Virgin Media teams up with Amagi and 24i to launch FAST channels

Virgin Media has tapped cloud-based broadcast tech outfit Amagi for its integrated solution to launch and monetise a new line-up of themed FAST channels on Virgin TV. 

A selection of 14 channels have been rolled-out to Virgin Media’s V6, TV 360, and Stream set-top boxes (STBs).

Harnessing the Appstage application framework within the 24i Mod Studio streaming platform – which is pre-integrated with Amagi’s playout solutions – the project introduced the FAST channels into Virgin Media’s Electronic Programming Guide (EPG) without making any changes to existing STB configurations. 

In partnership with technology partner 24i, Amagi, the app was configured to align with Virgin Media’s UX, facilitating a seamless integration of channels into Virgin Media’s EPG, providing an enhanced user experience for their customers on V6, TV 360 and Stream STBs running the RDK and Opera operating systems. 

Srinivasan KA, Co-founder and CRO at Amagi said, “Our collaboration with Virgin Media has been an excellent opportunity for us to showcase our technical prowess. Our achievement in integrating multiple FAST channels into Virgin Media’s STB environment through a unified gateway has significantly enriched user choice and paved the way for incremental revenues.” 

Donald McGarva, CEO of 24i and its parent company Aferian plc said, “This has been a real team effort to give Virgin Media’s customers access to a range of exciting new streamed content with a great user experience. The successful and seamless roll-out to a variety of device models already in the field is a testament to the powerful and flexible combination of 24i’s Appstage Big Screen client, cloud-based Backstage content management system, and Amagi’s unrivaled FAST solutions.”

Amagi provides a complete suite of solutions for channel creation, distribution, and monetization. Amagi’s clients include ABS-CBN, A+E Networks UK, beIN Sports, Curiosity Stream, Cinedigm, Warner Bros. Discovery, Fox Networks, Fremantle, Gannett, Gusto TV, NBCUniversal, Tastemade, and Tegna, among others.