A+E Networks makes HISTORY HERE app available for Apple Watch
Every time a new technology hits the public it creates new opportunities for TV networks to reach audiences and created added values for their brands. A+E Networks just became one of the first TV companies to launch an app for the Apple Watch.
HISTORY HERE, the "interactive travel guide to thousands of historic locations across the United States" has already been dowloaded over 1.2 million times for other devices and will now notify Apple Watch wearers when they are near points of interest. We interviewed Evan Silverman, the SVP of Digital Media for A+E Networks' about the launch of their first Apple Watch app.
Found Remote: Why did History make an Apple Watch app?
Evan Silverman: We're always looking for ways to seamlessly bring History to our audiences, and the Apple Watch platform is ideal to do just that with our History Here app. History was one of the top three brands on Foursquare before that app changed because people loved to be surprised about the history of the bar they were in, or the history of the street they were on, or the history of the building in front of them, for example. We've found that many people don't actively search for historical content, but are delighted when you insert it into their lives in relevant and entertaining ways. Apple Watch notifications and History Here complement each other well."
FR: Why is it important to the network to be one of the first TV networks on the platform?
ES: We didn't create an app for Apple Watch just to be one of the first networks on the platform. There are probably apps built for the Apple Watch that aren't necessarily enhanced by the platform, but History Here is a natural fit given its geo-targeted content and Apple Watch's functionality."
FR: Did you develop the app in house or with help?
ES: A+E Networks Digital Media developed the app in house thanks to the work of our lead mobile designer and one developer.
Wearble technology is going to bring a new big wave of opportunities for TV companies to extend content beyond the main screens.
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