MTV Australia is set to make history next year when it launches the first-ever livestream-to-TV format.
The Aussie Foxtel channel has partnered up with Viacom Labs on the new project, which has pioneered a breakthrough TV format that pulls in livestreams from fans and viewers as a curated real-time feed during regular programming.
MTV Australia will be the first to produce and screen an original series based on the test in 2017 with an as-yet untitled show.
The experiment was first conducted in June this year when production teams and viewers throughout Australia, US and Europe were invited to livestream themselves dancing to music videos that aired on MTV Music Australia during the test.
Viewers simply got in on the action by using a device that can livestream, as well as using a designated hashtag that producers could then watch in real-time and screen simultaneously.
Not only did the test attract more than double MTV Music Australia’s average audience, but results showed that fans became far more engaged in the programming.
“By partnering with Viacom Labs, we are developing a truly innovative and immersive fan experience never seen on television,” Vice President and Head of MTV Asia Pacific, Simon Bates, said in a statement.
“Marrying the technology of livestreaming with a linear broadcast catapults fan engagement into the 21st century and we’re excited to be the first market to bring the concept to life.”
