Etisalat taps Synamedia for SwitchTV streaming launch

UAE-based service provider Etisalat has tapped Synamedia’s cloud TV capability for the launch of its new direct-to-consumer streaming offering SwitchTV.

The new service is based on Synamedia’s Infinite cloud TV platform and video network portfolio.

Etisalat is leaning on Synamedia’s technology to deliver a multi-screen service with both free and premium live TV channels, catch-up and on-demand.

Synamedia said that its private CDN was of particular importance in, allowing Etisalat to leverage its infrastructure and private cloud solutions to deliver content to large audiences.

The tech company said that it was enabling Etisalat to offer a choice of SwitchTV subscription packages and different movie rental models. Users can also benefit from a personalised viewing experience and use Synamedia’s cloud DVR offering to record programs in the cloud and watch them on any of their devices. Synamedia also supports Etisalat’s multi-language requirements with channels offering Arabic, Western and Asian content.

Etisalat is deploying Synamedia’s end-to-end video network, which the company says will enable it to reduce latency from encoding through to the CDN and player while also minimising bandwidth requirements.

Infinite is pre-integrated with Evergent’s revenue and customer lifecycle management platform.

Switch TV is available to UAE residents for AED2.99 a day, bringing a mix of Arabic, Asian and Western TV channels on a large on-demand library, with around 10,000 hours of content available from the likes of  StarzPlay, MBC, Eros Now, Fox, Walt Disney, Warner Bros., NBC Universal, Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures, e-junior, ART, Zee and the BBC.

The service is currently available on iOS and Android devices with availability on TV to follow.

“The SwitchTV OTT service represents a step change for the residents of UAE. Thanks to our comprehensive solution, Etisalat has a flexible offering that appeals to a broad range of audiences – from those looking for free programmes, to those wanting premium live experiences or to rent movies. Users have started downloading the apps and feedback on the quality of experience and features is extremely positive,” said Yves Padrines, Synamedia CEO.

“SwitchTV is a game-changer for viewers across the region.  Evergent complements the Synamedia service with pre-integrated, advanced and innovative monetisation options that contribute to a seamless customer journey. Evergent is thrilled to be part of Etisalat’s digital transformation strategy with SwitchTV,” said Vijay Sajja, Evergent founder and CEO.