Showpal

The idea of using your tablet as a second screen when watching TV has been kicking about for a while, bringing additional infor- mation to viewers as they watch.

TV3's new app is aiming to make that even easier for users. Showpal uses something called audio watermarking technology to ascertain which TV show you're watching on TV3, and
then gives you extra information to go along with that show. That can be anything from facts from around the internet, such as travel advice or tips, to information on presenters or interview subjects .

There are also polls to take part in, and the ability to link your twitter account to the app to follow tweets about the programmes or add your own.

The watermark that is con- tained in the audio can be read up to 20 days after it was broadcast, so any of the programmes you’ve recorded can be used with Showpal for that period.

A few limitations: at the moment it only works on TV3 (not 3e), and only for products broad- cast on live TV between 6pm and midnight.