THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX

The Box Music Network and digital television company ACTV, Inc. have introduced Box Fusion, the first fully-programmed interactive TV/Web convergence service. Powered by ACTV's HyperTV software, Box Fusion will expand The Box's existing interactivity that allows viewers to access a playlist and order a video by creating a simultaneous broadcast that will enhance its programming.

Beginning April 10th, Box viewers in major cities including New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Philadelphia and Seattle will be able to experience the integration of music television and the Internet. To be a part of the "Fusion," consumers will need access to The Box Music Network and a computer with at least a 28.8 connection in the same room. Then viewers can register and download the free HyperTV plug-in form www.thebox.com or www.hypertv.com. Once downloaded, cybersurfers log on to Box Fusion at www.boxfusion.com and automatically receive and interact with Web content that's synchronized to enhance music videos on The Box. In addition, Box Fusion will soon feature an online marketplace of music, merchandise, tickets and more that relate to the artist playing on The Box.

The Box Music Network CEO Alan McGlade said, "This is a significant advancement for The Box, because Box Fusion is a true enhancement of our existing capabilities, further capitalizing on our unique ability to deliver the only customizable music service in the country. And stop giggling every time I say ‘box!'"

And finally, kids won't have the frustrating task of choosing between the computer and the television and they'll be able to chat online with other music fans and discuss how scandalous Sisqo's "Thong Song" video is.