Nielsen: Definition of 'TV viewing' to encompass XBox, iPad

Aside from traditional TV channels, ratings company Nielsen may soon measure TV viewing with Internet-based media such as the Xbox and even the iPad.

 

Nielsen may implement a system to measure broadband, Xbox and eventually iPads, according to an article posted on The Hollywood Reporter.

 

"The decision to expand beyond traditional TV ratings measurement came out of a meeting in New York on Tuesday of the What Nielsen Measures Committee, a group that has been meeting for nearly a year. The committee is composed of representatives from major TV networks, local TV stations, cable TV networks, advertising agencies and some big brand advertisers," The Hollywood Reporter said.

 

It cited "several sources" who said Nielsen is working on a comprehensive plan to capture all video viewing, including broadband and Xbox and iPads.

 

One source at one of the big four networks was reportedly "ecstatic at the prospect of expanded measurement tools," it added.

 

The Hollywood Reporter article also said the move may aim to address complaints by networks that the total viewing of their shows is not being captured by traditional ratings measurements.

 

"Nielsen is said to have an internal goal of being able to measure video viewing on an iPad by the end of this year, a process in which the company will work closely with its clients," THR said.

 

September 2013

 

When the next TV season in the US starts September, Nielsen may have new hardware and software for some 23,000 sample TVs in homes.

 

The TVs include cable, satellite and over-the-air broadcasts, as well as devices that deliver video from streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon.

 

Also included are over-the-top services and TV-enabled game systems like Xbox and PlayStation.

 

"While some use of iPads and other tablets that receive broadband in the home will be included in the first phase of measurement improvements, a second phase is envisioned to include such devices in a more comprehensive fashion," THR said.

 

It cited sources who said the second phase may have a slower timetable. — TJD, GMA News