If you’re a gadget loving fan who, like us, has a little bit of a soft spot for the X Factor, then we’ve got some cracking news for you. Media moguls Simon Cowell and will.i.am are looking into launching a technology-centric X Factor spin-off show.
Yes, according to The Sun the Black Eyed Peas singer-turned tech guru and Mr Cowell are in the process of planning a new show with an X Factor style, but with the aim of finding the next big name in technology, not a warbling pop star.
The project is known as ‘X Factor for Tech’ at the moment, although it’s not clear if that will be the final name. When quizzed about the show, will.i.am had the following to say; “singing and performance create a couple of jobs. But this will create lots. It’s about getting in touch with youth and giving them a platform to express themselves — whether that’s in science or mathematics.”
The format of the show is likely to follow that of the X Factor, with the key difference being that contestants will come on stage to present their big idea that they hope will change the tech world, rather than belting out the tunes. It sounds like a gadget-centric mashup of Dragon’s Den and X Factor to us, which is definitely something we’d tune in every week for.
While he may seem an odd choice for a tech show judge to some, will.i.am is a long-time lover of tech. He’s been flying the flag for BlackBerry smartphones for several years now, and has recently become the Director of Creative Innovation for computer giant Intel. He’s sure to have a good idea about what’s good in the tech world, but we’re not so sure about Simon Cowell – unless it’s something involving scantily clad ladies we’re pretty sure he won’t be interested.
Who would you like to see make up the panel of judges on a show like this? We’d want Microsoft’s Steve Ballmer for his hilarious facial expressions, for starters.
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