Television network Syfy has teamed up with Philips to create an immersive lighting experience for viewers of its upcoming 12 Monkeys series, using Philips Hue lighting system.

Once paired with the Syfy Sync second-screen app, the Philips Hue connected lighting system will use the shows soundtrack to generate a lighting track that complements the action on-screen for a more immersive viewing experience.

The two companies have already used a similar system to accompany Syfys Sharknado 2 movie when it showed last year, but this represents the first time the system has been deployed for an entire series, with custom light tracks designed for each of the 13 episodes.

“Syfy is consistently at the forefront of utilising technology for transmedia storytelling,” said Matthew Chiavelli, vice president of digital media and strategy at Syfy. “With Sharknado 2, our fan base whole-heartedly embraced the addition of Philips Hue to their viewing experience. The gritty drama that 12 Monkeys delivers offers a perfect opportunity for us to extend this exceptional capability throughout the entire first season.”

“We constantly look for new and innovative ways to create the optimal environment in the home through unique lighting experiences, from everyday tasks to deeper engagement with your favourite TV shows such as 12 Monkeys,” said Amy Huntington, president of Philips Lighting for the Americas. “Working with Syfy on Sharknado 2, we gave viewers a whole new way to experience television and with 12 Monkeys our partnership pushes the envelope from a move to the first television series with integrated light tracks.”