British Sky Broadcasting has announced the launch of its digital text service, Sky Text. Delivering more than 1,200 pages of news, sport, entertainment and information through the text button on subscribers’ remote controls, its interactive elements also allow viewers to go online to bet on sporting events or to access Sky.com.
The TV betting facility is provided by Surrey Sports, part of the Sports Internet Group, acquired by the group earlier this year. Currently it allows viewers to bet on horseracing and football, with other sports to be added later.
Jon Florsheim, BSkyB’s group director of sales and distribution, said: “By integrating online services within the broadcasting environment, the launch of Sky Text and TV betting brings a new dimension to Sky Digital’s interactive offering. With this initiative, BSkyB is delivering on its pledge to develop a multi-service platform that captures more value from continuing the rapid growth in the Sky digital subscriber base.”
