5.6.2025, Helsinki, Icareus is proud to be a business partner in the new Finnish research initiative “Beyond the Limits of Post-Quantum Cryptography” (BLimPQC), which develops future-proof cybersecurity solutions in preparation for threats posed by quantum computing. For Icareus clients, this collaboration ensures that their video services continue to meet evolving security standards.

Quantum computing is transforming cybersecurity

Quantum computers are advancing rapidly and pose a major threat to current encryption methods, as they are capable of breaking many widely used cryptographic algorithms. This affects not only core infrastructure and financial services, but also digital content distribution, such as livestreaming, on-demand video services and broadcast management systems.

Cyber risks concern all sectors

Public sector

Quantum computers are advancing rapidly and pose a major threat to current encryption methods, as they are capable of breaking many widely used cryptographic algorithms. This affects not only core infrastructure and financial services, but also digital content distribution, such as livestreaming, on-demand video services and broadcast management systems.

Enterprises

Quantum computing significantly increases the risk of data breaches for companies. Protecting trade secrets, R&D materials, and internal communications requires proactive measures. Quantum-safe solutions can help prevent industrial espionage and support long-term competitiveness.

Media & entertainment

The entertainment industry must also prepare for emerging threats. Managing and distributing high-value content, such as movies and sports broadcasts, requires strong protection against unauthorized copying and distribution. Quantum-secure encryption ensures protection of copyrights and business interests far into the future.

Regulation is tightening

The United States is leading the way in quantum security regulation. In December 2022, President Biden signed the Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Preparedness Act, requiring federal agencies to inventory systems vulnerable to quantum decryption. These systems will be secured using quantum-resistant algorithms, such as those developed under the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

Our role in the BLimPQC project

As a provider of enterprise-grade video solutions, Icareus is participating in the BLimPQC project to ensure the future cybersecurity of video platforms and streaming services for both public and private sector clients. Our role focuses on secure video management, storage, and delivery use cases, especially in areas where privacy, compliance, and reliability are critical.

Key focus areas include:

  • Quantum-secure live streaming for events and video
  • Protection of media production and distribution workflows
  • Authentication and access control in video services
  • Readiness for future encryption standards

About BLimPQC

The BLimPQC project, coordinated by VTT, brings together leading Finnish research institutions and cybersecurity companies. It supports Finnish businesses in preparing for quantum-era threats and lays the foundation for future legislation and certification frameworks.

Research partners include VTT, Aalto University, University of Helsinki, and University of Oulu. Industry partners are Icareus, Ericsson, Bittium, SSH Communications Security, Xiphera, and Jutel. The project is advised by the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom), the Digital and Population Data Services Agency, and the Finnish Defence Forces. It is part of Bittium’s Seamless and Secure Connectivity Ecosystem under Business Finland’s Veturi program. The total project budget is €6.3 million.

Read more on the project website: pqc.fi

 

Helsinki, April 24, 2025 – Finland has welcomed a new streaming service for movies and TV series: Kotikino (eng. Home Cine), launched in April by Finnish company Nordic Content Distribution Ltd.. The service is built on the Icareus Video Cloud OTT solution.

Nordic Content Distribution (NCD) introduced its first streaming service Kirjastokino, aimed at public libraries, already back in 2019. It quickly gained widespread popularity and is now available in over 100 Finnish municipalities. However, the streaming landscape has changed. Many viewers feel that digital services have become too similar and often fail to offer anything truly interesting to watch. One reason for this is that most streaming decisions are made outside of Europe, leading to increasingly homogenized content and service models – leaving many films and genres out of reach.

Home Cine’s mission is to highlight and provide access to high-quality European movie and TV-series content.

“We’ve noticed that this kind of content easily falls into limbo while major international platforms take time to decide on their acquisitions. In addition, we plan to focus on other underserved genres, such as children’s films, anime, horror, and sci-fi, which also tend to be overlooked in many streaming services,” says the team behind the service.

At launch, Home Cine offers around 2,000 films, plus TV series and episodes. The catalog will expand weekly with new titles, meaning the service is constantly evolving.

One key advantage compared to many other platforms is that Home Cine offers both a monthly subscription and a rental model for individual films.

The platform is built using Icareus OTT platform, solution packed with versatile features that enable full management of the video service, including:

  • Uploading and migrating movies and TV series via a user interface or API integration
  • Video preparation, transcoding, categorization, and metadata management
  • Monetization through paid content packages and optionally advertisements
  • End-user registration and account management
  • Global content delivery via a robust CDN
  • End-user interfaces and video apps for various platforms
  • Analytics and reporting tools

In addition to the video platform, Icareus designed and developed Home Cine apps for iOS and Android. Smart TV applications will be released in the next phase of the service.

With Icareus Video Cloud handling the technical side, NCD can focus on content and building customer relationships instead of platform maintenance and development.

Home Cine is available on web at https://kotikino.fi and as mobile apps in app stores under the name Kotikino.

Nordic Content Distribution Oy is a Finnish company founded in 2019. It develops and operates the Kotikino (eng. Home Cine) and Kirjastokino (eng. Library Cine) streaming services. The company is privately owned, and its team has over 50 years of combined experience in the video and media industry across various companies and services. Read more: https://kotikino.fi tai https://www.linkedin.com/company/nordic-content-distribution/

Icareus Ltd is a growing and profitable Finnish company providing SaaS video cloud services. Our company serves customers from over 60 countries. Icareus OTT solution is a turnkey white-label video cloud solution for media, TV and content owners. It offers versatile tools for the production, management, publication and (optionally) commercialization of live streaming, videos and events.
More information: https://icareus.com/products/white-label-ott-platform/

Relevant material

Downloads & further reading

Additional materials regarding this article

More information about the Icareus OTT Solution

Icareus OTT Platform

Read more about our market leading Icareus OTT Platform from our website

As audience measurement systems grow to include vast amounts of data from Smart TVs, set-top boxes, and HbbTV devices, a key question emerges: Can we trust the data?

Traditional panel-based systems earned trust over the years by being transparent and built on solid statistical methods. But today, we’re dealing with data from tens of millions of devices, coming from diverse sources. To keep that same level of trust, we need new ways to make sure the data is accurate, reflects real audiences, and isn’t open to misuse.

Key approaches to ensuring trustworthiness

Here’s how the industry is addressing this important issue:

1. Calibration against panels

Even as big data takes a larger role, panels haven’t disappeared – they’re being used to calibrate and validate device-level data.

For example:

  • In the U.S., Nielsen still relies on its panel data to model demographics like age and gender, since this kind of information typically isn’t available from devices themselves.
  • This hybrid approach ensures that while millions of devices can tell you what was watched and when, panels still help answer the all-important question: who was watching.

2. Third-party validation & auditing

To maintain credibility, many measurement systems and data providers undergo independent audits or validation by third-party organizations. Some notable examples include:

  • The Media Rating Council (MRC) in the U.S., which audits and accredits measurement methodologies. Nielsen, for instance, lost its MRC accreditation for national TV ratings in 2021 but regained it after making improvements to transparency and accuracy.
  • AGF Videoforschung in Germany and AGTT in Austria have introduced HbbTV-based measurement alongside traditional panels and often rely on external technical audits to ensure data consistency.
  • BARB in the UK is actively exploring streaming measurement integration and works with independent partners to ensure its hybrid systems meet their rigorous standards.

These audits typically evaluate:

  • Sampling methods and representativeness
  • Data collection integrity
  • Device filtering and de-duplication
  • Privacy compliance
  • Transparency in modeling and reporting

3. Anomaly detection & filtering

Device data can be noisy or even misleading – for example, a Smart TV left on all day with no one watching, or a set-top box reporting phantom views due to firmware quirks. Traditional panels usually avoid these problems, as users are required to log in/out or interact during the viewing session.

To address these challenges, many systems now use:

  • Machine learning algorithms to detect and filter out anomalies
  • Cross-device matching to minimize duplication
  • Event validation, such as cross-referencing broadcast schedules or using Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) to fingerprint content, ensuring accuracy

4. Transparent methodology reporting

As measurement methods grow more complex, trust is built through transparency. Leading measurement providers now publish methodology papers, technical specifications, and change logs to keep broadcasters, agencies, and advertisers well-informed.

For example, Austria’s Teletest 2.0 project shared details about including HbbTV data, the scale of the data (1.1 million devices), and how it would be integrated alongside the existing panel.

This transparency helps demystify the process, boosting stakeholders’ confidence in using the data.

Why verification matters, maybe more than ever

With real financial decisions (ranging from ad spend to content commissioning) relying on viewership data, trust is non-negotiable. As data volumes increase and new collection methods emerge, so does the potential for error or manipulation. Independent audits, hybrid models, and transparent processes are crucial to ensure that the data behind billion-euro decisions remains reliable.

Relevant material

Downloads & further reading

Additional materials regarding this article

More information about the Icareus Audience Measurement

Icareus Audience Measurement

Read more about Icareus Audience Measurement

Related posts

One of my biggest doubts regarding DVB-I has been around the question of how and by whom the central service registry would be managed. 

Who would act as the reliable record keeper? How would the costs be divided among stakeholders? Who would decide which services are included in the registry? Could stakeholders in any market come to an agreement on this? 

Then I realized that this dilemma applies only to the horizontal market, if even there. Let me elaborate on this thought further. 

Managing service registries in DVB-I: horizontal and vertical market perspectives 


The most
critical technical component of DVB-I’s ecosystem is the service registry—a database that contains the available channels and services (including metadata like content descriptions, EPG data, and delivery mechanisms). The effective management of service registries can vary significantly depending on the market structure—whether it’s a horizontal market or a vertical one. 

Understanding how to manage service registries in both scenarios is key to unlocking the business potential of DVB-I. 

Key decision for your business case – delivery of the central service registry 


There are multiple ways to provide CE devices with the “link” to the central service registry, and the best approach depends on your business needs as a DVB operator or OTT player.
 

In short, the options are: 

  • Via DVB Broadcast: The broadcast signal (DVB-T/C/S) can carry service list descriptors as part of its metadata, which includes URLs to the DVB-I service registry. When a TV tunes into a DVB broadcast, it reads this metadata to find the URL of the service registry that will provide additional internet-based services. 
  • Pre-configured by Operator or Manufacturer: If you control the smart TVs or set-top box you could pre-configure URLs to the central service registry. When a TV is set up for the first time or when connecting to a network, it uses these pre-configured URLs to fetch available DVB-I services. 
  • DNS-based Service Discovery: The TV or client device can use DNS to discover the service registry. By querying a specific domain or subdomain, the device can retrieve the URL of the service registry from the DNS response, much like how web addresses are resolved on the internet. 
  • In certain network configurations, multicast announcements can provide the link to the service registry. Devices that are connected to the network listen for these announcements and use the provided URL to access the service registry and fetch service lists. 

In addition to a native DVB-I EPG application, an HbbTV/Op-app application broadcasted or downloaded onto the TV could be used to provide the UX to the end-user (in addition to the basic DVB-based service offering). This would also work on CE devices that do not natively support DVB-I. How about mobile or desktop devices? For these, the DVB-I service registry address would need to be configured within the application or web page settings. 

As shown above, DVB-I as a standard allows you to leverage it in various ways, depending on how you want to connect with your viewers. 

Horizontal market is more challenging 


By a horizontal market, I refer to a broad, multi-provider environment where various content providers or broadcasters coexist and compete. A typical example would be DVB-T countries with multiple multiplex operators, each managing their own channel lineups. In these markets, consumers may also have hybrid devices that support both satellite and IP-based services.
 

The primary challenge here is to ensure interoperability, consistency, and ease of access to channels across all providers within a shared ecosystem. The more players, the more hassle. 

In my opinion, competition is essential, and service providers (e.g., terrestrial versus satellite) should be able to differentiate themselves. Does it even make sense to have a combined service registry for a satellite, a terrestrial, and an OTT operator? Probably not, although some consumers with a dual-tuner STB would love it. 

Key aspects of managing a service registry in a horizontal market 


In a horizontal market, the service registry must support a wide range of broadcasters, each potentially using different content formats, delivery mechanisms, and metadata standards. As we all know, there are almost as many EPG formats, metadata descriptions, and content discovery mechanisms as there are players in the market. Aggregating these behind a single DVB-I service platform makes a lot of sense; the standardization that DVB-I brings would significantly aid this effort.
 

Each broadcaster and content owner can maintain their own service registries, which can then be aggregated in a standardized way to form a shared registry. This approach would allow users to discover services from multiple broadcasters within a unified EPG, thereby increasing the chances of content discovery. As mentioned above, managing such a shared registry requires close coordination between service providers to ensure timely updates, such as new channels or schedule changes. 

DVB-I aims to provide users with the best experience and the easiest way to find their favorite content. However, should users have the option to choose between different registry providers and content offerings? This brings us back to a fundamental question in business: who owns the viewers? 

Should CE device manufacturers offer end users access to multiple central service registries – one from the DVB operator, another from the CE manufacturer, and a third from the highest-paying OTT provider? 

Recent European DVB-I trials have attempted to address these questions. All of the latest trials have focused on the horizontal market needs within a single DVB platform, primarily DVB-T. The main stakeholders in these trials have been national broadcasters and terrestrial network operators. It is evident that the standard will be influenced by TV regulators and broadcasters, who intend to make DVB-I compatibility mandatory for televisions sold in their markets. However, it is important to note that DVB-I is equally effective for mobile and desktop devices. 

In the German trial, a key takeaway was the importance of managing service lists with regionalization in mind. The trial included an aggregation service that combines service lists from various broadcasters, enabling the formation of a national list while preserving regional variations in channel listings. The trial highlighted that broadcasters must implement HbbTV to fully leverage DVB-I’s capabilities, such as targeted advertising and accessible services.

The Spanish trial highlighted DVB-I's potential to enable more diverse content offerings. Broadcasters can introduce niche channels and services to attract various audience segments and monetize them through targeted advertising and subscription models.

In Italy, a hybrid approach is seen as crucial for the future of broadcasting, allowing viewers to access both live and on-demand content via a unified interface. Trials with Vestel and Mediaset demonstrated how DVB-I can complement existing broadcast networks by offering internet-delivered linear services in full HD and additional services utilizing HbbTV.

However, the key decision regarding who will manage the central service registry remains unresolved. If regulators succeed in mandating DVB-I for CE devices, I am confident that DVB operators will seek to become the registry controllers, as they have been for decades in broadcast networks. 

Vertical market service registry management 


A 
vertical market is one where a single operator controls most or all aspects of the content delivery chain, from content production and acquisition to delivery and user experience.  

For me, using DVB-I in a vertical market is a no-brainer. Why? 

First and foremost, DVB-I offers a standardized way for hybrid service management. Since vertical operators often control the end-user devices (such as set-top boxes or smart TVs), the service registry can be optimized specifically for those devices. Regardless of the device receiving the service list, operators can rely on a single EPG approach. This simplifies operations and creates cost savings while fostering a platform-agnostic approach. 

Vertical operators managing both traditional broadcast and IP-delivered content can integrate these services seamlessly within the EPG. This is a major benefit of DVB-I, as it enables operators to use their proprietary service registry to manage both types of content in a unified manner. The result is a smooth, cross-platform experience for users, eliminating the need to switch between apps or devices. 

With full control over the service registry, operators can create a more tailored and controlled user experience. This flexibility allows them to design a bespoke EPG that aligns perfectly with their brand and content offerings. The registry can be optimized for the operator’s specific platform, whether that’s satellite, terrestrial, or a hybrid IP solution (including mobile and desktop). 

Since operators typically have subscribers, there is significant potential to leverage user data for personalized EPG experiences, enhancing content personalization. The service registry can dynamically adapt to display tailored content recommendations based on viewing history, subscription tier, or user demographics, which can significantly boost viewer engagement and satisfaction. 

Additionally, vertical market operators can maximize their revenue potential by using the service registry to implement exclusive offers and premium content. For instance, pay-per-view sports events or subscription-based on-demand content can be prominently featured in the EPG. 

Operators may also control ad inventory, enabling them to implement highly targeted in-platform advertising campaigns based on data derived from the service registry. 

Personally, I see no reason for operators not to consider upgrading to DVB-I. This transition can be executed one device platform at a time, ultimately streamlining channel and service management in the long run. 

Conclusion 


The future of DVB-I hinges on resolving the central service registry management dilemma. Trials across Europe have highlighted its potential, but the key question remains: who will manage the central service registry? In a horizontal market – where multiple broadcasters and service providers operate – issues such as interoperability, stakeholder agreements, and service inclusivity pose significant challenges.
 

In contrast, in vertical markets, where a single operator controls the entire delivery chain, registry management is simpler. Operators can fully leverage the flexibility of DVB-I to create tailored user experiences, simplify hybrid broadcast management, and enhance personalized content recommendations, all while optimizing revenues through exclusive offerings and targeted ads. 

Ultimately, DVB-I is poised to improve user satisfaction by bridging the gap between traditional broadcasting and IP-delivered content. For DVB-I to succeed, especially in horizontal markets, strong cooperation and a regulatory framework will be necessary. Only then can the true business potential of DVB-I be unlocked. 

Read more about our DVB-I Platform: https://icareus.com/dvb-i/

Icareus Ltd is established 2001 and has a headquarters in Helsinki, Finland. Combining online and broadcast technologies have been the core of our activities over two decades, true pioneers some say. We’ve been making the change from linear TV to today’s multi-screen experience. Icareus solutions are enjoyed by millions of consumers via our broadcaster, operator, OTT and OVP customers in over 60 countries.

Icareus TV & Video Cloud and Icareus Playout, a trusted broadcast platform for EPG, Data carousels and OTA support solutions for HbbTV, OTT, TV Everywhere, Addressable TV advertising and Audience Measurement.

For more Information:                                                                                                  

Ms. Jessica Glad
Marketing
Icareus Ltd

Email: [email protected]
Telephone: +358 (0)9 2289 0801

Follow Icareus on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/icareus-ltd-

Helsinki, 04.09.2024 – Icareus is pleased to announce that it has been selected to provide its Icareus Playout platform for the DVB-T2 rollout in Bosnia and Herzegovina, in partnership with Odašiljači i veze (OIV) of Croatia.

OIV was contracted for the Project of Digitization of Public Broadcasting Services in Bosnia and Herzegovina, marking a significant step forward in completing the country’s Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) project, which has faced delays for nearly a decade. Icareus’ Playout technology will ensure reliable and efficient network management across the region, supporting the transition to modern broadcasting standards.

Following the successful completion of the first phase by OIV in 2016, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s DTT project is now entering its final stages. This long-awaited continuation will complete the second and third phases of digitization, enabling all citizens to access Public RTV services via the DVB-T2 digital platform. The entire system is expected to be operational by mid-2025, with most citizens gaining access to the new digital signal by the end of 2024.

Croatia’s OIV has been an Icareus Playout customer since 2016, making it a natural choice to continue the long-term partnership for this project. Icareus’ Playout EPG Platform will be used to manage the PSI/SI and EPG for the entire network.

“Relying on Icareus Playout was a logical decision, as OIV has already verified the Icareus Playout EPG server. It enables OIV to offer a better TV experience by efficiently managing channel line-ups and network parameters.”
Mr Nikola Perković
Head of Video Services Management Department, OIV
"We are proud to have partnered again with OIV to deliver a state-of-the-art EPG solution for the latest DVB-T2 deployment in Europe. This project exemplifies our commitment to innovation and quality in the broadcasting industry. By leveraging our Icareus Playout platform, the public broadcasters of Bosnia Herzegovina are finally taken into digital era!”
Mr Mikko Karppinen
Director, Icareus

Icareus Playout Platform has been in production since 2004 and is trusted by leading operators and broadcasters serving customers in 50 countries.  Icareus Playout product family includes Icareus Playout EP PSI/SI and EPG server, Icareus CS DSM-CC Carousel server for HbbTV and other Interactive TV standards, Icareus Playout DVB SSU server for over-the-air updates and Icareus Playout Compact Lab solution for research, development and testing TV services. For more information about solution visit: https://icareus.com/products/icareus-playout-broadcast-service-management-platform/  

Icareus Playout offers a versatile solution for monitoring and managing Electronic Program Guide (EPG) content, enhancing the overall television experience for viewers. Seamlessly integrated into the customer’s systems, the platform ensures high-quality, real-time EPG workflows that operate continuously, 24/7. 

Read more about the PSI/SI & EPG Generator: https://icareus.com/products/icareus-playout-broadcast-service-management-platform/epg-generator-server/

Read more about EPG monitoring: https://icareus.com/products/icareus-playout-broadcast-service-management-platform/epg-monitor/

Renowned globally as a broadcast solution, Icareus Playout has been selected by leading broadcasters and DVB operators across Europe and the MENA region. Notable customers include Arabsat, Asharq News, Arqiva, BVN, Dialog TV, DU, France24, Freesat, Mediaset, Persidera, Telefonica, Telenet, Telespazio, and RAI. The platform is praised for its modularity, security, and robustness, which enable seamless multichannel and network EPG data management. Icareus Playout supports unique configurations, including EPG data sources, EIT tables, PSI/SI descriptors, and bespoke setups tailored to specific operational needs.

Icareus Ltd is established 2001 and has a headquarters in Helsinki, Finland. Combining online and broadcast technologies have been the core of our activities over two decades, true pioneers some say. We’ve been making the change from linear TV to today’s multi-screen experience. Millions of consumers enjoy Icareus solutions via our broadcaster, operator, OTT and OVP customers in over 60 countries.

Icareus TV & Video Cloud and Icareus Playout, a trusted broadcast platform for EPG, Data carousels and OTA support solutions for HbbTV, OTT, TV Everywhere, Addressable TV advertising and Audience Measurement. More information: https://www.icareus.com

Odašiljači i veze d.o.o. (OIV) – With more than 95 years of tradition and experience OIV operates in the core of broadcasting and telecommunication industries, providing complete radio and television broadcasting services, audio-visual content and data distribution, fibre-optic lease, co-location as well as modern media services. More information: https://www.oiv.hr/

For more Information:  

Ms. Jessica Glad 
Marketing 
Icareus Ltd 

Email: [email protected] 
Telephone: +358 (0)9 2289 0801 

 

Follow Icareus on:  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/icareus-ltd- 

 

Helsinki, 15.08,2024:  Icareus, a leading provider of HbbTV (Hybrid Broadcast Broadband TV) solutions, has partnered with Persidera, the premier network operator in Italy, and Video Progetti, Italy’s #1 broadcast systems integrator, to bring state-of-the-art HbbTV-based services to broadcasters and publishers across the Italian market. This strategic collaboration aims to enhance the viewing experience for audiences and offer Persidera customers innovative tools to better engage their viewers.

The joint solution from Icareus, Video Progetti and Persidera leverages cutting-edge HbbTV technology, which seamlessly integrates broadcast and broadband content. This enables broadcasters to deliver a richer, more interactive experience to their audiences. This real-time access to viewing data allows operators and broadcasters to make informed decisions without the delay of waiting several days for panel-based metrics.

The offering includes a comprehensive suite of HbbTV applications and solutions, such as:

  • Audience Measurement: Accurate and real-time data collection to help broadcasters understand viewer behaviour and preferences, enabling more targeted and effective programming and advertising.
  • Electronic Program Guides (EPGs): Interactive and user-friendly program guides that make it easier for viewers to discover and access content.
  • Launchers: Customized launch interfaces that provide a gateway to various broadcast and on-demand services, offering viewers a personalized and streamlined content discovery experience.
  • Live Streaming: High-quality, uninterrupted live streaming capabilities, allowing broadcasters to reach their audiences on multiple devices, anytime and anywhere. In addition, niche audience and events can be served better via HbbTV channels instead of consuming broadcast capacity.
  • Radio: Integration of radio services within the HbbTV framework, offering users a one-stop solution for both visual and audio content.
  • HbbTV signalling: Persidera’s capability to provide advanced signalling to ensure accurate and versatile HbbTV application management as well as synchronization is guaranteed with Icareus Playout platform.

Central to the collaboration is the Icareus Video Cloud, a powerful OTT platform designed to manage and optimize the all the Live and on-demand video services including also tools e.g. for user experience (UX), Electronic Program Guides (EPGs), and HbbTV and other video applications. In this project it will empower broadcasters with:

  • User Experience (UX) Management: Tools to create and manage seamless, user-friendly interfaces that enhance viewer engagement and satisfaction. This allows broadcasters to design personalized experiences tailored to different audience segments.
  • EPG Management: A robust solution for managing EPGs, enabling broadcasters to effortlessly update program schedules and deliver real-time information to viewers. The Icareus Suite supports rich metadata and integrates seamlessly with other broadcast systems.
  • Application Management: A comprehensive platform for developing, deploying, and managing HbbTV applications, ensuring broadcasters can quickly and efficiently roll out new services and features. This includes the ability to launch and manage interactive applications such as quizzes, voting, and targeted advertising, enhancing viewer interaction.
"We are thrilled to introduce our advanced HbbTV solutions to the broader Italian market through this collaboration with Persidera and Video Progetti. By joining forces, we will equip broadcasters with the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive media environment, while elevating the viewing experience for audiences across Italy."
Toni Leiponen
CEO, Icareus

Persidera, with its extensive network infrastructure and deep understanding of the Italian broadcasting market, is the ideal partner to bring these innovative solutions to life.

"By combining our network capabilities with Icareus' expertise in HbbTV, we are enabling broadcasters to offer more interactive and engaging content to their viewers. This partnership represents a significant step forward in the evolution of television in Italy."
Guido Fermetti
COO, Persidera
"We are excited to play a crucial role in this partnership, leveraging our experience in broadcasting technology to help deliver these advanced solutions to the Italian market with our integration and post-sales support services."
Francesco Struzzi
Sales Director, Video Progetti

The alliance between these companies underscores a shared commitment to innovation and excellence in broadcasting. Together, they are poised to set a new standard for HbbTV services in Italy, driving the future of television and offering broadcasters the tools to stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry.

Icareus Playout Platform has been in production since 2004 and is trusted by leading operators and broadcasters serving customers in 50 countries.  Icareus Playout product family includes Icareus Playout EP PSI/SI and EPG server, Icareus CS DSM-CC Carousel server for HbbTV and other Interactive TV standards, Icareus Playout DVB SSU server for over-the-air updates and Icareus Playout Compact Lab solution for research, development and testing TV services. For more information about solution visit: https://icareus.com/products/icareus-playout-broadcast-service-management-platform/  

Read more about the PSI/SI & EPG Generator: https://icareus.com/products/icareus-playout-broadcast-service-management-platform/epg-generator-server/

Read more about EPG monitoring: https://icareus.com/products/icareus-playout-broadcast-service-management-platform/epg-monitor/

Icareus Ltd is established 2001 and has a headquarters in Helsinki, Finland. Combining online and broadcast technologies have been the core of our activities over two decades, true pioneers some say. We’ve been making the change from linear TV to today’s multi-screen experience. Millions of consumers enjoy Icareus solutions via our broadcaster, operator, OTT and OVP customers in over 60 countries.

Icareus TV & Video Cloud and Icareus Playout, a trusted broadcast platform for EPG, Data carousels and OTA support solutions for HbbTV, OTT, TV Everywhere, Addressable TV advertising and Audience Measurement. More information: https://www.icareus.com

Persidera – Persidera is the leader in the Italian market of media services for independent publishers. 100% of the share capital is held by the sole shareholder F2i TLC 2 SpA. The Company’s core business is the provision of DTT Network Transmission Service, hosting more than 50 Radio/TV channels on its 3 national Networks which cover more than 96% of the national population. The channel management services broadcast on its Networks are provided through a proprietary Headend infrastructure, constantly maintained at the most advanced state of technology and with reliability standards at the top of the market. For more information, visit: https://persidera.it/.

Video Progetti S.r.l. is a leading Italian company which has been working for over 20 years in the distribution and integration of professional equipment for television, cinema and telecommunications. Having offices both in Rome and Milan, Video Progetti is constantly in touch with the key players in these fields and participates in the development of the broadcast industry by offering our clients the most up-to-date production technology. For more information, visit http://www.videoprogetti.it.

For more Information:  

Ms. Jessica Glad 
Marketing 
Icareus Ltd 

Email: [email protected] 
Telephone: +358 (0)9 2289 0801 

 

Follow Icareus on:  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/icareus-ltd- 

 

Helsinki, 15.08,2024:  Icareus is happy to announce its new version of Audience Measurement solution at IBC2024. It will be showcased at the IBC2024 exhibition held in September in Amsterdam and is immediately  available as cloud service to our customers.

Connectivity is transforming audience measurement by enabling real-time data collection and more accurate insights into viewer behaviour. Icareus Audience Measurement solution offers TV operators, broadcasters, and other service providers tools to gather detailed information on how audiences are engaging with their TV channels. This data is collected in real-time directly from Smart TVs and set-top boxes. The solution supports multiple standards, including interactive TV environments like MHP and HbbTV, and is compatible with all major TV brands such as Samsung, LG, and Sony.

Traditional audience panels should be complemented, or even replaced, with direct, real-time data collection systems like Icareus Audience measurement, because they often rely on a limited number of devices, and thus can miss key insights. Icareus Audience Measurement collects data from all connected devices in the TV network, offering real-time insights that are far more comprehensive and reliable, even for niche channels on e.g. satellite platforms.

This real-time access to viewing data allows operators and broadcasters to make informed decisions without the delay of waiting several days for panel-based metrics. Additionally, Icareus can fine-tune panel sizes as needed to meet different cost and operational requirements, providing flexibility and efficiency.

All the data is presented in flexible, customizable Icareus Audience Dashboards that allows data analysists to customize their experience by modifying and building their own KPIs and dashboards. For full transparency and data management, all collected data can be exported to third-party data management platforms or enriched with additional third-party data, enhancing the usability, depth and value of the system. Our Analytics APIs help 3rd parties to exploit the platform to its full extend with their existing and in-house solutions.

Icareus Audience Measurement can be used in multiple use-cases to improve broadcasters and operators’ operations, viewer engagement and revenues:

  • Improving Viewer Experience by understanding viewer preferences
  • Advertising Revenue Optimization via improved viewer data for more precise ads targeting
  • Competitive Benchmarking to understand market share and channel performance
  • Content Development, Programming and Scheduling decisions by providing understanding which shows, genres and time slots attract the most viewers
  • Audience Engagement and Retention by analyzing the demographics, geographic and behaviours of audiences

Read more about the solution: https://icareus.com/products/audience-measurement/

Or if you are coming to IBC2024, please book a meeting with us: https://icareus.com/events-ibc-2024/

Icareus Ltd is established 2001 and has a headquarters in Helsinki, Finland. Combining online and broadcast technologies have been the core of our activities over two decades, true pioneers some say. We’ve been making the change from linear TV to today’s multi-screen experience. Icareus solutions are enjoyed by millions of consumers via our broadcaster, operator, OTT and OVP customers in over 60 countries.

Icareus TV & Video Cloud and Icareus Playout, a trusted broadcast platform for EPG, Data carousels and OTA support solutions for HbbTV, OTT, TV Everywhere, Addressable TV advertising and Audience Measurement.

For more Information:                                                                                                  

Ms. Jessica Glad
Marketing
Icareus Ltd

Email: [email protected]
Telephone: +358 (0)9 2289 0801

Follow Icareus on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/icareus-ltd-

In a digital world where visual and auditory content is taking over the screens, we must not forget the importance of captioning in terms of accessibility. Captioning is not just a nice-to-have feature, it opens the door for many people to participate in the digital world. This makes it a necessity for public actors, among others, to consider. 

People with hearing impairments, different language groups and people with learning difficulties benefit greatly from captions and subtitles. They enable people to understand sound-rich content regardless of hearing status or language barriers. At the same time, it improves search engine understanding and helps everyone find what they are looking for. When sharing your content online, remember to include captions – a small act with a big impact.   

A little effort to add subtitles means a huge impact on accessibility – it’s not just responsible, it’s smart business. But this effort is easy to reduce with today’s technology. Artificial intelligence opens new possibilities to make content accessible to a wide audience, and one major help is an intelligent AI subtitling tool. 

Traditional subtitling tools require manual work, which can be time-consuming, even expensive. This can prevent many content providers from paying sufficient attention to accessibility. Now, our intelligent subtitling tool, powered by artificial intelligence and included in our Icareus Suite video platform, offers a fast, accurate and cost-effective way to add subtitles to your video content. 

The interface of the Icareus automatic captioning tool. The tool can be used to provide captions for videos in Finnish, Swedish or English.

This AI-based tool can automatically convert spoken language into text. The resulting raw text is perfectly understandable and often good as it is, but may require cleaning up the filler words, stuttering and other word repetition that often occurs in spoken language. Nevertheless, using AI texting can reduce the resources required for subtitling by up to 90%! 

The captions created can be easily translated into different languages afterwards with our subtitling tool, allowing for the content to be understood globally. This means that the language barrier is no longer a barrier, and people with hearing loss and different language groups can enjoy your videos. 

Our subtitling tool, with a wide range of translation languages.

Smart captioning tools not only improve accessibility, they also save time and resources. They free up content producers’ time from creating manual subtitles and allow them to focus on the quality of the content itself.  

When your goal is to make your content accessible and reach a wider audience, don’t hesitate to use our AI subtitling tools. Icareus is ready to help you promote accessibility and make the world a place where everyone can participate. 

Related solutions

Related articles

The Benefits of AI Captions

The article highlights the role of intelligent captioning in increasing digital accessibility. Icareus’ AI-based captioning tool makes captioning fast and accurate, enabling it to reach a wide audience and saving time and resources.

Read more »

Related resources

Learn more about the solution, how it works, and how to use it on the Icareus Helpdesk.

Helsinki, 02.05,2024:  Telefónica Servicios Audiovisuales (TSA), the Telefónica Group company specializing in broadcast audiovisual services and solutions, has decided to enhance their operations by renewing their legacy EPG platform with Icareus Playout. As the largest privately-owned satellite teleport in Spain, TSA recognized the need for a modern, flexible solution to elevate their workflows, operations, and ultimately, customer satisfaction. 

The existing PSI/SI and EPG platform, integral to TSA’s terrestrial broadcasting services, reached its end-of-life phase, necessitating an advanced replacement. After a meticulous selection process, TSA enlisted the expertise of Icareus and their Spanish partner, QinMedia, to orchestrate a seamless migration and implement an optimized EPG workflow. 

Collaboratively, QinMedia and Icareus took on the challenge, constructing integrated workflows for TSA’s operations team. This strategic approach empowers TSA to center their focus on nurturing customer success and to furher develop their operations. 

"Partnering Icareus in this project has been a pleasure. TSA is a key customer for QinMedia and we had no other choice than offering them the undisputed leader solution in the EPG servers market. It has been proved to be the right choice."
Mr Roberto Martínez Morán
CTO at QinMedia

The Icareus Playout platform, a renowned global broadcast solution, has been chosen by prominent broadcasters and DVB operators across Europe and MENA, including notable names like Arabsat, Asharq News, Arqiva, BVN, Dialog TV, DU, France24, Freesat, Mediaset, Persidera, Telefonica, Telenet, Telespazio, and RAI. Renowned for its modularity, security, and robustness, Icareus Playout facilitates the seamless management of multichannel and -network EPG data. The platform facilitates unique configurations of EPG data sources, EIT tables, PSI/SI descriptors, and even bespoke setups to meet specific needs. 

"Icareus Playout has streamlined the process of creating services in a tree structure, as well as the customized configuration of other services such as text encoding, individual time setting or TTL for each transport, amongst others. This project has granted us greater flexibility, as well as an important personalized attention and professionalism from Qin Media team”.
Mr Julio López Pérez
Internal Support and Implementation Department at TSA

With the adoption of Icareus Playout, TSA takes a significant leap forward in optimizing their operations, streamlining workflows, and delivering enhanced customer experiences. This transformation underscores Icareus’ commitment to fostering excellence in the broadcasting landscape, solidifying TSA’s position as a leader in the industry.

Icareus Playout provides TSA with a versatile solution for managing its Electronic Program Guide, ultimately enhancing the television experience for viewers. Seamlessly integrated into TSA’s systems, Icareus Playout ensures a continuous, fully automated EPG content workflow, operating 24/7.

“At Icareus, we are thrilled to be part of Telefónica Servicios Audiovisuales' transformative journey as they renew their EPG platform with Icareus Playout. Collaborating with our partner QinMedia, we have ensured a seamless migration, enabling TSA to focus on customer success. The Icareus Playout platform, empowers TSA to efficiently manage EPG data, delivering a superior TV experience. This partnership exemplifies our dedication to elevating broadcasting standards and we are excited to continue contributing to TSA's leadership in the industry.”
Mr Toni Leiponen
Icareus’ Managing Director

Icareus Playout Platform has been in production since 2004 and is trusted by leading operators and broadcasters serving customers in 50 countries. Icareus Playout product family includes Icareus Playout EP PSI/SI and EPG server, Icareus CS DSM-CC Carousel server for HbbTV and other Interactive TV standards, Icareus Playout DVB SSU server for over-the-air updates and Icareus Playout Compact Lab solution for research, development and testing TV services.

More information: https://icareus.com/products/icareus-playout-broadcast-service-management-platform/  

Icareus Ltd is established 2001 and has a headquarters in Helsinki, Finland. Combining online and broadcast technologies have been the core of our activities over two decades, true pioneers some say. We’ve been making the change from linear TV to today’s multi-screen experience. Icareus solutions are enjoyed by millions of consumers via our broadcaster, operator, OTT and OVP customers in over 60 countries. 

Icareus TV & Video Cloud and Icareus Playout, a trusted broadcast platform for EPG, Data carousels and OTA support solutions for HbbTV, OTT, TV Everywhere, Addressable TV advertising and Audience Measurement.

More information: https://www.icareus.com  

QinMedia QinMedia represents the commitment of a group of professionals with a vast experience in the Broadcast and Telco market to fulfill the needs of an evolving market demanding the most technologically advanced and highest technical skills to support them. 

QinMedia is positioned as a Software and Hardware solutions provider wherever the added value constitutes a differentiating factor over other market alternatives. 

To the proven quality of the products distributed, QinMedia’s team tacks on consulting, implementation, commissioning, training and after-sales support. This approach entitles us to cover all aspects needed to ensure the success of systems or subsystems deployment projects within the broadcast environment. 

With a new technologies oriented vocation applied to the changing media consumption patterns, QinMedia stands for a trusted partner to join the customers in its technology migration journey.

More information: https://qinmedia.com/  

Telefonica Servicios Audiovisioales (TSA) is the Telefónica Group company that has been creating broadcast audiovisual solutions since 1993. With its headquarters in Spain and an office in Latin America, TSA stands out for its international character, offering broadcast and multimedia services and solutions worldwide. 

We provide end-to-end consulting, design, and integration for audiovisual projects. Our comprehensive solutions cover television production, innovative projects (including those based on AI), and services for video platforms such as DTH, IPTV, OTT, and channel broadcasting. In addition to project and services work, we offer training, coaching, and support at various service levels.  

Notably, we manage Spain’s largest fully private teleport, distributing over 700 television and radio channels, as well as providing internet access, Starlink, LAN, VoIP, and data services. 

Our extensive experience has been shaped over the years through the design, execution, and support of numerous projects for both our own company and our clients. We believe in customer orientation, innovation, and flexibility. Our commitment is to promote technological solutions that adapt to the ever-changing needs of the dynamic audiovisual world. 

More information: https://www.telefonicaserviciosaudiovisuales.com/en/ 

For more Information:  

Ms. Jessica Glad 
Marketing 
Icareus Ltd 

Email: [email protected] 

Telephone: +358 (0)9 2289 0801 

 

Follow Icareus on:  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/icareus-ltd- 

 

Telefónica Servicios Audiovisuales  

Noemí Pérez Villanueva 
MKT & COM 
Email: [email protected] 
Telephone: +34 630 95 30 89  

Relevant material

Downloads & further reading

Additional materials regarding this article

More information about Icareus Playout EPG generator server solution

Icareus Playout EPG

Read more about our market leading Icareus Playout EPG generator server solution from our website:

Helsinki, 02.05.2024 – IRR-TV, a leading pan-Christian media organization, is thrilled to announce the launch of its direct-to-consumer OTT service through the innovative platform, Permanto.fi. This step allows IRR-TV to seamlessly integrate its TV channel and other broadcasting endeavors into a dynamic, interactive, and user-centric digital space. Permanto.fi, the brand-new video portal, serves a diverse array of both live and on-demand content.

To achieve this remarkable milestone, IRR-TV joined forces with two industry veterans: Icareus and Digita. Icareus, an experienced player in the field of online video and TV solutions, partnered with Finland’s national terrestrial TV operator, Digita, to craft a comprehensive and cutting-edge solution for both live and on-demand content delivery. Digita, known for its exceptional performance in managing critical network infrastructure, effectively bolsters IRR-TV’s broadcasting and OTT services. The OTT video portal, hosted on the robust Icareus Video Cloud, is a pivotal component of this collaboration.

"We are proud to partner with IRR-TV in delivering an unparalleled OTT experience through Permanto.fi. Our Icareus Video Cloud, coupled with Digita's operational excellence, empower IRR-TV to connect with their audience in innovative ways."
Toni Leiponen
CEO of Icareus

Key benefits that Icareus Video Cloud offers to IRR-TV include:

1

Peace of Mind

The long-standing and successful collaboration between Icareus and Digita ensures that IRR-TV can deliver an uninterrupted, smooth, and reliable viewing experience for its audience around the clock.

2

Streamlined Operations

Leveraging Digita’s operational center and network expertise, IRR-TV benefits from a well-oiled machinery that keeps the content delivery process hassle-free.

3

Reliability

The platform’s robust architecture guarantees a reliable and stable streaming experience, minimizing disruptions for viewers.

4

Tailored & Comprehensive Solution

Icareus Video Cloud empowers IRR-TV with the flexibility to adapt to evolving audience preferences and market dynamics. The integration of Icareus Video Cloud enables IRR-TV to handle every aspect of content delivery, from VOD ingestion and transcoding to live channel management and EPG integration. The platform is optimized to cater to Tier 2 and Tier 3 TV channels and content owners, providing tailor-made solutions that fit unique requirements.

5

Cutting-Edge Technology

Permanto.fi’s OTT end-user portal boasts the latest technological advancements and advanced features, including features such as Airplay, Chromecast, and picture-in-picture capabilities, enriching the viewer experience.

The launch of Permanto.fi marks a significant milestone in IRR-TV’s journey towards expanding it’s audience beyond traditional terrestrial, cable and satellite networks. This pioneering venture exemplifies the organization’s commitment to providing unmatched quality, accessibility, and engagement for its cherished viewers across Finland and Internationally.

IRR-TV is a visionary pan-Christian media organization founded in 1986 and dedicated to delivering high-quality content that fosters spiritual growth, education, and entertainment. With a rich history of serving diverse communities, IRR-TV continues to redefine the way faith-based content is created, curated, and consumed. IRR-TV produces almost 1000 TV programs annually and broadcasts these through 16 satellite channels to different parts of the world. The programs appear e.g. in North Africa, the Middle East, and Central and South Asia. IRR-TV has printed a total of more than 8 million books, in 30 languages on 4 continents. More information: https://irr-tv.fi/

Icareus is a leading provider of advanced multimedia solutions, specializing in empowering broadcasters and content owners to deliver exceptional viewing experiences across a variety of platforms. With cutting-edge technology and a commitment to innovation, Icareus is at the forefront of shaping the future of video consumption via its Icareus Video Cloud. More information: https://www.icareus.com

Digita is Finland’s premier national terrestrial TV operator, renowned for its expertise in network infrastructure management and operational excellence. Partnering with key industry players, Digita delivers seamless broadcasting solutions that enrich the lives of millions of viewers nationwide. More information: https://www.digita.fi/

Permanto.fi is an OTT video portal developed through a collaboration between IRR-TV, Icareus, and Digita. This platform offers both live and on-demand content, re-defining the way audiences interact with Christian media content in Finland and internationally. More information:  https://www.permanto.fi/

Icareus Video Cloud is a turnkey white-label video cloud solution for media, TV and content owners. It offers versatile tools for the production, management, publication and (optionally) commercialization of live streaming, videos and events.

More information: https://icareus.com/solutions/broadcasters-media-ott/

Ms. Jessica Glad
Marketing
Icareus Ltd
Phone: +358 (0)9 2289 0801
Email: [email protected]

 

Follow Icareus on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/icareus-ltd-

Relevant material

Downloads & further reading

Additional materials regarding this article

More information about the Icareus OTT Solution

Icareus OTT Platform

Read more about our market leading Icareus OTT Platform from our website