FREE
iPad Only
Version: 1.0
Tested on: iPad 2 (iOS 4.3.2)
Rating: 4 of 5
Over the past few months, there have been a lot of apps made by big TV networks specifically for the iPad. VH1 Co-Star is the latest addition to such apps which offers a fresh approach to viewers interactivity. This app does not provide you with full-length episodes of the TV series, rather it provides you a way to interact with other viewers while you're watching the show.
The main feature of VH1 Co-Star is the Watch With feature. This feature highlights the VH1 community who are actively tweeting or posting on their Facebook accounts with comments related to the series that's currently showing on VH1. With this app (and an iPad, of course), you'll get the best sidekick to actively involve in this community. By setting up your Twitter and Facebook accounts beforehand, you'll be all set to join in the conversation.
Now, VH1 Co-Star does not leave you after the show. You can playback all the conversation that has been recorded throughout various shows, even the ones you missed. You can also browse through a good selection of photos and videos on most episodes. And, the best part of this app is its Gamification feature. Yes, this app allows you to unlock up to 34 achievements (they may add more achievements in future updates) by actively involved and using the app.
Overall I think this app is very good, a must-have if you're a fan of VH1. When the other TV networks are writing down the Twitter hash tag on the screen, VH1 has gone one step ahead using an iPad app. This allows VH1 to filter the viewer comments and to forward the best comments to other viewers using the Watch With feature. With this little bit of control, I think VH1 has successfully implemented a good model for viewers interactivity. I'm looking forward for future updates of this app and how viewers use this app to its fullest potential.
I'm going to leave you with the schedule for the upcoming VH1 shows included in the app. I haven't tested this, but I have a feeling the episodes will be automatically refreshed on daily basis with shows that are scheduled that day. You can also modify the settings within the app so that you'll be notified when your favorite series are showing on VH1. So, if you're a VH1 fan, get this app to become the VH1 Co-Star!
