Asharq News: Delivering trusted EPG for a 24/7 global news channel

Asharq News, a multiplatform Arabic news service, chose Icareus Playout to manage its EPG data across satellite and digital platforms, ensuring a reliable viewing experience across the MENA region and beyond.

Asharq News offers a unique perspective on world events: 24/7 news and analysis through the lens of the economy. Distributed via satellite, television, and multiple digital platforms, it reaches audiences across the Middle East, North Africa, and international markets.

To meet its ambitious goals, Asharq News required a best-in-class EPG solution capable of managing its fast-paced programming and supporting a multiplatform distribution strategy.

Summary

Accurate and reliable Electronic Program Guide (EPG) data is essential for news channels. It not only helps viewers discover and follow content but also contributes to overall viewer satisfaction and loyalty.

Asharq News selected the Icareus Playout platform because of its proven reliability, modular design, and adoption by leading broadcasters across Europe and MENA. The solution provided Asharq News with a flexible, automated, and integrated EPG workflow that connects seamlessly with its broadcast traffic systems and online environments.

Product

Challenge

Asharq News needed to:

  • Manage 24/7 EPG data for a live news channel.
  • Ensure seamless integration with its BTS Traffic System.
  • Provide automated workflows to minimize manual intervention.
  • Distribute EPG data consistently across both satellite channels and digital platforms.
  • Guarantee reliability and flexibility to meet the high expectations of its audience.
“We always look to invest in, and partner with, reliable technology providers that have a proven track record in the field. Icareus Playout will undoubtedly enhance our viewers’ EPG experience across the MENA region.”
Omran Abdallah
CTO, Asharq News

Solution

Icareus delivered its Playout EPG platform, offering:

  • Modular, secure, and robust architecture for PSI/SI and EIT management.
  • Full automation of EPG workflows, tightly integrated with Asharq News’ BTS Traffic System.
  • Centralized management for EPG distribution to satellite and digital services.
  • Automatic XML output generation for online publishing.
  • Customization and flexibility to adapt to Asharq’s unique requirements.

This solution allowed Asharq News to focus on content delivery while relying on Icareus for reliable and accurate EPG management.

Results

With Icareus Playout, Asharq News achieved:

  • High-quality, accurate EPG data, improving viewer satisfaction.
  • 24/7 workflows, reducing operational burden.
  • Future-proof broadcast operations, supported by a modular, scalable platform.
  • Consistency across platforms, with synchronized EPG for both satellite and online audiences.
“High quality EPG data significantly increases viewer satisfaction and it is vital that our customers can rely on us to provide it. Icareus Playout offered Asharq News peace-of-mind to meet their high criteria for both delivery time and operations.”
Toni Leiponen
CEO, Icareus