Freesat and SeaChange debut connected TV platform

UK satellite service Freesat has partnered with TV software and services provider SeaChange to create a new connected TV platform aimed at service providers.

The platform integrates Freesat’s next-generation Freetime electronic program guide (EPG) with SeaChange’s Adrenalin multi-screen television platform.

The jointly developed service will enable IPTV, satellite, cable and terrestrial operators to customise and deploy a connected TV service on set-top boxes and smart TVs – including an advanced TV guide with catch-up and recommendation services.

“Freesat’s Freetime has been extremely successful since we launched the service in September 2012, with Freetime boxes now accounting for over 45% of all Freesat set-top box sales. Freetime is also a key driver of the growth of Freesat in the UK with consumers choosing to purchase Freetime enabled-boxes and smart TVs to access the superior experience this delivers,” said Freesat’s chief technology officer, Matthew Huntingdon.

“Freetime is based on open web technologies such as html, making it a compelling proposition for service providers. This partnership with SeaChange means we can now take an end-to-end TV platform to the market that offers the comprehensive features set and customer benefits that Freetime provides.”

Andrei Noppe, senior vice president and general manager EMEA and APAC at SeaChange said: “The Freetime guide has been proven to drive significant subscriber attraction and stickiness. By offering this powerfulguide in concert with SeaChange’s software and services, Freesat and SeaChange are helping service providers to reinforce their value and grow revenues with a fully-managed platform for advanced television capabilities.”

Freesat is a joint venture between the UK’s leading broadcasters ITV and the BBC and is now in over 1.85 million homes.

Seachange will exhibit at IBC on stand 1.F70