BSkyB has acquired a ten per cent stake in the social app Zeebox, which can be downloaded onto iPhones, iPads or the web.
The firm hopes to launch a combined service of broadcast TV and the internet during the first half of 2012, becoming the first company to integrate Zeebox into its own apps, which include Sky+ and Sky Go.
Sky customers will be able to watch TV at the same time as looking up information about a programme or actor, purchase music used on the show or discuss the series with Facebook friends and Twitter followers in one place.
Emma Lloyd, Sky's director of emerging products, said: "Sky took an early position of leadership with companion devices, having recognised the demand from our customers to use second screens to discover, enjoy and interact with their favourite content.
"The integration of Zeebox's innovative technology will enable us to make the companion device experience even richer and more engaging."
Later this year, the company is planning to enable its customers to access their Sky+ boxes on the go with a Zeebox-powered app.
The Guardian recently reported that Zeebox experienced a three-fold boost in traffic on Christmas and Boxing Day.
