, and we are delighted to accompany Now TV on this journey to bring a unique, seamless viewing experience to sports fans.”