• Samsung voice-controlled universal remote revealed | News | TechRadar
  Samsung has produced a new universal remote control for its range of internet-connected Smart TVs. via Samsung voice-controlled universal remote revealed | News | TechRadar.
• TiVo boosts Virgin results | Advanced Television
  Virgin Media has posted fourth quarter results ahead of forecasts and generated strong cash flows as customers bought into to its new TiVo service and fast broadband offerings. via TiVo boosts Virgin results | Advanced Television.
• Lovefilm CEO Simon Calver Steps Down
  Simon Calver, CEO of Lovefilm has stepped down according to a recent blog post at the Lovefilm site: via Lovefilm CEO Simon Calver Steps Down.
• TiVo sparks dramatic rise in Virgin VOD | Broadband TV News
  Virgin Media has surpassed one billion on demand views during 2011, delivering more views than the cablenet’s own expectations. via TiVo sparks dramatic rise in Virgin VOD | Broadband TV News.
• Reuters: Amazon Prime Instant Video close to Viacom deal, standalone service launch – Engadget
  So far, 2012 has been quiet for Amazon’s all-you-can-eat video streaming service, but that could change soon as Reuters cites anonymous sources claiming the retailer will lock up a deal with Viacom (Paramount Studios, MTV, Nickelodeon, Spike, etc.) soon. via … Continue reading →
• AT&T’s U-verse iPad App Lacks Live TV – 2012-02-07 22:25:24 | Multichannel News
  AT&T has released an iPad companion app for U-verse TV, but unlike some of its cable competitors the telco isn’t letting subscribers watch live TV on the popular tablets. via AT&T’s U-verse iPad App Lacks Live TV – 2012-02-07 22:25:24 … Continue reading →
• Boxee Live TV Review
  very year it feels like we hear the same story: This is when we’ll finally be able to break away from cable or satellite companies and stream all the shows we want to watch when we want to watch them … Continue reading →
• Dixons getting into streaming video with Knowhow Movies | The Verge
  Following in the footsteps of LoveFilm and Netflix, British electronics retail giant Dixons has announced that it will be launching its own video streaming service early this year. via Dixons getting into streaming video with Knowhow Movies | The Verge.
• Apple eyes ISPs to sell ‘iTV’ • reghardware
  Analysis What are we to make of the claims from moles within Canada’s two key telcos that both companies have Apple HD TVs in their labs? via Apple eyes ISPs to sell ‘iTV’ • reghardware.
• Samsung remote for smart TVs to feature touchpad, voice control | The Verge
  Samsung unveiled all manner of new ways to interact with your home electronics at CES 2012, but one thing we didn’t manage to see was a new TV remote control design. via Samsung remote for smart TVs to feature touchpad, … Continue reading →
• YouView will launch this Spring, says TalkTalk • reghardware
  ISP TalkTalk has reiterated its expectation that YouView, the would-be UK standard IPTV platform, will launch this coming Spring. via YouView will launch this Spring, says TalkTalk • reghardware.
• Pathe to add more connected TVs | Broadband TV News
  Pathe Thuis (Pathe at Home), the new Dutch video on demand service from Pathe cinemas is set to launch on Philips and other smart TVs during the next few months. via Pathe to add more connected TVs | Broadband TV … Continue reading →
• Talk Talk: YouView ready to go | Advanced Television
  TalkTalk admitted it had lost a net 60,000 customers in the third quarter but had increased the ARPU which rose from £24.70 to £25.30 as consumers switched to premium products. via Talk Talk: YouView ready to go | Advanced Television.
• Strong gains for connected TV in Netherlands | Broadband TV News
  More than 50% of all TV sets in Dutch homes will be connected to the web within two years, according to GfK research. via Strong gains for connected TV in Netherlands | Broadband TV News.
• Cablevision (Still) Cooking Up Wi-Fi Phone Project – ‘Optimum Mobile’ Still Being Whipped up in Kitchen | DSLReports.com, ISP Information
  Back in 2010 we noted that Cablevision was tinkering with some kind of mobile phone service that relied on Wi-Fi, which would obviously be partnered with the company’s significant investment in offering Wi-Fi to its subscribers along metro NYC commuter … Continue reading →
• The Hermes Project: Sky considering Irish expansion
  Sky are considering expanding their services in the Republic of Ireland by signing a deal with one of more of the country’s local telcos which would enable them to offer the holy grail of so-called ‘triple play’ services (broadband and … Continue reading →
• The Hermes Project: TiVo – a target for Google or Microsoft?
  With the tech giants all working on getting in to TV – in the case of Microsoft, their initial moves have been less than successful though to be fair – it would make sense for them to look at acquiring … Continue reading →
• SBS to launch HbbTV in the Netherlands | Broadband TV News
  Dutch private broadcaster SBS has announced it will start to offer HbbTV services from Q2 2012. Public broadcaster NPO and RTL will follow suit. via SBS to launch HbbTV in the Netherlands | Broadband TV News.
• Swisscom to wholesale IPTV platform in Germany » Digital TV Europe
  Swisscom is planning to offer its IPTV service in neighbouring Germany on a wholesale basis. via Swisscom to wholesale IPTV platform in Germany » Digital TV Europe.
• Diller’s IAC/InterActiveCorp mulls Vimeo sale » Digital TV Europe
  Barry Diller’s IAC/InterActiveCorp is reportedly eyeing a sale of its online video service Vimeo. The company, which operates a number of content businesses including Electus and CollegeHumor as well as Ask.com and Match.com, is looking to raise US$50 million (€38 … Continue reading →
• TalkTalk: YouView launch on track | Broadband TV News
  TalkTalk CEO Dido Harding says the ISP has begun end-to-end consumer acceptance testing of its YouView product as the precursor to a full consumer trial. via TalkTalk: YouView launch on track | Broadband TV News.
• Europe angered by mobile spectrum proposal | Broadband TV News
  European delegates at the WRC-12 conference in Geneva have expressed their dismay at proposals by Arab and African regional administrations to take broadcast spectrum in the 700 MHz band and allocate it to mobile services.An agreement reached the WRC-07 conference … Continue reading →
• Conax inks Russian deal | Broadband TV News
  Conax has strengthened its cooperation with Moscow-based National Cable Networks (NCN) by agreeing to provide OnLime.net with a comprehensive solution for securing video rental. via Conax inks Russian deal | Broadband TV News.
• Hungarian digital TV market grows | Broadband TV News
  Hungary ended 2011 with a total of 1,657,977 digital TV subscribers, according to data published by the regulator NMHH. via Hungarian digital TV market grows | Broadband TV News.
• Tensions rise between competition authority and Canal+ | Broadband TV News
  The French competition authority (l’Autorité de la concurrence) has written to Canal+ to express its reservations over the decision to drop premium movie channel TPS Star. via Tensions rise between competition authority and Canal+ | Broadband TV News.
• TalkTalk UK Continues Decline as Broadband Subscribers Shrink to 4.08 Million − ISPreview UK News
  Internet and phone provider TalkTalk ( AOL UK ) has today released its latest results to 31st December 2011 (Q4). Sadly the data shows that the ISP suffered another sharp decline in broadband subscribers (-43,000) to reach a new total … Continue reading →
• Apple ‘iTV’ prototypes already in testing at Bell and Rogers in Canada? | The Verge
  Now that CES is over, it’s time for Apple iTV rumors to spin up again in earnest. The latest comes from Canadian paper The Globe and Mail, which cites anonymous sources who say that “Rogers and Bell already have the … Continue reading →
• Apple HDTV rumored to cost $1,499 | Ubergizmo
  Over the past few months we’ve heard a lot of rumors about Apple’s supposedly upcoming HDTV. While we’re not certain if such a device is on the way, close to completion or even nothing more than a myth, but Best … Continue reading →
• Netflix begins broadcasting first original series | News | TechRadar
  Netflix has officially made its first foray into original programming with its first series Lilyhammer now available for US streaming customers. via Netflix begins broadcasting first original series | News | TechRadar.

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News February 8, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• Major Polish cable deal on horizon | Broadband TV News
  Consolidation in Poland’s cable market is set to gather pace, with Multimedia Polska, its third largest operator, expected to be put up for sale. via Major Polish cable deal on horizon | Broadband TV News.
• More than 300,000 Australian households now accessing IPTV
  A new study released today by Telsyte confirms the rise of subscription TV over broadband with more than 300,000 Australian homes now accessing an IPTV service. This equates to around one in ten subscription TV services currently delivered over broadband. … Continue reading →
• As Brightcove Prepares To Go Public, Here’s What To Keep An Eye On | Dan Rayburn – StreamingMediaBlog.com
  Yesterday, Brightcove filed an amended S-1 as the company prepares to have their IPO in the coming months. The company is looking to raise between $50-$60M from their offering and estimates shares will be priced between $10-$12. After IPO expenses … Continue reading →
• Will Netflix Kill Ratings For Pay Cable? | paidContent
  The launch of Netflix’s first original series positions the company right where it wants to be – competing against pay cable companies like HBO, Showtime and Starz. But whether Lilyhammer becomes a hit for Netflix (NSDQ: NFLX) or falls flat, … Continue reading →
• M6 questions future of pay-DTT | Broadband TV News
  Pay television over digital terrestrial looks like being in serious trouble. Nicolas de Tavernost, CEO of M6, is sounding the alarm bell. via M6 questions future of pay-DTT | Broadband TV News.
• European OTT rush lacks direction
  Europe was quick off the mark with online Free To Air catch up services, but the rush to OTT in the pay TV industry is only just getting underway. It is set to take off now though, with 83 million … Continue reading →
• Only 8.5% Of Internet Usage Comes Via Mobile | paidContent
  When you read the headlines of how ubiquitous smartphones are becoming, and how in some countries the mobile device is overtaking the PC in terms of internet access, you would think that mobile internet usage would directly follow from these … Continue reading →
• Bundesliga TV bid war? | Advanced Television
  Deutsche Telekom will bid on its own for exclusive satellite and cable rights to show Germany’s Bundesliga football matches live, according to Der Spiegel, opening a possible bidding war with Sky Deutschland. via Bundesliga TV bid war? | Advanced Television.
• IP TV Times: Pub trouble for FAPL
  The reporting of the recent High Court judgement by Lord Justice Kitchen in FAPL v QC Leisure suggests that  the outcome was a partial victory for both sides. It might be that I should have gone to SpecSavers but from … Continue reading →
• Sky in talks on ‘triple play’ – The Irish Times – Sat, Feb 04, 2012
  SATELLITE broadcaster Sky is in talks with local telecoms operators about providing telephone and broadband services to its 675,000 subscribers in the Republic. via Sky in talks on ‘triple play’ – The Irish Times – Sat, Feb 04, 2012.
• Light Reading Europe – EuroBlog – Unsettling Times at NSN
  Following Reuters’ report late last week that Nokia Siemens Networks is looking to replace CEO Rajeev Suri, parent company Nokia Corp. (NYSE: NOK), as well as NSN, moved swiftly to deny the report. (See Euronews: NSN Denies ‘New CEO’ Report.) … Continue reading →
• Virgin cable now available to 10m homes | Techwatch: Tech News
  Virgin Media has announced that its fibre network now reaches 10 million households in the UK. via Virgin cable now available to 10m homes | Techwatch: Tech News.
• Lagardere ponders Czech deal failure | Broadband TV News
  Lagardere has spoken publicly about its failure to buy the long-established Czech music channel Ocko. via Lagardere ponders Czech deal failure | Broadband TV News.
• Polish market set to grow | Broadband TV News
  Poland’s telecom market is likely to grow by up to 10% in the next one to two years, according to Magdalena Gaj, the new president of the Office of Electronic Communication (UKE). via Polish market set to grow | Broadband … Continue reading →
• Ono extends TiVo, secures funding | Broadband TV News
  The leading Spanish cable operator Ono has extended its TiVO product to Barcelona, working in conjunction with Fábrica Moritz, based in the city. via Ono extends TiVo, secures funding | Broadband TV News.

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News February 7, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• informitv – Sky plots new internet television strategy
  Sky is planning to launch an online service to allow customers, including those who do not currently subscribe to its pay-television platform, to watch some of its most popular programmes, including movies, over any broadband connection. Most observers have assumed … Continue reading →
• IP TV Times: The Price Of A Telly
  Between them, Sony, Sharp and Panasonic lost $16.9 billion dollars last year. The business of producing TVs isn’t what it was.. via IP TV Times: The Price Of A Telly.
• informitv – 4K resolution displays bring really high definition
  After high-definition, the next step in television displays will be 4K resolution. Some manufacturers are already showing screens around four times the resolution of high definition, with around four thousand pixels across, generally referred to as 4K. Some might suggest … Continue reading →
• The Hermes Project: Netflix shares slide on Sky competition news
  Sky’s announcement that they are to launch an online video on demand (VoD) service focused to consumers as a whole – i.e. not just their own subscribers – has had a negative effect on the share price of Netflix, who … Continue reading →
• The Hermes Project: Internet traffic to more than quadruple by 2014
  The rise and rise of online video has been shown in forecasts by Internet infrastructure colossus Cisco, who predict that total Internet traffic will more than quadruple by 2014. via The Hermes Project: Internet traffic to more than quadruple by … Continue reading →
• The Hermes Project: Motorola Mobility profits hit by Google deal costs
  Motorola Mobility have posted a dampened set of financial results as costs associated with Google’s proposed USD$12.5bn purchase of the handset division of Motorola affected their financial performance. via The Hermes Project: Motorola Mobility profits hit by Google deal costs.
• The Hermes Project: How Comcast overhauled their engineer visit experience
  An interesting article has summarised how US cable giant Comcast managed to halve (in less than a year) their infamous four hour window when engineers would arrive at customer premises to install or undertake maintenance of their cable services, with … Continue reading →
• Google TV 3.2 update enhances HLS video streaming support, Plex update takes advantage – Engadget
  The Google TV update that rolled out to Sony units earlier this week (no word on the Revue, yet) brought tweaks to Chrome and support for Blu-ray 3D playback on the player, but that’s not all. via Google TV 3.2 … Continue reading →
• Survey says: Hollywood could make more money without windows — Online Video News
  Surveys conducted and sponsored by research firm BTIG suggest that movie viewers might actually spend more money on films, if they were available online or on cable video-on-demand services at the same time as they are available in theaters. The … Continue reading →
• Survey: Collapsing Windows Won’t Harm Box Office – 2012-02-03 19:25:48 | Multichannel News
  BTIG Research media analyst Rich Greenfield’s recent push to convince content providers and distributors to reduce on demand windows for movies to zero got a lift Friday, after the majority of the more than 1,300 respondents to his recent survey … Continue reading →
• What is the mystery “entertainment device” Google is testing? — Tech News and Analysis
  Google is asking the Federal Communications Commission for permission to test a mysterious Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled “entertainment device,” in employees homes in four U.S. cities. So inquiring minds want to know, what exactly is it? And why is Google filing … Continue reading →
• DTG :: News :: EBU to offer white label HbbTV apps
  The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) will be offering its members generic applications to deploy Hybrid Broadcast Broadband TV (HbbTV) during the Olympics and the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC). via DTG :: News :: EBU to offer white label HbbTV apps.
• Panasonic confirms massive losses | Advanced Television
  Panasonic is headed for a $10.24 billion loss this year (in the 12 months to March 31st) and is engaging on a significant restructuring of its giant electronics businesses. via Panasonic confirms massive losses | Advanced Television.
• Huffington online TV | Advanced Television
  The Huffington Post is making its first move into TV, with a live online video channel described as a “never-ending talkshow”. Arianna Huffington announced that the HuffPost Streaming Network would launch in the summer and feature 12 hours of original … Continue reading →

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News February 6, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• EBU to offer free HbbTV platform for Olympics » Digital TV Europe
  The EBU is offering its members a platform to deploy HbbTV services during this year’s Olympic Games and Eurovision Song Contest. via EBU to offer free HbbTV platform for Olympics » Digital TV Europe.
• Cyfra+ debuts on Apple devices | Broadband TV News
  The Polish DTH platform Cyfra+’s internet service Cyfra+ Online can now be received on iPads, iPhones and iPod Touch. via Cyfra+ debuts on Apple devices | Broadband TV News.
• Netflix under the Microscope | Broadband TV News
  With deals secure with six Hollywood majors why would any company want to take on Sky? But new delivery mechanisms, not least smart TVs and connected games consoles, are giving new entrants such as Netflix a new platform. via Netflix … Continue reading →
• UPC adds catch-up from VRT and BBC | Broadband TV News
  UPC Nederland is adding catch-up TV services from Belgian Dutch language public broadcaster VRT and from BBC Entertainment. via UPC adds catch-up from VRT and BBC | Broadband TV News.
• BT Vision keeps momentum | Broadband TV News
  BT Vision maintained its relative momentum in the final quarter of 2011 with another 39,000 homes added. via BT Vision keeps momentum | Broadband TV News.
• BT Vision throws Microsoft Mediaroom under a bus for Linux • The Register
  UK hybrid TV service BT Vision plans to be the first customer to discard Microsoft’s Mediaroom software, almost imminently, after at least a year-long effort to put in completely new software building blocks to rejuvenate the service. via BT Vision … Continue reading →
• Apple iTV set unlikely to happen in 2012 according to industry sources | iMore
  According to a report by randomly accurate tech news site Digitimes, it appears highly unlikely that Apple will be releasing its rumored integrated Apple TV set in the second quarter of 2012. Industry sources claim that Sharp is not in … Continue reading →
• Clover’s Week: Sky plans to give Netflix a run for its money | Broadband TV News
  As if Sky would let Netflix and Lovefilm have the market to itself. Julian Clover assesses the market position. via Clover’s Week: Sky plans to give Netflix a run for its money | Broadband TV News.
• Astra claims TV channel leadership | Broadband TV News
  SES has announced that it is confirming its global satellite leadership in TV channel carriage and HD transmission. By year-end 2011, SES broadcast over 5,200 TV channels, including over 1,200 HD channels. via Astra claims TV channel leadership | Broadband … Continue reading →
• Russia releases DVB-T2 receiver specification
  The Russian Television and Radio Broadcasting Network has releasaed minimum technical requirements for DVB-T/T2 set-top boxes, TVs and CAM modules. via Russia releases DVB-T2 receiver specification.
• BT says 300Mbps FTTP a year away | Techwatch: Tech News
  FTTP on-demand to roll out in FTTC enabled areas come the spring of 2013 via BT says 300Mbps FTTP a year away | Techwatch: Tech News.
• Austar seeks Foxtel deal delay | Advanced Television
  Australian regional pay-TV provider Austar is to seek court approval to postpone its Shareholder Meetings relating to the proposed acquisition of Austar by Foxtel to the end of March 2012. This will allow time for the Australian Competition and Consumer … Continue reading →
• Light Reading Europe – EuroBlog – Light at the End of the Pipe
  The problem with investing in large, capital-intensive networks has always been the return on investment (ROI) model. Often there wasn’t one that looked any good. And when it did look good on paper, it often turned out to be a … Continue reading →
• Boxee CEO: Someone Will Offer Subscription Internet TV in 2012 – It’s Just Not Going to be Boxee (or Apple, or Microsoft, or Google…) | DSLReports.com, ISP Information
  We’ve watched for years as companies from Apple to Google have promised to revolutionize TV only to fall flat on their face. More accurately, they run face first into a cable and broadcast industry that does everything in their power … Continue reading →
• Google TV goes Android 3.2, next up Ice Cream Sandwich — Online Video News
  Google rolled out a significant update to its Google TV platform this week, which started to reach Sony’s Google TV devices a few days ago. The update brings Google TV to Android Honeycomb 3.2, which makes this the last big … Continue reading →
• Zeebox, Sky and Partners Team up to Socialise Got To Dance
  Want to watch Got To Dance in a whole new way? Power up Zeebox on your iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch or on the web for the next six weeks every Sunday night at 6pm and you’ll see that Got To … Continue reading →
• TVTechnology: EBU Pushes Hybrid Broadcast/Broadband TV
  The European Broadcasting Union is offering members generic applications to deploy hybrid broadcast/broadband TV, or HbbTV, during the London Olympics and the Eurovision Song Contest, when audiences peak. via TVTechnology: EBU Pushes Hybrid Broadcast/Broadband TV.
• Portugal ends 2011 with 2.9 million pay TV subscribers
  According to Portugal’s Autoridade Nacional de Comunicações (ANACOM), there were 2.9 million subscribers to subscription TV as at the end of 4th Quarter 2011 (4Q2011), 69 thousand more than in the previous quarter and 202 thousand more than in the … Continue reading →
• Connected TV Marketing Association Expands Rapidly Into Emerging Markets And Appoints New Board Members For Central and Eastern Europe
  As of January 4th 2011, the Connected TV Marketing Association (CTVMA) activities across Central Eastern Europe, Russia, CIS and Turkey will get an immediate boost with formulation of CEE CTVMA Board and appointment of its first regional Executive Board Members. … Continue reading →
• Infographic: YouTube Killed TV
  Is the golden age of TV already long gone? Today all major TV services stream their content online and viewers have more power to choose from than ever. Acorrding to the creators of this infographic from Freemake.com, the death warrant … Continue reading →
• Research: 2012 is tipping point for multi-screen content consumption – FierceIPTV
  Multi-screen content consumption is hitting the mainstream and CE manufacturers are fully on board, according to new research that forecasts the number of IP-enabled consumer electronics devices shipped will approach 2.5 billion this year and rise to 3.5 billion in … Continue reading →
• 3.5bn IP-enabled CE devices shipped by 2015 | Advanced Television
  According to a report by IMS Research, shipments of residential data modems and gateways will reach 135 million in 2012, and shipments of IP-enabled consumer electronics devices will approach 2.5 billion, rising to 3.5 billion in 2015. via 3.5bn IP-enabled … Continue reading →
• SecondScreen Networks and Super Bowl Synchronicity – Water Cooler Live Events Largest Buys in History of Social TV
  SecondScreen Networks, will make its Super Bowl debut this year with TV ads for the Big Game from GoDaddy, synched with mobile apps from publishers PrePlay, and TapCast. And this Super Bowl buy will be the first in a series … Continue reading →
• Netflix Helps Capped Users With More Efficient Streams – New EyeIO Promises 720p Video at 1.8 Mbps | DSLReports.com, ISP Information
  Netflix several times last year took shots at metered billing, calling the shift anti-competitive, unnecessary, and an effort to try and slow or crush Internet video services that could one day pose a threat to traditional television revenues. via Netflix … Continue reading →

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News February 4, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• The Feldman File: eyeIO: New compression technology company signs up Netflix as its first customer
  It’s not unusual for developers to claim that they’ve improved the efficiency of video compression algorithms, but they usually result in one of two outcomes: The changes result in a new compression scheme that’s not accepted as a standard, or … Continue reading →
• Apple iTV ‘to land 2012 and to revolutionise market’ | News | TechRadar
  Apple has tapped up a number of component manufacturers and is all set to release its version of a connected TV by the end of 2012, according to US analyst Gene Munster. via Apple iTV ‘to land 2012 and to … Continue reading →
• Sony loses billions, blames TVs | News | TechRadar
  Sony has published the results for the third quarter of its 2011 fiscal year, detailing significant losses. via Sony loses billions, blames TVs | News | TechRadar.
• BSkyB facing growing pressure, says Fitch » Digital TV Europe
  UK pay TV operator BSkyB is likely to face growing pressure from internet pay TV services over the next few years, according to ratings agency Fitch. via BSkyB facing growing pressure, says Fitch » Digital TV Europe.
• Piracy forces Canal+ Maghreb to stop | Broadband TV News
  Canal+ Maghreb has stopped broadcasting on the Arabsat satellite claiming piracy as the reason. via Piracy forces Canal+ Maghreb to stop | Broadband TV News.
• RTL, Virgin join ad-group Thinkbox | Advanced Television
  Thinkbox, the marketing body for commercial TV in the UK, has gained two new high-profile members. European entertainment network the RTL Group the leading, and quad-play operator Virgin Media have joined the organisation as Associate Members. via RTL, Virgin join … Continue reading →
• UPC fined over Aster deal | Broadband TV News
  Poland’s leading cable operator UPC Polska has been fined by the competition authority UOKiK for providing false information during its acquisition of Aster. via UPC fined over Aster deal | Broadband TV News.
• Sky D finally reaches 3 million mark | Broadband TV News
  The German premium broadcaster Sky Deutschland surpassed 3 million customers on December 31, 2011 and has secured additional financing of €300 million for continued growth and product innovation. via Sky D finally reaches 3 million mark | Broadband TV News.
• UPC Romania looks East | Broadband TV News
  UPC Romania has added a new package known as Bollywood to its offer. via UPC Romania looks East | Broadband TV News.
• TeliaSonera passes TV milestone | Broadband TV News
  Over half a million subscribers in Sweden now take TeliaSonera’s TV offer, according to new data from the telco. via TeliaSonera passes TV milestone | Broadband TV News.
• Kanouff departs SeaChange | Broadband TV News
  SeaChange international President Yvette Kanouff is leaving the video technology company after 14 years. via Kanouff departs SeaChange | Broadband TV News.

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News February 3, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• TVs need to be dumber and the ‘EPG needs reinventing’ | News | TechRadar
  Former iPlayer and YouView head Anthony Rose reckons that the EPG is ready for reinvention and that social recommendations will pave the way for finding content to watch on your TV. via TVs need to be dumber and the ‘EPG … Continue reading →
• YouTube & its content discovery paradox — Online Video News
  For years, YouTube has worked to shake the perception that it is all about amateurish user-generated content. It’s hardly just the home of dogs on skateboards and stupid human tricks anymore, as the amount of professional and semi-professional content being … Continue reading →
• SeaChange executive shuffle continues as Kanouff leaves presidency – FierceIPTV
  SeaChange International (Nasdaq: SEAC), which earlier this week announced job cuts as part of a $5 million cost-reduction plan, today announced its president, longtime SeaChange exec Yvette Kanouff, was leaving the company. SeaChange said it had no plans to replace … Continue reading →
• Why, oh why, did you recommend that? « TV Everywhere
  With literally thousands of movies and TV shows available on demand through various providers, including pay TV and OTT services, it is often difficult to figure out what to watch.  It is like having thousands of channels and flicking through … Continue reading →
• ZDF deploys LiveU
  LiveU has announced that ZDF’s central news operation has successfully deployed the company’s LU60 cellular uplinking technology for a range of broadcast news applications. via ZDF deploys LiveU.
• Technicolor Sells 10M DTAs To Comcast, Other Operators – 2012-02-01 15:56:43 | Multichannel News
  Technicolor announced that it sold 10 million digital transport adapters — low-cost, one-way devices designed to deliver digital cable TV to analog television sets — to North American cable operators, including Comcast. via Technicolor Sells 10M DTAs To Comcast, Other … Continue reading →
• Dolby Labs slips back | Advanced Television
  San Francisco-based film and TV noise-reduction specialists Dolby Labs has reported a decline in profit for Q1, as revenues decreased and operating expenses rose. via Dolby Labs slips back | Advanced Television.
• VOOM progresses against EchoStar | Advanced Television
  Some readers might remember VOOM, an all-HDTV broadcasting system that was something of a pioneer in backing high-definition TV.  It launched initially with 21 channels in 2003 on its own satellite (Rainbow-1). VOOM was backed by Charles ‘Chuck’ Dolan, but … Continue reading →
• DTG :: News :: Humax adds Teletext Holidays app
  Teletext Holidays has agreed a new partnership with Humax, to offer a holiday search app on all new Humax Freeview HD boxes via DTG :: News :: Humax adds Teletext Holidays app.
• Sony to ditch active shutter 3D TVs? | News | TechRadar
  Sony is looking to make massive changes in its loss-making TV sector by introducing passive FPR (Film Patterned Retarder) panels to its television range. via Sony to ditch active shutter 3D TVs? | News | TechRadar.
• Cable Congress 2012 – Brussels – The Future of Cable TV
  If you have attended Cable Congress in the past, then you know what to expect: 3 days of strategic and innovative presentations, panel sessions and interactive debate, some of the most notable thought-leaders in the industry sharing their experiences, opinions, … Continue reading →
• France 24 launching new internet TV platform » Digital TV Europe
  France 24 is launching a new connected TV platform giving access to its three channels as well as on-demand content. via France 24 launching new internet TV platform » Digital TV Europe.
• EyeIO: Netflix’s secret weapon against bandwidth caps? — Online Video News
  Palo Alto-based video encoding start-up EyeIO left stealth mode Wednesday with the announcement that it has licensed its technology to one of the biggest players in the online video space. Netflix is using eyeIO’s encoding technology to cut down on … Continue reading →
• ATVOD rules adult site must block access by children | Broadband TV News
  The Authority for Television On Demand (ATVOD) has said online video on demand service Bootybox.tv was in breach of statutory rules requiring video on demand providers to ensure that under 18s cannot normally access hardcore pornographic content. via ATVOD rules … Continue reading →
• KAON Android-based SMART TV Certified with Adobe Flash 10.3
  KAONMEDIA CO., LTD (KOSDAQ: 078890), a leading provider of digital set top-boxes with cutting-edge technology around the world, is very proud of showcasing its new set top box based on Android 2.3 Gingerbread with Adobe Flash 10.3 certified on Trident … Continue reading →
• SeaChange to save annual $5 million | Broadband TV News
  Job losses and a streamlining of operations are part of a $5 million annualised saving plan announced by SeaChange International. via SeaChange to save annual $5 million | Broadband TV News.
• Broadcom Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2011 Results
  Broadcom Corporation (NASDAQ: BRCM), a global innovation leader in semiconductor solutions for wired and wireless communications, today reported unaudited financial results for its fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2011. via Broadcom Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2011 … Continue reading →
• AirTies to power DigiturkWebTV | Broadband TV News
  Turkish ex-pats wanting to keep in touch with home will be able to do so through a new internet-delivered service from Digiturk. via AirTies to power DigiturkWebTV | Broadband TV News.
• Sony appoints new boss | Advanced Television
  As expected, Sony Corp has appointed Kazuo Hirai as its next president and CEO. Current Executive Chairman Sir Howard Stringer stays in post until June when he will move upstairs to become Chairman of Sony’s board. via Sony appoints new … Continue reading →
• Universal Electronics Enhances Interactive STB Experience with New Remote/Keyboard Hybrid
  Universal Electronics, a global leader in wireless control technology, today announced the new Fusion remote control platform that aims to make the new generation of media viewing and interaction with interactive set-top boxes (STBs) a breeze. Fusion is a modeless … Continue reading →
• NSN to cut 4,100 jobs in Germany and Finland » telecoms.com – telecoms industry news, analysis and opinion
  Mobile infrastructure vendor Nokia Siemens Networks (NSN)  confirmed Wednesday that it is cutting 4,100 jobs in Germany and Finland. The move is part of the company’s plans to reduce its headcount by 17,000 – almost a quarter of its 74,000 global … Continue reading →
• Sony’s CEO Sir Howard Stringer steps down | News | PC Pro
  Sony’s CEO has stepped down, naming a successor from the entertainment side of the business. via Sony’s CEO Sir Howard Stringer steps down | News | PC Pro.

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News February 2, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• More UltraViolet on Smaller Releases, Please | Home Media Magazine
  My first experience with UltraViolet came with the release of Sony Pictures Home Entertainment’s Drive — my personal pick for movie of the year, Oscars be darned. via More UltraViolet on Smaller Releases, Please | Home Media Magazine.
• IP TV Times: The Rights Battlefield
  It looks like the UK is going to become a rights battlefield as more and more player pile into the paid for online video market. via IP TV Times: The Rights Battlefield.
• The Sky is Rising: report shows that entertainment industry is thriving; anti-piracy laws are about profit-maximization, nor survival – Boing Boing
  The Sky is Rising: report shows that entertainment industry is thriving; anti-piracy laws are about profit-maximization, nor survival via The Sky is Rising: report shows that entertainment industry is thriving; anti-piracy laws are about profit-maximization, nor survival – Boing Boing.
• The state of browser gaming – HTML5 vs. Flash [Infographic]
  We’ve always had browser based games and they were typically done with Flash from Adobe; and also for the most part pretty simple type games but with the advent of Facebook, social media and companies such as Zynga browser based … Continue reading →
• Good DRM Makes Bad Neighbors: This Is The Content Protection Tipping Point | TechCrunch
  For people who have been doing just one thing for a long, long time, it’s amazing how many content distributors get things so catastrophically wrong. These last few weeks brought us quite a few unique situations, including the launch of … Continue reading →
• Report: 13% of Subscribers Canceling or Downsizing Pay-TV Service | Home Media Magazine
  More than 13% of pay-TV subscribers will cancel or downsize their monthly bills in favor of lower-cost video entertainment sources during the next three months, according to a new report. via Report: 13% of Subscribers Canceling or Downsizing Pay-TV Service … Continue reading →
• EU opens antitrust probe into Samsung | Intellectual Property | ZDNet UK
  The European Commission is investigating Samsung over patent licensing deals relating to European mobile standards. via EU opens antitrust probe into Samsung | Intellectual Property | ZDNet UK.
• SeaChange Trims Workforce In Q4 | Multichannel News
  SeaChange International cut an unspecified number of jobs in its fiscal fourth quarter ended Jan. 31, which along with other cost-saving measures will save more than $5 million per year, the company announced Tuesday. via SeaChange Trims Workforce In Q4 … Continue reading →
• Boxee officially pulls the plug on PC client — Online Video News
  Want to run Boxee on your PC or Mac? Then hurry up; Boxee is removing all copies of its PC-based app from its servers by the end of the day Tuesday to fully concentrate on the Boxee Box. via Boxee … Continue reading →
• Twitter should be silent for Frozen Planet, says BBC – Telegraph
  John Tate, the BBC’s director of policy and strategy, has said that social media and interactivity should not distract viewers. via Twitter should be silent for Frozen Planet, says BBC – Telegraph.
• MNOs held responsible for mobile video quality | Advanced Television
  A broad survey of mobile phone users conducted for Mobixell Networks by On Device Research, indicates that 74 per cent hold operators most responsible for their video stalling, buffering or taking too long to start when streaming over their mobile … Continue reading →
• The Hermes Project: Sky announces fibre plans
  In another announcement alongside the company’s financial results this morning Sky have revealed their hand – having previously been very tentative – in terms of their offering of faster broadband services over the Openreach (largely) FTTC network which is currently … Continue reading →
• Miramax inks on demand deal with BT » Digital TV Europe
  US movie producer and distributor Miramax has inked a content deal with BT Vision, the IPTV service operated by UK telco BT. via Miramax inks on demand deal with BT » Digital TV Europe.
• BeeSmart embraces iPhones | Advanced Television
  BeeSmart, the interactive TV solution provider for service operators and AltWolf, a software development company, are proud to announce a BeeSmart iPhone application. This novelty represents easier access to services for end-users, which are now available from iPhone devices and … Continue reading →
• New Hybrid TV Study from iDate (OTT Report)
  Hybrid TV is now a reality, and gaining momentum. The appetite for OTT video content, reinforced by the development of connected TV solutions further exacerbates this phenomenon. This study from iDate aims to position the hybrid solutions in this new … Continue reading →
• Sky’s new broadband TV goes after Netflix | News | TechRadar
  Sky has announced a brand new internet TV service, aimed at selling its premium content to those people who do not currently want a satellite service but have a broadband connection and are happy to pay. via Sky’s new broadband … Continue reading →
• Sky takes on YouView | Advanced Television
  Sky has revealed plans to launch a new service allowing viewers to watch some of its most popular content over the Internet, the new service will be an additional choice for people who don’t currently subscribe to a pay-TV service … Continue reading →
• BSkyB over-delivers, as usual | Advanced Television
  BSkyB has a cheeky habit of under-promising and over-delivering on its results. It isn’t such a bad habit, but often catches out the analysts. Sky’s half-year numbers, revealed on January 31st, declared 6 per cent revenue growth to £3.4 billion, … Continue reading →
• Dutch digital TV penetration reaches 72.9% | Broadband TV News
  Digital television now reaches 72/9% of all Dutch homes, according to the latest Media Standard Survey from TNS NIPO. A total of 35% own a hard disc recorder. via Dutch digital TV penetration reaches 72.9% | Broadband TV News.
• Russia gears up for OTT services | Broadband TV News
  Interest in content delivery networks (CDNs) is growing amongst leading telcos in Russia. via Russia gears up for OTT services | Broadband TV News.
• CenturyLink Launches Microsoft Mediaroom Upgrade
  CenturyLink™ (NYSE: CTL) Prism™ TV, the alternative to cable and satellite, just got better with new features and functionality through Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) Mediaroom TV technology, the world’s most deployed Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) platform. Microsoft Mediaroom already enables Prism … Continue reading →
• Sky Will De-Couple Pay-TV Content From Satellite For OTT IPTV Era | paidContent
  BSkyB (NYSE: BSY) is acting to head off rising City concerns about the threat from over-the-top connected TV services, by announcing it will launch, by the summer, its own such service that does not require a satellite subscription. via Sky … Continue reading →
• Akamai Claims UK Average Broadband ISP Speeds Reached 5.1Mbps in Q3 2011 − ISPreview UK News
  The Akamai global Content Delivery Network (CDN) has today released its latest quarterly State of the Internet Q3 2011 report, which reveals that the average global internet download speed has climbed by 4.5% to 2.7Mbps (up from 2.6Mbps in Q2-2011). … Continue reading →
• Sky Go now on Android
  Another day of news about Sky, and today they’ve launched their Sky Go mobile app. via Sky Go now on Android.

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News February 1, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

Various people have complained about the lack of content on Netflix and even Lovefilm but the content available compares fairly well to what is on Sky Movies and for the really premium content you could end up buying a DVD copy of the movie you want for almost the same price as the VoD version.

To me, I could get a very decent TV and Premium package for £250 (for the HD Freeview+ box with iPlayer) and £10 per month (if I took Netflix and Lovefilm at the same time via my ‘Connected TV’). This is the future, componentised TV services where you find and add the components to your package.

We can now see BSkyB’s response to that through the combined announcement of allowing non-Sky Broadband customers access to Sky Active+ and the announcement of the launch of an OTT service targeted at those customers who do not have a Sky TV Satellite subscription. This is initially a defensive measure but very clearly it moves to being an offensive measure to acquire more customers than they can reach via dishes (because so many people either do not want or cannot have the dish), and also a setup for Sky TV not caring about the delivery mechanism for its TV and dropping the association with Satellites. All they would need to do now is allow access to this OTT service from a Freeview STB (Picnic anyone?).

This is the key issue that should be taken away from all of this, the important thing for customers is content, not the way it is received. Sky are taking action here to ensure that all the obstacles to people paying for their (Sky’s) content are removed.

As for Youview, when and if it launches, this very clearly puts them at the back of the pack with very little to distinguish them in this setup.

Componentised TV Services is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• Hollywood Isn’t Ruining DVD Rentals On Its Own: Netflix is Happy to Help
  It’s easy to slam Hollywood for not understanding how technology works, or for putting its legacy business models ahead of user experience. Especially when big media companies do things like restrict digital access to movies and then cry about piracy. … Continue reading →
• Sky records highest-ever first half profits | Broadband TV News
  BSkyB has announced the addition of 100,000 new subscribers in the final three months of 2011, setting the benchmark for the UK’s other pay-TV providers, expected to report in the next few weeks. via Sky records highest-ever first half profits … Continue reading →
• Sky launches new internet TV platform | Broadband TV News
  Sky has announced plans to launch a new internet-based TV platform that it is positioning as an additional choice for those who do not currently subscribe to a pay-TV service. via Sky launches new internet TV platform | Broadband TV … Continue reading →
• Sky’s ITV and BBC agreement is a huge deal | News | TechRadar
  Make no mistake about it, announcing the arrival of the BBC iPlayer and ITV content for its burgeoning Anytime+ service is a massive deal not only for the satellite giant but for UK television as a whole. via Sky’s ITV … Continue reading →
• Synacor Prices IPO, Expects To Raise Up To $94 Million – 2012-01-30 18:03:37 | Multichannel News
  Synacor, a provider of TV Everywhere services and Web portal software to cable and telecom operators, on Monday announced it expects its initial public offering to raise up to $94 million, based on expected pricing of $10 to $12 per … Continue reading →
• Networking technology used by 50%+ of broadband homes | Advanced Television
  According to research from Futuresource Consulting, of the 600 million global broadband homes at the end of 2011, 400 million deployed home networking technology. By 2015, expectations are for 650 million of the 700 million broadband homes to be interacting … Continue reading →
• PayWizard for ITV micropayments | Advanced Television
  UK commercial broadcaster ITV is to delay the introduction of micropayments for its on-demand ITV Player catch-up service, which it intended to launch in January 2012, and carry out closed trials based on MGT’s PayWizard solution. via PayWizard for ITV … Continue reading →
• Espial Demonstrates TV Everywhere Solutions at CSTB 2012
  Espial, a leader in on-demand TV software and solutions, today announced it will demonstrate its latest sophisticated and high-performance end-to-end solution at CSTB 2012 on Feb. 7-9 in Moscow. Visitors to the Espial booth will see a powerful TV Everywhere … Continue reading →
• ZON now in play? | Advanced Television
  Shareholders at Portuguese pay-TV provider ZON Multimedia have approved the lifting of voting rights beyond a current 10 per cent limit. The approval of the measure opens the way for shareholders to raise their stakes in the company, with mobile … Continue reading →
• Sky UK Expands Anytime Internet TV Service to all Broadband ISPs − ISPreview UK News
  BSkyB ( Sky Broadband ) has today expanded its popular Video-on-Demand (VoD) service, Sky Anytime+, by making it available to all UK based Sky+ HD homes with an internet connection and across all broadband ISPs (the service was previously exclusive … Continue reading →
• ITV Picks Its ‘Oyster Card’ For Online Programme Payments | paidContent
  Telegraph.co.uk reports the UK’s main commercial free-to-air TV broadcaster has delayed a programme under which it wants to charge online viewers for some content. But that’s not quite the case. via ITV Picks Its ‘Oyster Card’ For Online Programme Payments … Continue reading →
• Vodafone Germany eyes cable partnership » Digital TV Europe
  Vodafone Germany is eyeing a deal with a local cable operator as it looks to expand its business. via Vodafone Germany eyes cable partnership » Digital TV Europe.
• Access launches DLNA media-sharing software » Digital TV Europe
  TV technology provider Access has launched Access MediaPilot, a DLNA Certified software that it says enables consumers to share music, movies and photos on connected TVs, PCs, iPads, tablets and mobile phones without connecting cables or copying files. The app … Continue reading →
• Virgin Media contributes to Met fraud investigation | Broadband TV News
  Virgin Media agreed to fund police overtime as part of an investigation into £144 million set-top box fraud. via Virgin Media contributes to Met fraud investigation | Broadband TV News.
• Upgrade to Sky Anytime+ adds BBC iPlayer and ITV Player | Broadband TV News
  Catch-up content from the BBC and ITV will be made available in Sky homes during 2012. All five million homes with the Sky+ HD box will be able to connect their boxes to Sky Anytime+ through the internet, regardless of whether … Continue reading →
• Sky Adding Broadcaster-Branded VOD Services From BBC And ITV | paidContent
  The UK’s leading pay-TV provider BSkyB (NYSE: BSY) is taking a significant step to improve its PVR box’s new IP on-demand TV service by adding catch-up TV services from the BBC and ITV. via Sky Adding Broadcaster-Branded VOD Services From … Continue reading →
• Challenges ahead for BSkyB | Advanced Television
  BSkyB unveils its Q2 numbers on January 31st, and most observers see continued progress for the broadcaster, although with net TV subscriber additions being somewhat less than this same time last year. via Challenges ahead for BSkyB | Advanced Television.
• Motorola 2011 set-top shipments up 6 percent compared to 2010
  Motorola Mobility Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: MMI) today reported net revenues of $3.4 billion in the fourth quarter of 2011, comparable to the fourth quarter of 2010. The GAAP net loss in the fourth quarter of 2011 was $80 million, or … Continue reading →
• BBC – Media Centre – BBC enters new partnership to bring BBC iPlayer to Sky
  The BBC and Sky today announced a landmark partnership deal that will bring the BBC’s popular video-on-demand service BBC iPlayer to up to five million Sky homes in 2012. via BBC – Media Centre – BBC enters new partnership to … Continue reading →

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 31, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• Ten… smart TVs • reghardware
  Smart functionality has become the new must-have feature for TV. With hi-def and 3D pretty much taken for granted, it’s now ‘net connectivity, media streaming and IPTV which are driving sales. But with huge differences between proprietary network portals, both … Continue reading →
• Netflix Says More Viewers Streaming from Tablets than from PCs | ITProPortal.com
  Even though it has only been six months since Netflix first introduced its Android app, thus Google mobile OS platform users access to its streaming services, Netflix has announced the number of viewers who access its services from tablet devices has surpassed … Continue reading →
• informitv – ITV micropayment delays
  Commercial broadcaster ITV has yet to introduce its promised online micropayments system. It is understood that the company will use the Pay Wizard service from MGT to implement transactional programming on its ITV Player online service. Chief executive Adam Crozier … Continue reading →
• No porn for South Africa’s TopTV | Broadband TV News
  South Africa’s Independent Communications Authority (ICASA) has turned down Top TV’s application to launch three adult entertainment channels. via No porn for South Africa’s TopTV | Broadband TV News.
• ESPN: Mobile ‘first screen’ | Advanced Television
  Sports broadcaster ESPN, considered a pioneer in the mobile media space, now views mobile as the ‘first screen’, rather than the more commonly ascribed ‘third screen’. via ESPN: Mobile ‘first screen’ | Advanced Television.

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 30, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• Audible Magic can recognize anything you watch on TV | TUAW – The Unofficial Apple Weblog
  An interesting piece of software I’ve run across at Macworld | iWorld 2012 is Audible Magic, automated-content recognition software that relies on digital fingerprinting. The Audible Magic technology will identify a TV series based off the audio as it’s being … Continue reading →
• Liberty Global sees strong European growth | Advanced Television
  Michael Fries, chief executive of Liberty Global, has said that a smart pricing strategy and a presence in select European markets have helped the media company and broadband provider grow, despite Europe’s larger economic woes. via Liberty Global sees strong … Continue reading →
• CableLabs Intros Cert Program For DOCSIS-Provisioned Ethernet-On-Fiber – 2012-01-27 14:47:06 | Multichannel News
  Looking to arm MSOs for an expanded foray into business services, CableLabs has introduced an equipment qualification program for its DOCSIS provisioning of Ethernet on passive optical networks project. via CableLabs Intros Cert Program For DOCSIS-Provisioned Ethernet-On-Fiber – 2012-01-27 14:47:06 … Continue reading →
• Channel 4’s Project Shuffle to offer new catch-up platform » Digital TV Europe
  UK broadcaster Channel 4 is lining up a new channel to offer repeats of recently aired shows. via Channel 4’s Project Shuffle to offer new catch-up platform » Digital TV Europe.
• Samsung closes in on 20 million Smart TV app downloads » Digital TV Europe
  Samsung expects to pass 20 million apps downloaded on its Smart TV platform around the end of this month, according to the consumer electronics giant’s European content services director, Dan Saunders. via Samsung closes in on 20 million Smart TV … Continue reading →
• Netflix Sees Overseas Losses Doubling To $118 Million This Quarter | paidContent
  Netflix (NSDQ: NFLX) expects overseas losses to double in just three months, as it spends more and more on vital local video content and marketing. via Netflix Sees Overseas Losses Doubling To $118 Million This Quarter | paidContent.
• Administrators Seeking Buyers For IP Vision | paidContent
  The owner of UK internet TV service FetchTV, IP Vision, has gone in to administration after encountering financial difficulties. via Administrators Seeking Buyers For IP Vision | paidContent.
• Anga Cable reports 95% space booked | Broadband TV News
  The Anga Cable show has said that binding registrations have been received from 360 companies for a total of 95% of the exhibition space. via Anga Cable reports 95% space booked | Broadband TV News.
• Motorola set-top shipments increase | Broadband TV News
  Set-top box shipments in Motorola Mobility’s Home segment increased by 6% year-on-year, despite a 3% fall in the fourth quarter. via Motorola set-top shipments increase | Broadband TV News.
• Fashion TV launches on Samsung Smart TV | Broadband TV News
  Samsung has announced a partnership with Fashion TV that brings the channel’s programming onto Samsung Smart TV. via Fashion TV launches on Samsung Smart TV | Broadband TV News.
• Big triple play gains for Ziggo | Broadband TV News
  56.3% of Ziggo’s customer base is now buying broadband access from the operator, while 44.9% take telephony and 43.2% are All-in-1 bundle subscribers. via Big triple play gains for Ziggo | Broadband TV News.
• Apple iPad now has 58% market share | Techwatch: Tech News
  Android powers on with added steam from the Kindle and Nook via Apple iPad now has 58% market share | Techwatch: Tech News.
• Logitech officially out of Google TV game | News | TechRadar
  Logitech has announced that it has succeeded in shifting its entire stockpile of Logitech Revue set-top boxes, officially ending its involvement with the Google TV platform. via Logitech officially out of Google TV game | News | TechRadar.
• Cable is Eating DSL’s Lunch in Un-Upgraded Markets – Telco Investors Get What They Were Willing to Pay For | DSLReports.com, ISP Information
  Both AT&T and Verizon saw continued strong growth in wireless in this week’s earnings reports, but took a bit of a beating in terms of DSL subscriber counts in their un-upgraded markets and overall broadband growth. Verizon lost 103,000 DSL … Continue reading →
• Motorola Mobility’s Cable Sales Fall 11% In Q4 – 2012-01-26 22:47:03 | Multichannel News
  Motorola Mobility’s cable-focused Home unit posted sales of $897 million for the fourth quarter of 2011, down 11% from the year-earlier period, with set-top shipments declining 3%. via Motorola Mobility’s Cable Sales Fall 11% In Q4 – 2012-01-26 22:47:03 | … Continue reading →

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 28, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• Connected TV needs higher degree of regulation, says Ofcom chief » Digital TV Europe
  Connected TV services are “TV-like experiences” and should be subject to a higher degree of regulation than internet content access through a PC, according to Ed Richards, CEO of UK media regulator Ofcom. via Connected TV needs higher degree of … Continue reading →
• Intel Assembles a Braintrust, Patents to Go Up Against H.264
  It was supposed to have been the heart of a concept called NGV – a video codec that utilized the same principles used by H.264, but produce a tighter stream by almost half. It was touted as the final “Hail … Continue reading →
• Netflix Stock Jumps More Than 20%, Equity Analysts ‘Bullish’ Again | paidContent
  Netflix (NSDQ: NFLX) stock jumped over 20 percent, with a number of equity analysts bumping up the movie rental company’s price target following its better-than-expected fourth quarter earnings report. via Netflix Stock Jumps More Than 20%, Equity Analysts ‘Bullish’ Again … Continue reading →
• Intel To Spend $120M On Patents, Video Codec Software From RealNetworks | TechCrunch
  Intel is to buy “a significant number” of patents (approximately 190 patents and 170 patent applications) and video codec software from RealNetworks for a purchase price of $120 million. Under the terms of the deal, RealNetworks says it retains certain … Continue reading →
• Motorola rethinking set-top-boxes as home video gateways | The Verge
  Motorola’s currently rethinking its set-top-boxes, with the old DVR model being forced out in favor of home video gateways: hubs which are able to distribute cable content around your home to game consoles, tablets, and other IP connected devices. via … Continue reading →
• Netflix tops 800+ devices, tablets overtake PC viewing — Online Video News
  Netflix CEO Reed Hastings talked a lot of about connected and mobile devices during the company’s Q4 earnings call on Wednesday, emphasizing how important tablets, the Apple TV and connected TVs are to the company. He didn’t get into any … Continue reading →
• ALi Announces Advanced Security CAS SoC for Entry-level Cable Pay TV
  ALi Corporation (TPE:3041), a leading Set-Top Box (STB) system-on-chip (SoC) solution provider, today announced the availability of the new cable Pay-TV STB solution, M3281, will be demonstrated at the CSTB 2012, Moscow. The M3281 is ALi’s second generation advanced security … Continue reading →
• VISION 247 created | Advanced Television
  Not to be confused with the similarly-named IP Vision, which announced January 26th that it had appointed administrators, IPTV service provider Vision IPTV has merged with sister companies to form VISION247. via VISION 247 created | Advanced Television.
• Clover’s Week: Second guessing a second screen | Broadband TV News
  Viewer behaviour is understandably lagging behind the latest developments in TV technology, writes Julian Clover. via Clover’s Week: Second guessing a second screen | Broadband TV News.
• MRG IPTV vendor rankings | Advanced Television
  Multimedia Research Group has revealed its 2011 Market Leader Report is now tracking over 934 IPTV Operators globally, an increase from 913 and representing over 50 million IPTV subscribers worldwide. “Although the MLR only tracks pure-play IPTV deployments worldwide, it … Continue reading →
• Vision IPTV merges with sister companies to form VISION247 | Advanced Television
  Vision IPTV, Playout247, Soho Data Centre and Connexion Broadcast are now officially operating as one: VISION247. via Vision IPTV merges with sister companies to form VISION247 | Advanced Television.
• bradyvolpe.com | Advance DOCSIS 3.0 Troubleshooting | bradyvolpe.com
  If you missed the 2011 SCTE Cable-Tec Expo, I am making available my presentation and white paper on “Advanced Troubleshooting in a DOCSIS 3.0 Plant”. via bradyvolpe.com | Advance DOCSIS 3.0 Troubleshooting | bradyvolpe.com.
• Fetch TV in administration | Advanced Television
  Fetch TV, the vendor of hybrid STBs that included UK DTT, iPlayer, Sky Player and its own VoD service, has gone into administration. A statement on its site says IP Vision, the parent company, has appointed administrators. The company employs … Continue reading →
• Watching movies in UltraViolet – Business – The Boston Globe
  The Walmart clerk had no idea what I was talking about. She had DVDs and Blu-Rays aplenty, but what the heck was an UltraViolet movie? via Watching movies in UltraViolet – Business – The Boston Globe.
• Ericsson would consider buying Nokia Siemens assets – CFO
  Jan Frykhammar says company has responsibility to shareholders to identify assets that ‘can add value’ to company. Ericsson CFO Jan Frykhammar revealed to Total Telecom this week that the company would consider acquiring assets from rival Nokia Siemens Networks – … Continue reading →
• TVCatchup • reghardware
  The name is misleading, but this is still a useful app for watching live TV from multiple channels on your iOS devices. via TVCatchup • reghardware.
• Billions of net-ready boxes in homes by 2016 • reghardware
  Punters may not be turning to internet-connected smart TVs in their droves, but the near future looks set to be a bumper time for gadgets that bridge the gap between the net and ordinary HD TVs. via Billions of net-ready … Continue reading →
• Netflix UK “greatly exceeding expectations” | Advanced Television
  Netflix’s recent launch in the UK “greatly exceeded expectations”, the group said as it reported fourth-quarter profits that beat analyst estimates and boosted its shares by almost 16 per cent. via Netflix UK “greatly exceeding expectations” | Advanced Television.
• UK digital economy catapulted into the future | Advanced Television
  Government investment in technology and innovation will enable Britain’s world leading digital businesses to benefit from future advances in technology and help them bring new products to the marketplace, UK Business Secretary Vince Cable has announced. via UK digital economy … Continue reading →
• Tricolor TV sets the pace | Broadband TV News
  The leader Russian DTH platform Tricolor TV ended 2011 with 9.5 million subscribers, or 31% more than a year earlier. via Tricolor TV sets the pace | Broadband TV News.
• Fetch TV enters administration | Broadband TV News
  IP Vision, the company behind the Fetch TV receivers and movies on demand service, has entered administration with the possible loss of up  to 20 jobs. via Fetch TV enters administration | Broadband TV News.
• Saorsat to launch in February | Broadband TV News
  Saorsat, the free-to-air satellite companion to Ireland’s DTT service Saorview, is slated to launch this February or March. via Saorsat to launch in February | Broadband TV News.
• Red Bee engages zombies in FX companion app | Broadband TV News
  Red Bee Media is to use Civolution digital audio watermarking technology in a companion app developed for FX UK. via Red Bee engages zombies in FX companion app | Broadband TV News.
• Invest in content and go up the EPG | Broadband TV News
  Communications minister Ed Vaizey has told broadcasters the government is exploring ways to encourage investment in UK content through the electronic programme guide. Vaizey told the Oxford Media convention that such a plan could ensure a vibrant production sector. via … Continue reading →
• Cablecom to distribute all Swiss HD channels | Broadband TV News
  UPC Cablecom has said it will distribute all six HD channels from the country’s public broadcasters from February 29. via Cablecom to distribute all Swiss HD channels | Broadband TV News.
• German pubcasters seek HD cable carriage | Broadband TV News
  German public broadcasters ARD and ZDF are seeking cable carriage for their 10 new HD channels, which will launch on April 30, 2012. via German pubcasters seek HD cable carriage | Broadband TV News.
• ATIS Creates Solution to Securely Authenticate Devices and Subscribers Across IPTV Networks
  The Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions (ATIS) today released a solution to securely identify and authenticate computers, TVs and other devices for connection into IPTV networks to enable video and other multimedia content to flow freely to users wherever they … Continue reading →
• Netflix Describes The Future Of TV And It Sounds Awesome
  In Netflix’s earnings letter to shareholders it lays out an interesting vision for the future of TV via Netflix Describes The Future Of TV And It Sounds Awesome.

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 27, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• Connected TV needs higher degree of regulation, says Ofcom chief » Digital TV Europe
  Connected TV services are “TV-like experiences” and should be subject to a higher degree of regulation than internet content access through a PC, according to Ed Richards, CEO of UK media regulator Ofcom. via Connected TV needs higher degree of … Continue reading →
• Intel Assembles a Braintrust, Patents to Go Up Against H.264
  It was supposed to have been the heart of a concept called NGV – a video codec that utilized the same principles used by H.264, but produce a tighter stream by almost half. It was touted as the final “Hail … Continue reading →
• Netflix Stock Jumps More Than 20%, Equity Analysts ‘Bullish’ Again | paidContent
  Netflix (NSDQ: NFLX) stock jumped over 20 percent, with a number of equity analysts bumping up the movie rental company’s price target following its better-than-expected fourth quarter earnings report. via Netflix Stock Jumps More Than 20%, Equity Analysts ‘Bullish’ Again … Continue reading →
• Intel To Spend $120M On Patents, Video Codec Software From RealNetworks | TechCrunch
  Intel is to buy “a significant number” of patents (approximately 190 patents and 170 patent applications) and video codec software from RealNetworks for a purchase price of $120 million. Under the terms of the deal, RealNetworks says it retains certain … Continue reading →
• Motorola rethinking set-top-boxes as home video gateways | The Verge
  Motorola’s currently rethinking its set-top-boxes, with the old DVR model being forced out in favor of home video gateways: hubs which are able to distribute cable content around your home to game consoles, tablets, and other IP connected devices. via … Continue reading →
• Netflix tops 800+ devices, tablets overtake PC viewing — Online Video News
  Netflix CEO Reed Hastings talked a lot of about connected and mobile devices during the company’s Q4 earnings call on Wednesday, emphasizing how important tablets, the Apple TV and connected TVs are to the company. He didn’t get into any … Continue reading →
• ALi Announces Advanced Security CAS SoC for Entry-level Cable Pay TV
  ALi Corporation (TPE:3041), a leading Set-Top Box (STB) system-on-chip (SoC) solution provider, today announced the availability of the new cable Pay-TV STB solution, M3281, will be demonstrated at the CSTB 2012, Moscow. The M3281 is ALi’s second generation advanced security … Continue reading →
• VISION 247 created | Advanced Television
  Not to be confused with the similarly-named IP Vision, which announced January 26th that it had appointed administrators, IPTV service provider Vision IPTV has merged with sister companies to form VISION247. via VISION 247 created | Advanced Television.
• Clover’s Week: Second guessing a second screen | Broadband TV News
  Viewer behaviour is understandably lagging behind the latest developments in TV technology, writes Julian Clover. via Clover’s Week: Second guessing a second screen | Broadband TV News.
• MRG IPTV vendor rankings | Advanced Television
  Multimedia Research Group has revealed its 2011 Market Leader Report is now tracking over 934 IPTV Operators globally, an increase from 913 and representing over 50 million IPTV subscribers worldwide. “Although the MLR only tracks pure-play IPTV deployments worldwide, it … Continue reading →
• Vision IPTV merges with sister companies to form VISION247 | Advanced Television
  Vision IPTV, Playout247, Soho Data Centre and Connexion Broadcast are now officially operating as one: VISION247. via Vision IPTV merges with sister companies to form VISION247 | Advanced Television.
• bradyvolpe.com | Advance DOCSIS 3.0 Troubleshooting | bradyvolpe.com
  If you missed the 2011 SCTE Cable-Tec Expo, I am making available my presentation and white paper on “Advanced Troubleshooting in a DOCSIS 3.0 Plant”. via bradyvolpe.com | Advance DOCSIS 3.0 Troubleshooting | bradyvolpe.com.
• Fetch TV in administration | Advanced Television
  Fetch TV, the vendor of hybrid STBs that included UK DTT, iPlayer, Sky Player and its own VoD service, has gone into administration. A statement on its site says IP Vision, the parent company, has appointed administrators. The company employs … Continue reading →
• Watching movies in UltraViolet – Business – The Boston Globe
  The Walmart clerk had no idea what I was talking about. She had DVDs and Blu-Rays aplenty, but what the heck was an UltraViolet movie? via Watching movies in UltraViolet – Business – The Boston Globe.
• Ericsson would consider buying Nokia Siemens assets – CFO
  Jan Frykhammar says company has responsibility to shareholders to identify assets that ‘can add value’ to company. Ericsson CFO Jan Frykhammar revealed to Total Telecom this week that the company would consider acquiring assets from rival Nokia Siemens Networks – … Continue reading →
• TVCatchup • reghardware
  The name is misleading, but this is still a useful app for watching live TV from multiple channels on your iOS devices. via TVCatchup • reghardware.
• Billions of net-ready boxes in homes by 2016 • reghardware
  Punters may not be turning to internet-connected smart TVs in their droves, but the near future looks set to be a bumper time for gadgets that bridge the gap between the net and ordinary HD TVs. via Billions of net-ready … Continue reading →
• Netflix UK “greatly exceeding expectations” | Advanced Television
  Netflix’s recent launch in the UK “greatly exceeded expectations”, the group said as it reported fourth-quarter profits that beat analyst estimates and boosted its shares by almost 16 per cent. via Netflix UK “greatly exceeding expectations” | Advanced Television.
• UK digital economy catapulted into the future | Advanced Television
  Government investment in technology and innovation will enable Britain’s world leading digital businesses to benefit from future advances in technology and help them bring new products to the marketplace, UK Business Secretary Vince Cable has announced. via UK digital economy … Continue reading →
• Tricolor TV sets the pace | Broadband TV News
  The leader Russian DTH platform Tricolor TV ended 2011 with 9.5 million subscribers, or 31% more than a year earlier. via Tricolor TV sets the pace | Broadband TV News.
• Fetch TV enters administration | Broadband TV News
  IP Vision, the company behind the Fetch TV receivers and movies on demand service, has entered administration with the possible loss of up  to 20 jobs. via Fetch TV enters administration | Broadband TV News.
• Saorsat to launch in February | Broadband TV News
  Saorsat, the free-to-air satellite companion to Ireland’s DTT service Saorview, is slated to launch this February or March. via Saorsat to launch in February | Broadband TV News.
• Red Bee engages zombies in FX companion app | Broadband TV News
  Red Bee Media is to use Civolution digital audio watermarking technology in a companion app developed for FX UK. via Red Bee engages zombies in FX companion app | Broadband TV News.
• Invest in content and go up the EPG | Broadband TV News
  Communications minister Ed Vaizey has told broadcasters the government is exploring ways to encourage investment in UK content through the electronic programme guide. Vaizey told the Oxford Media convention that such a plan could ensure a vibrant production sector. via … Continue reading →
• Cablecom to distribute all Swiss HD channels | Broadband TV News
  UPC Cablecom has said it will distribute all six HD channels from the country’s public broadcasters from February 29. via Cablecom to distribute all Swiss HD channels | Broadband TV News.
• German pubcasters seek HD cable carriage | Broadband TV News
  German public broadcasters ARD and ZDF are seeking cable carriage for their 10 new HD channels, which will launch on April 30, 2012. via German pubcasters seek HD cable carriage | Broadband TV News.
• ATIS Creates Solution to Securely Authenticate Devices and Subscribers Across IPTV Networks
  The Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions (ATIS) today released a solution to securely identify and authenticate computers, TVs and other devices for connection into IPTV networks to enable video and other multimedia content to flow freely to users wherever they … Continue reading →
• Netflix Describes The Future Of TV And It Sounds Awesome
  In Netflix’s earnings letter to shareholders it lays out an interesting vision for the future of TV via Netflix Describes The Future Of TV And It Sounds Awesome.

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 27, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• Netflix vs Lovefilm • reghardware
  This month, at long last, US video streaming giant Netflix finally arrived on UK shores, with a £5.99 all-you-can-eat offering. It was swiftly matched by the local incumbent, Lovefilm. The Amazon-owned company pitched a streaming-only option at an introductory £4.99 … Continue reading →
• Cablevision trialing live TV app for Windows and Mac with select customers (photos) | The Verge
  Cablevision was one of the first providers that allowed Apple’s iPad to double as an additional TV screen for its programming. Now the company seems poised to bring similar functionality to a much wider audience: Windows and Mac users. A … Continue reading →
• 5 Essential Product Design Books That Aren’t About Product Design | PandoDaily
  “What are some good books about product management?” is a frequent question for designers and engineers, especially those who are first-time founders. While there are any number of volumes you can peruse about agile development, team building, roadmaps or whatever … Continue reading →
• Paradox CEO Smashes DRM | ITProPortal.com
  The CEO of Paradox Interactive – the developer behind the Magicka games, has hit out at DRM, saying that as well as costing developers and publishers money, it generates loses it for them too. via Paradox CEO Smashes DRM | … Continue reading →
• Netflix’s Hastings: ‘We’re Done Promoting Our DVD Service’ | paidContent
  It won’t happen as fast as you can say Qwikster, but Netflix (NSDQ: NFLX) plans to slowly edge its way out of the DVD rental business. via Netflix’s Hastings: ‘We’re Done Promoting Our DVD Service’ | paidContent.
• Netflix Rebounds in Q4, Recovers Most Of Its Lost Subs | paidContent
  Rebounding from the subscriber losses and investor dissonance that troubled it last fall, Netflix (NSDQ: NFLX) reported better than expected earnings of $41 million or $0.73 per share Wednesday, with revenue rising 43 percent to $876. via Netflix Rebounds in … Continue reading →
• Netflix streaming users now outnumber DVD subscribers 2:1 — Online Video News
  Netflix may be getting out of the DVD business sooner that previously predicted, if Wednesday’s fourth quarter financial results are any indicator. The company now has close to twice as many streaming subscribers as DVD subscribers in the U.S., and … Continue reading →
• Netflix Q4 results: 220k new streaming-only customers, beats earnings estimates (Update: no game rentals coming) — Engadget
  Netflix’s Q4 2011 earnings report is in, and the company indicates its streaming subscriber count is now 21.67 million. via Netflix Q4 results: 220k new streaming-only customers, beats earnings estimates (Update: no game rentals coming) — Engadget.
• Studios Still Don’t Get It: Paramount Charging $20 To Stream 10+ Year Old Movies | Dan Rayburn – StreamingMediaBlog.com
  For all talk from the studios about how much they are “embracing” digital, they really aren’t. Consumers are asking for more choices when it comes to being able to get first-run content in digital form, for multiple devices, yet the … Continue reading →
• Installed Base of Connected Devices to Reach 1.34 Billion in 2016
  In 2011, the global market for household consumer electronics (CE) continued its rapid shift toward “connected devices,” which are devices that have the ability to connect directly to the Internet or to a home network and can deliver IP-based video … Continue reading →
• FremantleMedia content for Netflix UK | Advanced Television
  FremantleMedia Enterprises has announced a digital licensing agreement with Netflix to bring a raft of classic comedy and drama titles to Netflix members across the UK and Ireland. via FremantleMedia content for Netflix UK | Advanced Television.
• What To Expect From Netflix Today | paidContent
  Netflix (NSDQ: NFLX) will report its Q4 ‘11 earnings later today, but whereas I’ve taken stands in past quarters about subscriber acquisition results, this time around I can only say your guess is as good as mine. Subsequent to last … Continue reading →
• Ultra-HDTV on WRC agenda | Advanced Television
  The World Radiocommunications Conference (WRC-12) has opened in Geneva, gathering 3,000 experts together from more than 150 nations to debate a wide range of treaty-level topics. It meets for the next three weeks until February 17th. Tarek Al Awadhi of … Continue reading →
• 500+ Customers, more than 20 Million Screens Protected |
  In 2006, Verimatrix celebrated surpassing its 1 millionth screen protected by our VCAS revenue security solutions, which was a significant milestone for our young, start-up company. via 500+ Customers, more than 20 Million Screens Protected |.
• Ofcom looks again at VOD regulation | Broadband TV News
  Ofcom has reopened the debate into the regulation of on demand video services with a new study commissioned from Ipsos MORI. via Ofcom looks again at VOD regulation | Broadband TV News.
• DTG :: News :: Report: Over 90% of TV is watched live
  Over 90% of the TV watched in the UK during 2011 was watched live as it was broadcast, according to the latest figures from the Broadcasters’ Audience Research Board (BARB). via DTG :: News :: Report: Over 90% of TV … Continue reading →
• DTG :: News :: Report: 64% of consumers would pay for films online
  Consumers are more aware of streaming services and are increasingly willing to pay for movies online then ever before, according to the latest KPMG Media & Entertainment Barometer. via DTG :: News :: Report: 64% of consumers would pay for … Continue reading →
• Sony Kills Off Internet TV With Google TV Platform – Seeking Alpha
  While not officially announced from Sony corporate, I have been able to confirm via a Sony Store and multiple calls to Sonys sales number that Sony SNE has stopped producing their Sony Internet TV with the built-in Google TV platform. … Continue reading →
• The Shift From Watching TV to Experiencing TV
  Over half of all devices at this year’s CES, the world’s largest consumer electronics trade show, were Internet connected devices. Nearly 60% of those were non-traditional computing devices such as TVs, car devices, refrigerators and washing machines. In fact 90% … Continue reading →
• Paramount Begins Selling UltraViolet Movies Directly | TechCrunch
  Just over a week ago I spoke with the head of DECE and UltraViolet about the service, its origins, and where it’s going. The conclusion seemed to be that there was great potential in the service as a value-add, if … Continue reading →
• 100 million hybrid STBs to ship in 2015 | Broadband TV News
  Hybrid set-top boxes are an increasingly important part of the worldwide set-top box market and In-Stat is predicting that over 100 million such devices will be shipped in 2015. via 100 million hybrid STBs to ship in 2015 | Broadband … Continue reading →
• BCi-Endurance help Zeebox develop an ingest solution – BCi – Europe’s leading VoD & IPTV Systems Integrators
  Zeebox has developed and launched an ambitious augmented TV service that delivers additional and relevant information about the programme being watched and provides connections to your friends via Social Networking sites. The experience is delivered via a smooth and intuitive … Continue reading →
• Red Bee Media Reinvents the Content Discovery Experience with Launch of RedDiscover™ | News | Red Bee Media
  RedDiscover™ designed to be the first end-to-end portfolio of content discovery solutions built specifically for media via Red Bee Media Reinvents the Content Discovery Experience with Launch of RedDiscover™ | News | Red Bee Media.
• Reluctant operators hit Ericsson | Broadband TV News
  Ericsson surprised the market with a poor fourth quarter showing, pulled down by losses in its joint venture projects. via Reluctant operators hit Ericsson | Broadband TV News.
• Red Bee launches social media platform | Broadband TV News
  Red Bee Media has launched a portfolio of content discovery solutions, based on the age of problem of consumers not being able to find anything they want to watch, no matter how many channels are available to them. via Red … Continue reading →
• How the iPhone is Revolutionising the EPG | Blogs | Red Bee Media
  As TV systems have become larger and more complex, there is an increasing need for tools to help wade through the confusion. As it stands, viewers are already drowning in choice. via How the iPhone is Revolutionising the EPG | … Continue reading →
• Why Apple TV is finally starting to matter — Online Video News
  is this little snippet: According to CEO Tim Cook, the company sold 1.4 million Apple TVs during the holiday quarter. That’s notable because it’s about half of the devices that Apple had sold in the entire year prior, and one-third … Continue reading →
• Net Insight wins significant expansion order in the EMEA region
  Net Insight, a provider of scalable transport systems for media, IP and broadcast networks, has received a significant expansion order for a nationwide digital TV and media network in the EMEA region. via Net Insight wins significant expansion order in … Continue reading →
• The Hermes Project: Sky opens up free WiFi to Unlimited punters
  Sky have started to e-mail customers on their ‘Unlimited’ (top tier DSL service on their own LLU network) and ‘Connect’ (their offnet ‘up to’ 8Mb service which runs off BT Wholesale’s network) to invite them to register for free unlimited … Continue reading →

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 26, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• More Than 50% of Devices at CES Were Internet Connected
  More than half of the devices launched at CES earlier this month were connected. That’s according to the GSMA, a worldwide association of mobile operators and related companies. GSMA calculated that more than 90% of TVs at CES, 70% of … Continue reading →
• Complaints Are Short-Sighted Regarding UltraViolet | Home Media Magazine
  Maybe it’s human nature to complain, to find fault with new products and technologies. But the criticism that has been leveled at UltraViolet — the revolutionary “digital locker,” backed by five of the six major studios, that lets consumers buy … Continue reading →
• South Africa to postpone DSO | Advanced Television
  The South African government will not meet its self-imposed deadline of April 2012 to switch on digital terrestrial television, says communications minister Dina Pule, who now expects services will be only be launched commercially in the third quarter of the … Continue reading →
• FiOS TV reaches 4.2m subs | Advanced Television
  Verizon Communications posted the highest year-over-year quarterly revenue growth in the company’s 11-year history in fourth-quarter 2011, fueled by continued strong demand for Verizon Wireless services and handsets, FiOS fiber-optic services, and strategic business products and services. via FiOS TV … Continue reading →
• Smart TV sales suffer from cautious consumer | Advanced Television
  A YouGov survey late last year revealed that 1 in 10 people in the UK owned a Smart TV, but intention to purchase was very low – only 15 per cent of UK consumers said they would buy one within … Continue reading →
• 100m hybrid STBs in 2015 | Advanced Television
  Hybrid STBs are a fast-growing segment of the worldwide STB market says NPD In-Stat. The boxes include a TV tuner and an Internet connection. Hybrid STBs are appearing in all service categories and new usage models and applications have provided … Continue reading →
• Cord Cutters: A first look at Boxee Live TV (video) — Online Video News
  Live HD TV is coming to the Boxee Box, thanks to the new live TV dongle. How does it work, and is it worth $50? via Cord Cutters: A first look at Boxee Live TV (video) — Online Video News.
• Swiss operator Sunrise launches IPTV service – FierceIPTV
  Swiss operator Sunrise has rolled out its long-awaited IPTV service, which it announced in November. Sunrise, the No. 2 mobile operator in Switzerland, and the third-largest broadband provider, launched a pilot IPTV service in October, and is competing with Swisscom … Continue reading →
• Bouygues to launch cloud gaming service via IPTV box » Digital TV Europe
  French telco Bouygues Telecom is launching a console-quality cloud-based gaming service. via Bouygues to launch cloud gaming service via IPTV box » Digital TV Europe.
• Telly makers failing to turn punters on to smart TV • reghardware
  UK consumers aren’t yet turning on to the smart TV concept, pollster YouGov revealed today. via Telly makers failing to turn punters on to smart TV • reghardware.
• Ten… IPTV set-top boxes • reghardware
  Nearly every new gadget can be connected to the internet. The smart TVs popularised by Samsung and others are the focus of this but you don’t need to shell out on a new telly – a cost-effective IPTV box can … Continue reading →
• Netflix shares plunge on fears over growth plans » Digital TV Europe
  Netflix shares plunged yesterday after a number of analysts warned that the company’s growth plans, particularly internationally, will see further losses. via Netflix shares plunge on fears over growth plans » Digital TV Europe.
• TDC sees VOD requests triple » Digital TV Europe
  Danish operator TDC, owner of the YouSee cable platform, delivered 2.9 million VOD requests last year, almost three times more than in 2010. via TDC sees VOD requests triple » Digital TV Europe.
• Strong TV gains for KPN | Broadband TV News
  Dutch incumbent telecom provider KPN has said it added 84,000 new customers to its IPTV service during Q4 last year. via Strong TV gains for KPN | Broadband TV News.
• YouTube gets 4 billion views per day | Techwatch: Tech News
  60 hours of video is uploaded to the site every minute via YouTube gets 4 billion views per day | Techwatch: Tech News.
• Amino Selects Celeno Wi-Fi for Connected IPTV Set-Top Boxes
  Amino Communications (AIM: AMO), leaders in IPTV/OTT solutions, today announced that it has selected Celeno Communications, a leading provider of semiconductors for multimedia Wi-Fi home networking applications, to provide a range of wireless products that complement Amino’s range of award-winning … Continue reading →
• STMicroelectronics Reports 2011 Fourth Quarter and Full Year Financial Results
  STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM) reported financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2011. via STMicroelectronics Reports 2011 Fourth Quarter and Full Year Financial Results.
• IP TV Times: Comparing Sky+ and Virgin Tivo
  Yeah, yeah, I know. I swore that I wouldn’t do it, but it was the red button wot did it. I paid for Sky Sports online and on Virgin and was still unable to watch Welsh rugby teams play in … Continue reading →
• thePlatform introduces one HTML5 player to rule them all — Online Video News
  thePlatform is pushing cross-platform compatibility with a new offering that will let its customers create one video player that can be delivered to any device or browser that is trying to access it. That capability is being rolled out due … Continue reading →
• UK linear TV viewing remains strong | Advanced Television
  Linear TV viewing in the UK matched the record level it set in 2010, with commercial TV increasing its share of total viewing to 64 per cent in 2011, according to Thinkbox, the marketing body for commercial TV in the … Continue reading →
• The Hermes Project: Have Sky bought into a social white elephant?
  There was much attention to a deal that Sky did earlier this month where they picked up 10% of Zeebox, a company that builds ‘social TV’ apps that users interact with as a ‘second screen’ to comment on TV programmes … Continue reading →
• Telcos continue to expand in pay TV
  Telcos accounted for 25 percent of the total $113 billion global TV service revenues in 2011, and will continue to expand on the back of continuing IPTV and increasing OTT deployments, according to a report from UK analyst group Ovum. … Continue reading →
• The Digital Piracy Problem Is Riddled With Hypocrisy | paidContent
  In the summer of 2009, I found myself invited to a small party in an old bourgeois apartment with breathtaking views of the Champ-de-Mars and Eiffel Tower. The gathering was meant to be an informal discussion among media people about … Continue reading →

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 25, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• IPTV UK: what’s on tonight? • reghardware
  2012 looks like it stands a good chance of being the year that IPTV really starts to go mainstream, with more services and a good range of content appearing built in to TVs and other devices, not to mention the … Continue reading →
• Telco pay-TV subs close to 100m | Advanced Television
  Data from TeleGeography show that at the end of Q3 2011 telcos worldwide had a total of 94 million pay-TV subscribers, giving them a 12 per cent share of the global pay-TV market.  Leading the telco charge is America Movil … Continue reading →
• ‘All Stop’ for Italian DTT process | Advanced Television
  Italy’s government has called a halt for the time being on the sale – or otherwise – of spare digital frequencies. The probability is that Italy will start charging for these new operating TV licences, but Industry Minister Corrado Passera … Continue reading →
• France Telecom Refuses to Compete on Price – Is it OK if we Just Pretend This Isn’t Happening? | DSLReports.com, ISP Information
  Earlier this month new French wireless ISP Free started turning heads by offering some disruptive pricing, including a free level of base service that includes 60 voice minutes and 60 SMS’s. via France Telecom Refuses to Compete on Price – … Continue reading →
• UK online viewing growing rapidly » Digital TV Europe
  The number of people in the UK prepared to pay to watch online video is growing rapidly, according to consultants KPMG. via UK online viewing growing rapidly » Digital TV Europe.
• Tablets Are Prime-Time Media Devices | paidContent
  Tablet web use spikes after work and before sleep, another piece of research shows… via Tablets Are Prime-Time Media Devices | paidContent.
• Smartphones, tablets drive shift in European media consumption | Advanced Television
  Digital business analytics specialist comScore and mobile telco TelefЧnica Germany have shared the results of a study showing the shift in media consumption triggered by smartphones, tablets and other connected devices. The report – Connected Europe – How Smartphones and … Continue reading →
• NDS wins out against EchoStar hacking claims | Broadband TV News
  The Supreme Court of the United States of America has turned down a petition against NDS that sought to overturn the August 2010 ruling in the long running EchoStar-Dish hacking case. via NDS wins out against EchoStar hacking claims | … Continue reading →
• Supreme Court win for NDS | Advanced Television
  Digital TV technology specialist NDS is claiming victory in a long-running dispute with US satellite operator EchoStar and associated companies, following a US Supreme Court ruling. via Supreme Court win for NDS | Advanced Television.
• EU to force shops to take back old electronics | News | TechRadar
  The European Parliament has laid down plans that will mean large electronics retailers are required by law to accept old equipment for recycling. via EU to force shops to take back old electronics | News | TechRadar.
• Breakthrough for online streaming, claims KPMG | Broadband TV News
  Consumers are increasingly willing to pay for online streaming services, according to KPMG’s latest Media & Entertainment Barometer. via Breakthrough for online streaming, claims KPMG | Broadband TV News.
• CableLabs Interop Event to Evaluate OpenCable™ 3DTV Requirements
  CableLabs® will host a 3DTV interoperability event in February, allowing manufacturers of 3D-capable cable set top boxes, TV sets and test equipment to evaluate product implementations that are based on the OpenCable™ 3DTV requirements, or are designed to interoperate with … Continue reading →
• 3.3 million TNTSat set-tops sold | Broadband TV News
  TNTSat, the French digital terrestrial offer on satellite broadcast via Astra, reached a total of 3.3 million receivers sold at the end of 2011. This represents an increase of 650,000 compared to the end of 2010. via 3.3 million TNTSat … Continue reading →
• ACMA starts discussion on DTT evolution in Australia
  The Australian Communications and Media Authority is considering the future technological evolution of free-to-air television after the transition to digital television is complete via ACMA starts discussion on DTT evolution in Australia.
• Czech VOD market grows | Broadband TV News
  Competition in the online VOD market is set to intensify in the Czech Republic, with MTG-backed Prima TV, one of the country’s top two commercial broadcasters, preparing to launch a new service. via Czech VOD market grows | Broadband TV … Continue reading →
• Connected TV to Dominate Global TV Shipments by 2015
  With forecasts exceeding 80% of units shipped by 2015, connected TVs are expected to lead the way in global TV shipments escalating from 27% in 2011, according to new research from Futuresource Consulting. via Connected TV to Dominate Global TV … Continue reading →
• Endgame: RIM’s Balsillie, Lazaridis To Step Down From CEO Roles | paidContent
  Research in Motion (NSDQ: RIMM) has finally decided to get serious about its predicament: co-CEOs Jim Balsillie and Mike Lazaridis are stepping aside after a disastrous year in which the company squandered its once-dominant position in the smartphone market. via … Continue reading →
• informitv – Zeebox trial questions value of viewing companion
  Zeebox may be attracting a lot of attention as a viewing companion, not least from Sky, having invested a reported £10 million for a 10% stake in the company, which employs 30 staff. However, the results of the first trial … Continue reading →

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 24, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• TouchTV comes to LG Smart TV, iPads: catch news clips at home, on the go — Engadget
  If you swing past your local Best Buy and pick up one of those new-fangled LG Smart TVs, you’ll find TouchTV’s news-clip collection platform available inside. via TouchTV comes to LG Smart TV, iPads: catch news clips at home, on … Continue reading →
• Netflix Discovers It Has a Marketing Problem
  Adage reports that Netflix is replacing its chief marketing officer Leslie Kilgore. You don’t say? I’m nearly as surprised as I was when yesterday was Thursday. Netflix’ marketing was nothing short of disasterous last year. via Netflix Discovers It Has … Continue reading →

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 23, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• After a year of setbacks, Netflix marketing chief steps down — Online Video News
  After a tumultuous year for Netflix, long-time Chief Marketing Officer Leslie Kilgore will be stepping down from her role with the company. In her place, Netflix has named Jessie Becker as its interim Chief Marketing Officer and appointed Jonathan Friedland … Continue reading →
• Virgin Media Broadband ISP Customers Dominate Netflix UK Internet Traffic − ISPreview UK News
  Customers of the Virgin Media broadband service account for 32% of internet traffic to Netflix UK, which streams unlimited movies and TV episodes to computers and other online devices. By comparison BT customers only accounted for 21% and Sky Broadband … Continue reading →
• 5m ‘second tablets’ to be purchased in 2012 | Advanced Television
  According to predictions by Deloitte, more and more people are going to own more than one tablet device. Jolyon Barker, global lead for Deloitte’s Technology, Media and Telecommunications department, said: “The tablet explosion has shown little sign of slowing down … Continue reading →
• DTG :: News :: Report: Connected TV to ‘dominate’ global TV shipments
  Connected TVs will lead the way in global TV shipments, with forecasts escalating from 27% of units shipped in 2011 to over 80% by 2015, according to new research from Futuresource Consulting. via DTG :: News :: Report: Connected TV … Continue reading →
• Connected TV shipments expected to grow rapidly » Digital TV Europe
  Connected sets are expected to account for over 80% of global TV shipments by 2015, up from 27% in 2011, according to forecasts from Futuresource Consulting. via Connected TV shipments expected to grow rapidly » Digital TV Europe.
• Hollande says he will abrogate Hadopi » Digital TV Europe
  François Hollande, the French socialist party’s candidate in next year’s presidential election, has indicated he would abolish the current Hadopi anti-piracy regime if elected. via Hollande says he will abrogate Hadopi » Digital TV Europe.
• Clover’s Week: Stop the presses | Broadband TV News
  How similar is the regulation of the press to that of VOD? Asks Julian Clover. via Clover’s Week: Stop the presses | Broadband TV News.
• Netgem remains profitable despite revenue dip | Broadband TV News
  Netgem witnessed a 10% fall in revenues during the fourth quarter as growth in international sales failed to compensate for the loss of business in its domestic market. via Netgem remains profitable despite revenue dip | Broadband TV News.
• Acetrax launches VOD across Europe | Broadband TV News
  Acetrax, the multi-region digital movie retailer, will be launching its T-VOD movies service across the UK, France, Italy and Germany via the Inview Technology connected TV service this spring. via Acetrax launches VOD across Europe | Broadband TV News.
• Canal Digitaal phasing out Irdeto | Broadband TV News
  The Dutch satellite DTH platform Canal Digitaal is phasing out Irdeto encryption, according to Dutch magazine Totaal TV. via Canal Digitaal phasing out Irdeto | Broadband TV News.
• Analyst: Netflix Added 400K Domestic Subs in Q4 | Home Media Magazine
  Netflix is projected to have gained 400,000 domestic subscribers in the fourth quarter (which ended Dec. 31), in addition to another 1.7 million subs in the first quarter ending March 31, an analyst said. via Analyst: Netflix Added 400K Domestic … Continue reading →
• Time Warner Cable app streams live TV to iPhones, no longer iPad-only — Engadget
  After finally issuing a version of its TWC TV app for Android tablets and phones (sans-live TV streaming, for now) Time Warner Cable has finally made its iOS version, which launched last March on the iPad, compatible with the iPhone … Continue reading →
• MegaUpload Knocked Offline As Feds Arrest Admins | Then Why The Need For SOPA & PIPA?
  MegaUpload is no more, at least in its former capacity. We can now look forward to a long and expensive legal battle, and no difference whatsoever being made to how content is shared over the Internet. via MegaUpload Knocked Offline … Continue reading →

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 21, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• Acetrax preps TVoD launch | Advanced Television
  Multi-region digital movie retailer Acetrax is to launch a TVoD (Transactional VoD) movies service across the UK, France, Italy and Germany via the Inview Technology connected TV service this spring. via Acetrax preps TVoD launch | Advanced Television.
• Updated: Day After Piracy Bill Collapses, Feds Shut Down Megaupload | paidContent
  The FBI today unsealed an indictment that charges file-sharing site Megaupload and its executives with a list of criminal charges, including conspiracy to commit racketeering and money laundering. via Updated: Day After Piracy Bill Collapses, Feds Shut Down Megaupload | … Continue reading →
• Will Netflix vs Lovefilm drive you to piracy? | News | TechRadar
  The launch of Netflix into the UK last week has no doubt left plenty of Brits agonising over which service to go for: Lovefilm or Netflix? Annoyingly, the ideal answer is both. via Will Netflix vs Lovefilm drive you to … Continue reading →
• TVTechnology: Miranda Targeted for Takeover
  The investment firm aiming to take control of Miranda Technologies has put forth its nominees for the board of directors, including former Harris, Leitch and Grass Valley executive, Tim Thorsteinson. JEC capital Partners of Randolph, Mass., which holds 7 percent … Continue reading →
• Report and Order lays out rules for closed captioning of IP-delivered content
  The FCC adopted Jan. 12 a Report and Order setting up rules governing the closed-captioning requirements for those who own, provide and distribute video programming via IP. via Report and Order lays out rules for closed captioning of IP-delivered content.
• Connected TV to dominate global TV shipments | Advanced Television
  With forecasts exceeding 80 per cent of units shipped by 2015, connected TVs are expected to lead the way in global TV shipments escalating from 27 per cent in 2011, according to new research from Futuresource Consulting. On a regional … Continue reading →
• Lovefilm lands on LG, Roku up next — Online Video News
  British online video service Lovefilm is expanding its device footprint to fend off Netflix, which launched in the country two weeks ago. Lovefilm’s customers will be able to access the service on LG smart TVs, according to an announcement the … Continue reading →
• Innovation Has its Rewards: TV Innovation Award & IPTV Market Leader |
  I’m constantly being asked what differentiates Verimatrix.  In truth, it’s many things: our talented team, our commitment to excellence, our ability to “think outside the box.”  But one theme cuts across all of these different assets, and that’s our continuing … Continue reading →
• Updated DRM Reference Table Now Available « Copyright and Technology
  I have updated the GiantSteps DRM and Content Protection Reference Table that I have been maintaining for the past three years. via Updated DRM Reference Table Now Available « Copyright and Technology.
• UK ISP PlusNet Reports Sharp Rise in Netflix Internet Video Streaming Traffic − ISPreview UK News
  Broadband ISP PlusNet has revealed that data traffic from the recently launched Netflix UK service (details), which streams unlimited movies and TV episodes straight from the internet to your computer, is increasing day on day and now accounts for more … Continue reading →
• Canal Digital makes Wimp more widely available » Digital TV Europe
  Norwegian pay TV service Canal Digital is making the Wimp music service more widely available to its customers. via Canal Digital makes Wimp more widely available » Digital TV Europe.
• Melita Cable hails VOD usage » Digital TV Europe
  Subscribers to Malta’s Melita Cable have used the operator’s video-on-demand service over 250,000 times since its launch four months ago, according to SeaChange International-owned On Demand Group, which supplies the service. via Melita Cable hails VOD usage » Digital TV … Continue reading →
• Light Reading Europe – EuroBlog – Ericsson Shines a Light on CEM
  We’ve been banging on about Customer Experience Management (CEM) lately, saying how it’s going to become a hotter topic in 2012 and how it’s likely to be a more prominent issue at this year’s Barcelona-based LTE Love-In (aka Mobile World … Continue reading →
• Netflix launches in the UK … time to get Fibre? – Community Site News from Plusnet
  Netflix has just launched in the UK, meaning you can stream unlimited movies and TV episodes straight from t’internet to your PC, laptop, games console or TV – from just £5.99 a month. But, before you sign up and buy … Continue reading →
• Broadpeak confirmed as leading VoD server software vendor in Europe | Advanced Television
  Broadpeak, a  provider of content delivery networks (CDN) and video-on-demand (VoD) servers for cable, IPTV, and hybrid TV operators worldwide, has topped the European video-on-demand server software rankings in the latest Multimedia Research Group (MRG) IPTV Market Leaders Report. This … Continue reading →
• Croatian IPTV platform goes national | Broadband TV News
  The Croatian alternative telco H1 Telekom is now reported to be offering its IPTV service on a national basis. via Croatian IPTV platform goes national | Broadband TV News.
• Lovefilm gets smart with LG | Broadband TV News
  Lovefilm is to be added to the LG Smart TV platform, giving owners of LG’s connected TVs access to the video streaming service Lovefilm instant. via Lovefilm gets smart with LG | Broadband TV News.
• Broadcasters hold responsibility for VOD content | Broadband TV News
  In a landmark ruling Ofcom has backed a decision by the industry regulator ATVOD that three Viacom companies were responsible for their own content on the Virgin Media platform. via Broadcasters hold responsibility for VOD content | Broadband TV News.
• German cable analogue alternative for DTH | Broadband TV News
  With just under 100 days to go before analogue switch-off of all German satellite DTH broadcasts, cable association Anga said viewers can continue to watch analogue on their cable connection. via German cable analogue alternative for DTH | Broadband TV … Continue reading →
• France buries its mobile TV project | Broadband TV News
  There will not be a mobile TV service using the DVB-H standard in France, according to local reports. TDF now wants to use the capacity for a new B2M (Mobile Multimedia Broadcast) service. via France buries its mobile TV project … Continue reading →
• The Hermes Project: Google TV demo caused Murdoch rant
  News Corporation head honcho Rupert Murdoch launched a fierce attack about Google’s inability to block pirated content from their search results – and it’s come to light that it was as the result of a demonstration of Google TV by … Continue reading →
• UK Broadcasters standardize file delivery specification
  Key to the smooth running of any broadcast operation is the delivery of the content from post-production facilities in the correct format. Most commissioning broadcasters have a detailed delivery specification that lays down the media of choice (tape format), scanning … Continue reading →
• CEA Website Joins Antipiracy Legislation Protest – 2012-01-18 14:44:00 | Multichannel News
  Add the Consumer Electronics Association to the list of Web sites that went dark Wednesday to protest antipiracy legislation critics argue is an overbroad threat to Internet freedom. via CEA Website Joins Antipiracy Legislation Protest – 2012-01-18 14:44:00 | Multichannel … Continue reading →

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Today’s Digital News January 20, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• Wi-Fi home video devices 600m units in 2015 | Advanced Television
  The popularity of OTT video has created a demand for Wi-Fi in the entertainment cluster of home living rooms. Increasingly, home video entertainment devices such as digital TVs, Blu-ray players, game consoles, and all versions of STBs are coming to … Continue reading →
• Sky-D breaks 10 million viewer mark | Broadband TV News
  Sky Deutschland CEO Brian Sullivan says the 10 million viewers to the DTH platform in the fourth quarter demonstrates a constantly growing viewer interest in its programming. via Sky-D breaks 10 million viewer mark | Broadband TV News.
• Slow subs growth predicted for BSkyB | Advanced Television
  BSkyB will unveil its mid-year results (to December 31st) on January 31st. Another investment bank analyst has forecast that the pay-TV operator’s subs growth will stumble for its second quarter (to December 31st). via Slow subs growth predicted for BSkyB … Continue reading →
• Sony’s New Google TV – CES 2012 – Geek News Central
  When the Google TV first came out I thought it was an interesting concept. However the one thing that I didn’t like was the size of the remote. via Sony’s New Google TV – CES 2012 – Geek News Central.

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 19, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• All the Tech That Makes Future TVs So Gorgeous
  CES was more than just a Grand Canyon filled with eye candy—the sci-fi-beautiful TVs we saw are real, and you’re gonna want them. But OLED? 8k? Crystal Display? What’s all this mean? We’ll explain the pretty new things. via All … Continue reading →
• New BBC iPlayer stats chart the rise of ‘connected’ TV viewing — Engadget
  Thanks to widespread adoption and excellent cross-platform availability, the BBC’s ubiquitous iPlayer is the perfect gauge of online viewing habits. via New BBC iPlayer stats chart the rise of ‘connected’ TV viewing — Engadget.
• SeaChange introduces Nucleus Hybrid Gateway software at CES
  SeaChange International introduced its Nucleus Hybrid Gateway software, next-generation software for supporting cable operators’ transition from QAM to IP video so operators can offer consumers multiscreen media sharing, whole-home DVR, access to apps and OTT content, and the ability to … Continue reading →
• RIM Said To Court Samsung’s Bid After Pushing Microsoft, Nokia Away | paidContent
  It’s hard to see Research in Motion (NSDQ: RIMM) making it through 2012 without some sort of massive change, but could that really involve a sale of the company to Samsung? That’s what a new report claims, flying in the … Continue reading →
• CES brings new controls to devices and TVs
  Samsung unveiled the worst-kept secret of CES: that the Galaxy Note Android phone finally would be heading to the United States. With its huge 5.3-inch screen, it is the optimum display for mobile TV. But many were surprised that the … Continue reading →
• Sharp TV Goes Mobile at CES
  A growing trend seen at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas is mobile television. Or rather, let’s call it portable television. Television sets in the coming year will be made to be portable; sets now can be relocated easily. … Continue reading →
• Cable download speeds put telcos to shame – FierceIPTV
  New numbers from Ookla’s Net Index show that cable operators increasingly are offering consumers the greatest download speeds, as legacy DSL service put telcos in the back seat. via Cable download speeds put telcos to shame – FierceIPTV.
• Netflix shareholder sues | Advanced Television
  A shareholder in Netflix is taking legal action against the video streaming and rental site, claiming it made “materially false and misleading statements” about its business practices and its contracts with content providers. They allege the statements meant investors were … Continue reading →
• BlackArrow strengthens position in the advanced advertising marketplace | Advanced Television
  BlackArrow, a worldwide provider of advanced advertising solutions for New TV platforms, today announced a trio of strategic hires that bolsters the company’s multiplatform advertising marketplace expertise and builds upon its accomplished management team. The new executives bring proven success … Continue reading →
• SFR offering cloud-based gaming to TV customers » Digital TV Europe
  French service provider SFR has launched a cloud-based gaming-on-demand service, allowing subscribers to access games via the Neufbox TV service. via SFR offering cloud-based gaming to TV customers » Digital TV Europe.
• BBC R&D in the mood for navigation | Broadband TV News
  BBC Research & Development is studying how content discovery can be developed to help viewers find the shows best suited to their mood. via BBC R&D in the mood for navigation | Broadband TV News.

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 18, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• Netflix Hit With Class-Action Suit By Angry Investors | paidContent
  Netflix (NSDQ: NFLX) has been hit with a class-action suit by a group of disgruntled investors who claim the online movie-rental chain withheld information from them prior to its steep stock-price plunge over the late summer and fall. via Netflix … Continue reading →
• Why UltraViolet Produced More Questions Than Answers At CES | paidContent
  The UltraViolet initiative left the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas last week with an important new retail channel in Amazon NSDQ: AMZN, a new marketing partnership to launch an upcoming ad blitz, and some splashy new hardware announcements from … Continue reading →
• 8 CES tech trends that will change your life
  We’’re just back from the consumer electronics extravaganza in Las Vegas where we saw some amazing new gadgets and gear including new TVs, tablets, smartphones and new high tech automobiles. via 8 CES tech trends that will change your life.
• Live TV still top for UK movie watching | News | TechRadar
  You hear a lot about how people watch films today, from the legit movie stream to the shady bit torrent – but for all the fancy tech, more films are watched live on TV than any other way in the … Continue reading →
• Lovefilm lengthens UK content collection • reghardware
  Amazon struck a deal with Disney this week that’ll see ABC TV content available on demand to Lovefilm subscribers. via Lovefilm lengthens UK content collection • reghardware.
• Five things that knocked CES 2012 for six • Channel Register
  And now, after worn-out CES 2012 attendees and exhibitors have stumbled off home in a daze, Wireless Watch presents the five themes that stood out at the week-long celebration of consumerism that you ought to know about. via Five things … Continue reading →
• CES 2012: HDTV and connected devices round-up — Engadget
  The Consumer Electronics Show is always a big deal for HDTVs and the devices that plug into them, and the 2012 edition was no different. via CES 2012: HDTV and connected devices round-up — Engadget.
• Why you’ll buy a new TV in the next 5 years — Online Video News
  A few weeks ago, I wrote a post entitled “The incredible shrinking TV replacement cycle,” which used some data to illustrate how TV buyers have started bucking the longtime trend of upgrading their TV screens every seven to eight years, … Continue reading →
• Netflix, Hulu and the golden age of content — Online Video News
  Hulu is launching its first scripted original series in February, and the company is already thinking about investing more in original content: Hulu Chief Content Officer Andy Forssell told Bloomberg on Sunday it might raise money this year to spend more … Continue reading →
• DTG :: News :: DTG collects Emmy Award
  The DTG membership has won an Emmy Award for the ‘pioneering development and deployment of Active Format Description (AFD) technology and system’. via DTG :: News :: DTG collects Emmy Award.
• Interactive TV Advertising: Not Huge Now, Will This Be The Year It Grows? | paidContent
  Last week’s CES event brought a clutch of announcements around interactive TV services—specifically around more content getting pushed to devices. That points to growing attention to the medium: will advertising follow? via Interactive TV Advertising: Not Huge Now, Will This … Continue reading →
• iPlayer nears 2bn requests in 2011 | Advanced Television
  The BBC’s iPlayer received 1.94 billion requests for TV programmes last year. via iPlayer nears 2bn requests in 2011 | Advanced Television.
• informitv – BBC plans charging for access to archive
  The BBC is reportedly planning to charge viewers for access to its archive programming. That may come as no real shock but it is surprising that its commercial arm, BBC Worldwide, is apparently not involved. The BBC says that any … Continue reading →
• Connected devices help iPlayer to record year » Digital TV Europe
  The BBC’s iPlayer platform received a record 1.94 billion requests for TV programmes last year, with the number of requests for connected TVs increasing significantly. via Connected devices help iPlayer to record year » Digital TV Europe.
• Swisscom launches catch-up platform » Digital TV Europe
  Swisscom is launching a new catch-up TV service as it revealed the growing popularity of its on-demand platform. via Swisscom launches catch-up platform » Digital TV Europe.
• DLNA launches Premium Video » Digital TV Europe
  Connected home consortium the DLNA used last week’s CES in Las Vegas to launch DLNA Premium Video, designed to allow consumers to stream TV programmes and movies to DLNA-certified products. via DLNA launches Premium Video » Digital TV Europe.
• BT Vision to add social media | Broadband TV News
  BT Vision is to redesign its IPTV service to offer a more personalised experience and to include elements of social media. via BT Vision to add social media | Broadband TV News.
• Standard definition switch off looms
  HDTV household penetration will soon be high enough in developed countries for broadcasters and pay TV operators to consider ending their Standard Definition transmissions, according to a new report from Digital TV Research. via Standard definition switch off looms.
• informitv – Smart TVs show voice and gesture control
  TV, TV on the wall, who has the smartest screen of all? The New Year resolution for television displays is to be thinner, more attractive and smarter than ever. If the CES trade show in Las Vegas is anything to … Continue reading →
• New devices boost BBC iPlayer | Broadband TV News
  The growing popularity of connected TVs, smartphones and tablets have helped the BBC to a record-breaking 1.94 billion TV and radio programme requests across all platforms during 2011. via New devices boost BBC iPlayer | Broadband TV News.

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 17, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• BT Vision gets social | Advanced Television
  BT is to revamp is BT Vision IPTV service to offer a more personalised experience and social media elements, reports the FT. via BT Vision gets social | Advanced Television.
• Boxee explains dropping PC and Mac clients at CES | TUAW – The Unofficial Apple Weblog
  We found Boxee at CES’ ShowStoppers event this year, and when we cornered them to complain about dropping official PC and Mac support late in 2011, they were appropriately apologetic. Boxee’s Liz Dellheim said that yes, they’re sorry that they’ve … Continue reading →
• Could “Windows TV” be Windows 8′s biggest surprise?
  The closer we get to the unveiling of the Windows 8 beta, the more I’m thinking about the impact or not this operating system is going to have on the world.  Since we first saw that Metro would be the … Continue reading →

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 16, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• 10 More Reasons Why Freelancing Is Not for You | FreelanceFolder
  On this blog, we normally encourage people to become freelancers. That’s because we believe that for many people, freelancing offers a terrific combination of great opportunities and a great lifestyle. via 10 More Reasons Why Freelancing Is Not for You … Continue reading →
• SeaChange CFO Resigns – 2012-01-13 20:33:44 | Multichannel News
  SeaChange International announced Friday that Kevin Bisson has resigned as chief financial officer to accept a position at another publicly traded company. via SeaChange CFO Resigns – 2012-01-13 20:33:44 | Multichannel News.
• Broadband sees strongest growth since 2009 | Advanced Television
  Latest broadband and IPTV figures published by the Broadband Forum show a significant surge in growth in Q3-2011, with more new subscribers added in the quarter than at any time since early 2009. The figures also point to the growing … Continue reading →
• CES 2012: Yahoo! Connected TV Delivers Broadcast Interactivity Experience, New TV Apps
  Yahoo!, the premier digital media company, today announced the newest line-up of consumer and advertiser offerings from the 2011 Primetime Emmy(R) Engineering Plaque Award-winning Yahoo! Connected TV platform. Yahoo!’s unique broadcast interactivity technology, which delivers real-time Internet content to complement … Continue reading →
• CES 2012: KIT digital Launches Extensions for Its Connected Device Framework for Major Broadcast Customers
  KIT Digital, a leading premium cloud-based software solutions and technology services provider for multiscreen video management and delivery, today announced the release of a number of Social TV user experiences across the Xbox LIVE service, including voice and motion controlled … Continue reading →
• Google TV’s biggest competitor looks awfully familiar — Online Video News
  Google TV picked up some steam at this year’s CES, with Vizio, Sony and LG announcing new devices for the smart TV platform. But as Google is paving the way to take the platform mainstream, a new, potentially powerful competitor … Continue reading →
• EC points way to European broadcast rights | Advanced Television
  The European Commission is likely to propose collective copyright legislation that could lead to BSkyB and other digital TV operators being forced to make their programmes available to viewers across the EU. via EC points way to European broadcast rights … Continue reading →
• KIT Digital provides XBox apps for UK broadcasters » Digital TV Europe
  TV technology provider KIT Digital is providing technology to support delivery of services, including voice and motion controlled applications, to the XBox Live platform by UK broadcasters Channel 4 and Channel 5. via KIT Digital provides XBox apps for UK … Continue reading →
• Schwarz: Society and TV, Back to Square One with Social TV
  Nothing stays new in the nascent space of TV and online convergence. So aren’t you a bit surprised that “Social TV” is still a cool buzzword despite having been around for a few years already? Let me suggest in five … Continue reading →
• Hulu to spend $500m on content | Advanced Television
  Hulu plans to spend about $500 million on programming this year, up $200 million on the $300 million Hulu spent on programming in 2011. via Hulu to spend $500m on content | Advanced Television.
• CloudTV H5′s web-based TV remote with voice control (hands-on) | The Verge
  Earlier this week, ActiveVideo announced its CloudTV H5 platform for cable / satellite services or smart TVs that uses voice-control to easily find and watch content on your TV. It wasn’t clear exactly how it works, so we grabbed the … Continue reading →
• Haier transparent HDTV graces CES showfloor | Ubergizmo
  [CES 2012] Haier takes the Minority Report route with their transparent HDTVs this CES, where you will be able to choose from a 22″ or 46″ model, depending on your budget (as well as size of your room). via Haier … Continue reading →
• Vizio CTO Matt McRae: Internet-based TV provider with 50-100 channels coming within 18 months | The Verge
  We also talked a lot about smart TV and the challenges of integrating live television with internet content, and Matt said something particularly interesting — he believes that a full internet TV provider that offers 50-100 channels to consumers will … Continue reading →
• Smart TVs: How Do They Work? | TechCrunch
  Smart TVs were everywhere at CES. I must have seen two hundred of them while I was there. I could report on specs, resolution or 3D screens, but really, I am more curious about that word “smart” than I am … Continue reading →
• BBC mulls iPlayer fees for archives, repeats • The Register
  The BBC is mulling introducing pay-per-view fees for recent broadcasts and access to its archive via iPlayer, according to trade mag Broadcast. The corporation is keen to plug what it sees as a funding loophole. The majority of the BBC’s … Continue reading →
• Don’t hold your breath for newer Netflix content | News | TechRadar
  When we met with Netflix earlier this week, we asked TechRadar’s Facebook pals what they’d like to ask the company. via Don’t hold your breath for newer Netflix content | News | TechRadar.
• Global IPTV subscribers up 6% in 3Q 2011 to 54.4 million
  Broadband Delivers Strongest Growth Since 2009 Third quarter broadband figures achieve 2009 levels of growth Telecom operators increase market share as fiber shows strongest access growth rate Asia remains dominant region, with China nearly doubling its broadband subscriber numbers IPTV … Continue reading →

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 14, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• Where were all the Google TVs at CES? — Online Video News
  Just a week ago, the blogosphere was abuzz with the news that Google had officially locked down partners for a whole new generation of devices with its operating system for connected TVs. But if Google finally is gaining the trust … Continue reading →
• From CES, A Few Hints About the Future of TV
  This year’s Consumer Electronics Show is getting ready to wrap up in Las Vegas tomorrow. There may not have been a single blockbuster product announcement, but when it comes to the future of television, CES is always good for a … Continue reading →
• Hulu Plus Claims More Than 1.5 Million Subs; Commits $500 Million To Content In 2012 | paidContent
  Hulu Plus has “materially exceeded” expectations, passing 1.5 million paying subscribers and heading closer to the point where the premium video service plus its younger sibling in Japan will help account for half of Hulu’s revenues. via Hulu Plus Claims … Continue reading →
• Study: Old-School TV Viewing Is Still Growing | paidContent
  A range of on-demand viewing options—and some new platforms to watch that content on—has traditional television watching on the run, right? Well, not quite. The average number of hours Americans spend every week sitting on the couch watching terrestrial, cable … Continue reading →
• UltraViolet Gets Two Lifelines « Copyright and Technology
  A panel at this week’s CES show in Las Vegas yielded two pieces of positive news for the DECE/UltraViolet standard, after a launch several months ago with Warner Bros. and its Flixster subsidiary that could charitably be called “premature.”  Of … Continue reading →
• STMicroelectronics Demonstrates Performance of Ultimate Connected Home Platform
  STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, is showcasing its latest-generation connected home platform in Las Vegas during the world’s largest Consumer Electronics Show. via STMicroelectronics Demonstrates Performance of Ultimate Connected Home … Continue reading →
• Social TV & The New UI: Content Discovery In The Connected TV Environment
  Social TV is clearly making its mark on the way we watch TV by creating a more interactive viewing experience for the end user. This dedicated conference stream at the IP&TV World Forum focuses on the up and coming subject … Continue reading →
• Women dominate connected TV use | Advanced Television
  Women’s digital media habits outpaced men’s in 2011, according to international research firm Parks Associates, which reports that women share more content online and download more movies and music than men. For example, women are 73 per cent more likely … Continue reading →
• TV buyers 50% more likely to buy Smart than 3D | Advanced Television
  According to research from TDG, 56 per cent of broadband households are to varying degrees likely to purchase a new TV in the next six months. TDG expects that close to 25 per cent of broadband households will indeed buy … Continue reading →
• Clover’s Week: Netflix swallow doesn’t make it summer | Broadband TV News
  The year begins with new competition in the form of Netflix, available on a connected platform near you, but as Julian Clover writes there are challenges ahead. via Clover’s Week: Netflix swallow doesn’t make it summer | Broadband TV News.
• Studios back Sky in Competition probe | Advanced Television
  Six Hollywood studios have responded to the Competition Commission judgement that their deals with Sky are anti-competitive. The watchdog gave a provisional ruling in August that the exclusive pay-TV deals were anti-competitive. via Studios back Sky in Competition probe | … Continue reading →
• Samsung Smart TV Motion And Voice Control Demonstration
  When Samsung first unveiled its new line of Smart TVs with voice and video control at its CES keynote Monday, we were pretty excited. via Samsung Smart TV Motion And Voice Control Demonstration.
• Microsoft Bails On Becoming A Cable TV Replacement Because It Costs Too Much
  Microsoft was thinking about launching a paid TV subscription service through Xbox Live, but has drawn back after seeing how expensive it would be to license content. via Microsoft Bails On Becoming A Cable TV Replacement Because It Costs Too … Continue reading →
• Amazon Is The First Retailer To Give Its Blessing To Hollywood’s New Movie Format
  Amazon is the first retailer to sign a deal to offer movies in the new UltraViolet file-sharing format. via Amazon Is The First Retailer To Give Its Blessing To Hollywood’s New Movie Format.
• A 3D TV that doesn’t need glasses | TechBlog | a Chron.com blog
  LAS VEGAS – Toshiba has a prototype 3D TV that doesn’t require special glasses, one major reason consumers aren’t rushing to jump on the 3D bandwagon. via A 3D TV that doesn’t need glasses | TechBlog | a Chron.com blog.
• Multiple profiles coming to your Netflix account? | News | TechRadar
  Multiple users may soon be able to make the most of the same Netflix account by way of numerous Facebook log-ins on the same subscription. via Multiple profiles coming to your Netflix account? | News | TechRadar.
• The Future of TV Is Beautiful and Simple and Good
  The televisions that are going to be invading our living rooms in 2012, the ones that Samsung and LG and the rest have been trotting out this week at CES? They’re the most exciting gadgets of the year, and not … Continue reading →
• DLNA Premium Video sends protected TV shows and film to any DLNA device | The Verge
  The Digital Living Network Alliance used CES 2012 to introduce DLNA Premium Video — an extension to existing standards that enables service providers like cable companies to stream protected films and television shows to DLNA certified devices. via DLNA Premium … Continue reading →
• DLNA’s Future: Cable, DVR and Stored Media on All Your Screens, Instantly
  LAS VEGAS —  Three things are going to help you rock your home media setup with DLNA one day. via DLNA’s Future: Cable, DVR and Stored Media on All Your Screens, Instantly.
• Samsung shows off integrated TV streaming apps and DirecTV RVU… again — Engadget
  Time Warner, Comcast, DirecTV and Verizon FiOS TV all displayed ways we could enjoy their service without a set-top box tied to our TV during CES 2011. via Samsung shows off integrated TV streaming apps and DirecTV RVU… again — … Continue reading →
• In pictures: LG Smart TV with Google TV | News | TechRadar
  With all the talk of Google TV, it has to be remembered that the service hadn’t been available straight from a television until CES 2012, when a partnership with LG was announced. via In pictures: LG Smart TV with Google … Continue reading →
• Amazon’s new UltraViolet deal: UV rights to be included in purchases from one unnamed studio | The Verge
  Amazon’s partnership with UltraViolet was announced yesterday, and now we have a little more detail on the deal: Amazon will be including UltraViolet rights with purchases from one unnamed studio. via Amazon’s new UltraViolet deal: UV rights to be included … Continue reading →
• Samsung Smart TV with ‘Smart Interaction’ (hands-on video) | The Verge
  We just got a chance to check out Samsung’s Smart TV tech at CES 2012, and we’ve got a hands-on video for you. via Samsung Smart TV with ‘Smart Interaction’ (hands-on video) | The Verge.
• Microsoft presses ‘pause’ on TV subscription plan | The Verge
  Microsoft has long planned a subscription service for TV shows and movies, and it’s spent the last year trying bring media companies onboard. via Microsoft presses ‘pause’ on TV subscription plan | The Verge.
• Microsoft puts Xbox TV service on hold
  Microsoft has been talking about Xbox TV off and on for some time now, but we’ve heard very little in the way of details despite all of the chatter. The closest thing we got to details was back in September, … Continue reading →
• Netflix Lands In The UK & Ireland To Do Battle With Lovefilm | Will Either Actually Succeed?
  After years of speculation and months of planning, Netflix has finally landed in Europe, launching in the U.K. and Ireland at the beginning of the week. Everyone is being a one-month free trial, at the end of which the streaming-only … Continue reading →
• LG Google TV and Magic Remote Qwerty hands-on — Engadget
  While Samsung waits to debut its take on the Google TV platform, LG is already showing off its hardware, including a new remote control. via LG Google TV and Magic Remote Qwerty hands-on — Engadget.
• 3D TV pornography launches on BSkyB in the UK » Digital TV Europe
  Adult channel Television X is launching its first 3D feature. via 3D TV pornography launches on BSkyB in the UK » Digital TV Europe.
• ONO adds new apps to TiVo » Digital TV Europe
  Spanish cable operator ONO has added a number of new broadband applications and channels for its recently launched TiVo advanced TV service. via ONO adds new apps to TiVo » Digital TV Europe.
• Hollywood Lambasts Sky Movies Ruling, But Open Access Gains Favour | paidContent
  Six Hollywood studios have urged the UK’s competition watchdog to throw out its assertion their Sky Movies deals are anti-competitive. But some of them are warming to its suggestion BSkyB (NYSE: BSY) should offer rival services like Netflix (NSDQ: NFLX) … Continue reading →
• 3 Key TV Trends to Watch at CES | Blogs | Red Bee Media
  The Consumer Electronic Show provides a key indicator of hot trends in the TV industry each year – although the final results can be hit or miss. via 3 Key TV Trends to Watch at CES | Blogs | Red … Continue reading →
• Samsung UK adds Netflix | Broadband TV News
  Samsung has announced that is has added Netflix as the latest partner for its Smart TV App store. via Samsung UK adds Netflix | Broadband TV News.
• On The Heels Of Zeebox, Getglue Gets $12M In New Financing, Reaches 2M Users Milestone
  Only days after Zeebox announced $15 million in investment from Sky, GetGlue, a provider of social television and second screen applications, is pleased to announce that it closed a $12M round of financing led by Rho Ventures. Habib Kairouz, managing … Continue reading →
• Breaking New Ground on Multi-screen Security with GiantSteps |
  Bill Rosenblatt, founder of GiantSteps Media Technology Strategies, provides his perspective on the new white paper we recently launched together, “Content Security Requirements for Multi-Screen Video Services.” via Breaking New Ground on Multi-screen Security with GiantSteps |.
• Time Warner Cable building an app for Panasonic TVs — Online Video News
  Time Warner Cable has developed an app for Panasonic Viera TVs, making it the first operator to bring cable TV content to the platform. The app was being shown off in the Panasonic booth, along with other content providers. via Time … Continue reading →
• CES: Samsung Plugs Into Pay TV Services – 2012-01-12 02:23:09 | Multichannel News
  Samsung Electronics is working with four providers — Comcast, Time Warner Cable, Verizon FiOS TV and DirecTV — to pipe their video services directly into its “smart TVs.” via CES: Samsung Plugs Into Pay TV Services – 2012-01-12 02:23:09 | … Continue reading →
• Samsung shows off integrated TV streaming apps and DirecTV RVU… again — Engadget
  Time Warner, Comcast, DirecTV and Verizon FiOS TV all displayed ways we could enjoy their service without a set-top box tied to our TV during CES 2011. via Samsung shows off integrated TV streaming apps and DirecTV RVU… again — … Continue reading →
• The Hermes Project: Virgin to double broadband speeds
  Virgin Media this morning put out a sizeable announcement via their Twitter feed – that they are to double the broadband speeds of their 4.1 million existing broadband customers over an 18 month upgrade programme via The Hermes Project: Virgin … Continue reading →
• HDMI standard continues its ascent, new specification expected for second half of 2012 — Engadget
  HDMI standard continues its ascent, new specification expected for second half of 2012 — Engadget HDMI’s doing pretty well, and it doesn’t care who knows it.

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 13, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

• Boxee Blog » Facebook and Boxee Team Up Around the TV
  Boxee Blog » Facebook and Boxee Team Up Around the TV:

  Today at CES, we’re announcing a new Facebook app to extend Live TV beyond your living room and onto your Facebook Timeline.

  

  

• CE manufacturers already on the Horizon… | Broadband TV News
  CE manufacturers already on the Horizon… | Broadband TV News:

  We all know we can look at the horizon, but we can never touch it. Does the same also apply to Liberty Global’s Horizon set-top box? We saw the pictures, we even saw the box at IBC – and we saw some flashy Flash demos. But touching it was out of the question – let alone seeing it at work.

  

  

• Comcast’s new set-top streams live TV to DLNA devices — Online Video News
  Comcast’s new set-top streams live TV to DLNA devices — Online Video News:

  In a demo at the Consumer Electronics Show, a Comcast spokesperson showed off how the company’s next-generation set-top box will stream live and recorded TV to multiple devices on a subscriber’s Wi-Fi network.

  

  

• GetGlue’s next iPad app aims to reinvent the TV guide — Online Video News
  GetGlue’s next iPad app aims to reinvent the TV guide — Online Video News:

  These days, there seem to be countless contenders trying to become the next TV Guide. Soon, another company is going to throw their hat in the ring: GetGlue CEO Alex Iskold told me yesterday that the company is currently working on a new iteration of its iPad app that will be a “personalized version of the TV Guide.”

  

  

• Microsoft builds TV subscription service, cancels release due to high licensing costs — Engadget
  Microsoft builds TV subscription service, cancels release due to high licensing costs — Engadget:

  Still holding out for a subscription based TV service from Microsoft?

  

  

• STMicroelectronics Reveals Most Powerful TV System-on-Chip for Even Smarter TVs
  STMicroelectronics Reveals Most Powerful TV System-on-Chip for Even Smarter TVs:

  STMicroelectronics (NYSE:STM), a global leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications and a world leader in ICs for digital TVs and set-top boxes, announced today details of the first member of the Newman family of TV SoCs, part of ST’s industry-leading broadcast plus connected-services platforms. The FLI7680, codenamed Newman Ultra, delivers unrivalled performance and represents a giant leap forward in the state-of-the-art in SoCs for Smart TVs.

  

  

• TiVo Research Shows OTT and Recorded TV Surpassing Live TV
  TiVo Research Shows OTT and Recorded TV Surpassing Live TV:

  As consumer television viewing habits continue to shift, TiVo Inc. (NASDAQ: TIVO), the creator of and a leader in television services and advertising solutions for digital video recorders (DVRs), released research today showing that the consumption of recorded television and Internet-delivered programming is quickly surpassing live TV viewership.

  

  

• Arris prepares for Euro IPv6 shift | Broadband TV News
  Arris prepares for Euro IPv6 shift | Broadband TV News:

  Arris has released details of new products suitable for the introduction of the IPv6 internet protocol. It follows a week on the test benches of the Excentis lab in Ghent, Belgium.

  

  

• 30% of pay-TV subs will be ‘TV Everywhere’ by 2016 | Advanced Television
  30% of pay-TV subs will be ‘TV Everywhere’ by 2016 | Advanced Television:

  According to TDG’s latest analysis, by 2016 more than 30 million households will use operator-provided ‘TV Everywhere’ (TVE) services to access programmes on their net-connected devices.

  

  

• It’s All Go For TV Everywhere In 2012 – But Will It Pay? « TV Everywhere
  It’s All Go For TV Everywhere In 2012 – But Will It Pay? « TV Everywhere:

  Despite the cacophony of CES news, two TV Everywhere stories caught my eye this week and gave me encouragement that 2012 will be the year we see the multi-screen strategies of pay TV operators and content companies take shape.

  

  

• Danish online video viewing growing rapidly | Advanced Television
  Danish online video viewing growing rapidly | Advanced Television:

  Danish online video viewing is going through a rapid growth. According to analysis conducted by the Danish IT company, Xstream, 94 per cent of all Danes who go online watch online video content, in average, all Danes are in average watching 57 online video clips each month.

  

  

• More Like "MehViolet"
  More Like “MehViolet”:

  parislemon:

  For once, a bit of upbeat news for UltraViolet, the awful idea that Hollywood seems dead set on implementing: Amazon and Samsung are now on board.

  That’s good news for the don’t-call-it-DRM newfangled DRM, which has been swimming in a sea of shit since it launched last year. 

  Of course, the one name still not on board remains the most important: Apple. Wake me up when that happens — which given the customer response to UltraViolet seems unlikely anytime soon. 

  

  

• The Feldman File: Vizio launches $99 Google TV set-top box
  The Feldman File: Vizio launches $99 Google TV set-top box:

  Dan Rayburn of StreamingMedia.com reports that Vizio’s new Google TV-based Stream Player will ship in the first half of 2012, and will be priced at $99 (U.S.). According to Rayburn, the set-top box will only be sold directly by Vizio from its website, but I don’t expect that to last—Vizio sells too much product through resellers such as Costco for the company to ignore that channel.

  

  

• CES 2012: Flingo Launches Twitter and Facebook Sharing From Broadcast TV With One Click
  CES 2012: Flingo Launches Twitter and Facebook Sharing From Broadcast TV With One Click:

  Flingo, a leading publisher of applications for smart TVs, has launched one-click posting to Twitter and Facebook directly from smart TVs, making Social TV more available to everyone. Now, with just one click of the remote control, viewers can watch and share information, such as commentary about what they are watching, what TV programs they like and more, with friends in their social network.

  

  

• Google TV product manager Rishi Chandra: ‘Android is going to be a successful operating system on TVs’ | The Verge
  Google TV product manager Rishi Chandra: ‘Android is going to be a successful operating system on TVs’ | The Verge:

  Google’s playing CES 2012 pretty low-key, even as Google TV products from major manufacturers like Sony, Vizio, LG, and Samsung have become one of the major stories of the show.

  

  

• TiVo shows off streaming DVR content to iPad with prototype transcoder box | The Verge
  TiVo shows off streaming DVR content to iPad with prototype transcoder box | The Verge:

  CES 2012 is jam-packed with smart TVs of every size and shape, but you won’t find TiVo amongst the fray: the original DVR company is holding quiet meetings in its usual private booth tucked above the show floor.

  

  

• Netflix: Warner Bros. movies now available after 56 day delay — Engadget
  Netflix: Warner Bros. movies now available after 56 day delay — Engadget:

  Warner Bros. must have thought that CES was a good week to bury bad news, but unfortunately most people pay attention when you pull a move like this.

  

  

• Hands-On: Android 4.0 devices hook up to any HDTV with MHL [video]
  Hands-On: Android 4.0 devices hook up to any HDTV with MHL [video]:

  Last week, when Roku debuted the Smart Stick, essentially a set-top-box in a USB stick form factor, I made a point to seek out products at the Consumer Electronics Show that utilize the Mobile High-definition Link (MHL) standard that the Roku Smart Stick uses. Fortunately, I found representatives from the MHL Consortium who were more than happy to show how easy it is to connect an Android device to an MHL-compatibile television, and witness the uncompressed MHL experience first hand.

  

  

• Rovi reveals TotalGuide G2 | Broadband TV News
  Rovi reveals TotalGuide G2 | Broadband TV News:

  Rovi has unveiled TotalGuide G2, its second-generation content discovery and access solution for consumer electronics manufacturers. The newly designed solution is designed to help manufacturers differentiate their product range and encourage consumers to use paid for offerings within the smart TV environment.

  

  

For your consultancy needs in TV, contact Blackarrow Consulting

Today’s Digital News January 12, 2012 is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

Saw these post online showing the Ubuntu UI and I must say that the Unity UI stinks as a PC UI but as a TV UI it is sure pretty. I hope someone will post some video of it so we can see if its flow is as nice as the static shots.

It’s still just a proof of concept, which is a bit of a disappointment, but Ubuntu TV was here at CES making its public debut.

via Ubuntu TV eyes-on — Engadget.

Ubuntu TV… nice is a post from: Blackarrow Consulting

Ultraviolet has been working steadily from concept to practice and it has had a number of problems, mostly around usability… something that its main competitor (Apple Fairplay) does not suffer from.

Now though, it has reached an important point in its attempt to hit the big time and it is not the signing up of additional hardware and software vendors. The big time has been reached by signing up one of the largest video retailers in the world – Amazon;

Amazon and Samsung announced that they are adding some more weight behind the initiative. Amazon, for one, is joining the initiative and will soon enable digital purchases through its streaming video service.

via Amazon, Samsung throw UltraViolet a lifeline — Online Video News.

This is the type of backer that it needs to get out there and actually become mainstream and become the replacement for DVD and Blu-ray that consumers need. I just hope that more focus on usability is applied to make the use of content bought and kept in Ultraviolet lockers as transparent as Apple’s Fairplay.

Ultraviolet