networking

DIRECTV has selected Pace HR34 Server to launch its Home Media Center solution.  The HR34 digital home solution, said Pace, is the satellite industry’s first fully multiroom DVR platform. Both companies are looking forward to consumer response, according to DirecTV’s CTO, Romulo Pontual, the Home Media Center will be a first for DIRECTV.  Home Media Center will be able to record and playback different programmes at the same time and offer management access from different devices.

The WYPLAY digital home platform has been selected by Belgacom for is next generation of set-top boxes.  As one of Europe’s leading service providers, Belgacom has over 1 million IPTV subscribers and operates out of Belgium.  In addition to Belgacom, WYPLAY is also able to boast SFR of France as a customer plus partnership that extends to Australia and Africa.

SoftAtHome has joined the band of solution venders offering a cloud platform. At this year’s IBC show SoftAtHome launched the CloudAtHome solution for operators and service providers.  The new SOP based solution allows service providers to support consumer change in digital lifestyle.  At the core is the flexibility that allows users to access content on which ever of the three screens (mobile, TV and PC) they choose.

STMicroelectronics today release details of is forthcoming set-top box system-on-chip solution - codenamed Orly. The chip according to STMicroelectronics is part of its largest-generation of home entertainment high-performance platform. Created using the ARM Cortex-A9 processor which offers market-leading energy efficiency and best-in-class security features, along with support for a wide variety of open-source environments.  Set-top Boxes developed with the chip said ST will act as a hub "connecting all our devices and allowing the greatest user experience, such as 3D program guides and full motion 3DTV, Over-the-Top video and gaming from 3rd-parties".

Etisalat has selected SoftAtHome and Huawei jointly developed turnkey end-to-end IPTV solution. The solution combines SoftAtHome client software platform SoftAtHome Operating Platform (SOP) together with Huawei turnkey end‐to‐end IPTV, OTT and Hybrid video solutions.  The solution is aimed at Operators to help them quickly deploy services for the Digital Home. Etisalat will use it to deploy its new multi-play service ‘eLife’.

Sigma Designs has unveiled a new Ultra-Thin reference design for the set-top box market. The new solution combines networking and set-top box functionalities in one ultra thin platform.  According to Sigma design it enables set-top box platforms to stream high-definition content from the web, in 1080p resolution via networking through the AC power adapter. Core technologies include Sigma’s SMP8670 media processor and HomePlug AV with ClearPath and Z-Wave.

Cloud Engines has launched a mobile focus version of their PogoPlug range called Pogoplug Mobile. Schedule for general release next month; Pogoplug Mobile offers a new look with an emphasis on ease of use and mobility.  It is optimized for Android and Apple’s iOS based devices; and offers the flexibility to share and access your photos, music, movies and other digital content from anywhere and anytime.

Wyoming-based triple-play service provider, Tri-County Telephone (TCT) Association has selected Entone’s Fusion TV solution to offer hybrid TV services to its customers.  Already offing advanced digital TV with HD and DVR support, high-speed Internet and voice-over-IP residential services, TCT will now be able to offer a single point of interaction – the television.

Pace has announced its latest set of High Definition set-top boxes for the connected home. The new set-top boxes are expected to offer pay TV subscribers an advanced viewing experience. The boxes offer a number of flexible features to enhance users viewing experience and network setup options.  Operators are expected to benefit from the devices, which are accompanied by upgraded software, business consulting, specialised customer care call centre and product delivery services.

The connected home has become the new technology battle ground for the electronics and software giants; with a market stand to worth tens of billons of dollars, we are on the verge of a feeding frenzy. Today Google announced plans to acquire Motorola Mobility for $12.5 billion to become one of the biggest player in the connected home market. Bear in mind that it was just two months ago that Google abandon plans to continue to offer its PowerMeter service come 16 September this year. See why this acquisition is more than mobile phone and what is next?