Virgin Media unveils iPad companion app for TiVo service

Virgin Media has announced the launch of an iPad application that allows users to control the TiVo next-generation entertainment platform via the Apple tablet.

The feature will be released as part of the TiVo service's first major software update, which is due to be rolled out in the coming months. As well as the iPad app, it will incorporate several other features that have yet to be announced.

Subscribers who download the application will be able to use the iPad to search content listed on the TV Guide, as well as the thousands of hours of on-demand shows available, without interrupting what they are already watching.

At the swipe of a finger, they can then begin viewing the programme they have found via the app on their TV sets.

Cindy Rose, executive director of digital entertainment at Virgin Media, said: "The companion app and other forthcoming enhancements ... form part of our long-term strategy to deliver the most dynamic and user-friendly multiscreen entertainment experience in the UK."

The announcement comes shortly after Sky released its Sky Go app, which allows iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, PC, Mac and laptop users to watch live TV on the move.