FremantleMedia Asia and Google, in collaboration with PHD Singapore, have developed a new vote-casting system for talent-show formats such as Idols and Got Talent in India, Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand, as well as pan-regionally.
Fans will be able to vote for their favorite contestants right from the Google Search page on their phone, tablet or computer. This feature will be introduced for 11 FremantleMedia talent shows in the region, with specific titles to be announced as commissions are confirmed, though the partnership has already begun with Vietnam’s Got Talent, which launched in early March.
A trial of Google Search voting took place on The X Factor Indonesia last year. The new voting mechanism will complement existing methods like SMS or in-app voting. A ‘how to’ video will be available alongside the tool.
Rushit Jhaveri, the VP of branded entertainment and digital partnerships for FremantleMedia Asia, said: “We are always looking at new ways to engage our fans through technology. Google search voting on The X Factor Indonesia was so popular with viewers last year and we’re thrilled to extend this across our slate of entertainment shows throughout Asia.”
James Rothwell, the head of social marketing for Google Asia Pacific, noted: “We are incredibly excited to be expanding the Google Search voting platform across Asia. We have been delighted by the results and feedback we have seen so far and hope that more voters across the region will continue to turn to Google Search to keep their favorite contestants in the show.”
David Harling, the regional business director of PHD Singapore, added: “We have been working with Google to look for opportunities to bridge the gap between TV and digital. Bringing Google together with FremantleMedia meant we could deliver a rich and interactive experience, as we knew Google’s voting tool would fit seamlessly into their entertainment shows. Partnerships such as this have paved the way to enhance and modernize the viewer experience and we are excited to build on this in the future.”
