The growing success of tablets and smartphones has shifted the focus of the interactive TV industry to the introduction of second screen applications. One example is second screen companion apps that offer extra information about a television program, often synchronized with what happens on screen. In this paper, we investigate a second screen companion app, from the perspective of the viewers and producers of such apps. Based on observations and interviews with viewers and producers, and actual usage data of a companion app from Google Analytics, we present several insights and recommendations for how to design companion apps related to ease of use, timing, social interaction, attention and added value.

This paper identifies important requirements for second screen (game) companion apps. Participants were invited to create their own (board) game to play alongside a TV show. Afterwards they were interviewed about their experience. Analyses of the games and interviews lead to some valuable insights in what contributes to an engaging 'TV game'. Lessons learned include: using events on the TV show to influence the game, and striking the right balance between luck and skill elements.