Second screen event flow synchronization

Interactivity on TV has evolved. First, it was possible just to change volume and channels manually, and then the remote control was created turning easier the interaction with TV. Soon TV programs started to interact with the users, through telephone calls, SMS and others. With the evolution of broadcasters and television technologies it was possible to send data within audio and video TV streams, turning feasible running interactive applications to enhance TV viewers experience with extra content. Now we see the use of new technologies, like audio controls, motion sense and second screen, to improve interaction. This work describes techniques used to synchronize second screen applications with main content presented on TV, and proposes an alternative solution based on multimedia synchronization. The Event Flow Synchronization (EFS), based on the Flow Synchronization Protocol, is presented, describing its main characteristics and how it can be used to provide second screen applications. To verify EFS for second screen concepts, the Sidekick platform is presented, detailing its components and functionalities. Lastly, applications developed with Sidekick are presented.