Tag Archive for: EPG

Mikko Karppinen

Why DVB-I Specification Works and Is Crucially Needed for OTT Services

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We all know that the Internet is a wild west when it comes to the number of standards out there, while the broadcast industry has kept things a bit more controlled. Because of this, TV services have a 100% SLA, while streaming services usually have around 99% (or less) – a small but important difference.

Now, think about how many different ways there are to manage channel lineups, EPGs, and extra TV services like catch-up, restart, and SSAI. The answer? A LOT! And this is exactly where DVB-I steps in.

What is DVB-I all about?

DVB-I is a new standard that lets TV services be delivered over the internet, kind of like how broadcast TV works. It makes it easier for users to find and watch content, whether it’s delivered through traditional broadcast or online. Essentially, it adds something extra to regular broadcast services, giving broadcasters a hybrid option. This hybrid setup can really improve how content is delivered, discovered, and enjoyed by users. What makes DVB-I stand out from other internet-based TV services is its focus on making things as reliable as traditional broadcast TV, while also giving users a great experience.

DVB-I works on all device types, with the same registry capable of managing mobile and desktop as well. So, don’t limit your thinking to just DVB networks.

Technical executive summary

To put it simply, DVB-I is all about making hybrid broadcast and broadband content work together smoothly.

Put less simply, here’s how it works and what it offers:

  • Service Lists collect and share information about both broadcast and IP services. These lists are put together by broadcasters and content owners, combining TV channels and streaming content into one place. This is key for the hybrid model DVB-I supports.
  • Service Discovery and Selection happen through the Centralized Service Registry (CSR). The CSR takes all these individual Service Lists and brings them together into one big, easy-to-access list. This ensures users always have up-to-date service info. When clients check out the registry, they get the details they need to tune into services, whether over the internet or through traditional broadcast.
  • Logical Channel Numbering (LCN) keeps things simple by giving channels a consistent number across both broadcast and IP services. Even when services switch from one to the other, the LCN ensures channel numbers stay the same. This helps keep the traditional TV experience intact while introducing new tech.

DVB-I also adjusts service info based on where users are or what kind of device they’re using. This means viewers only see the content that’s available to them, without getting frustrated by options that don’t work.

Finally, DVB-I works well with HbbTV (Hybrid Broadcast-Broadband TV), which lets users access interactive features like on-demand content and targeted ads. By 2026, more than half of European households will be reachable through HbbTV. By the end of this year, around 97 million households will be connected, making it the largest TV platform for advertisers.

Service Lists are key in providing flexibility, expansion and reach

Earlier, we talked about how Service Lists are central to DVB-I. But let’s dive a bit deeper into how they work.

The Service List Discovery (SLD) mechanism is key to how DVB-I operates. It pulls together a mix of TV services, whether they’re delivered via broadcast, broadband, or both. These lists carry the metadata that makes it easy for users to find and access content across different platforms.

Each service in the list includes key details like the channel name, service ID, transport protocol info (DVB, MPEG-DASH, HLS), EPG data, language options, and region availability.

Broadcasters can use both static and dynamic service lists. Static lists are great for consistent channels, while dynamic lists adjust based on location, bandwidth, or user preferences. All these service lists are brought together by the central service registry. In horizontal markets, this registry might be run by a government body, and in vertical markets, it’s usually the operator managing it. (More on that here.)

What really sets DVB-I apart is its ability to combine traditional broadcast channels with internet-streamed content in a single hybrid service list. This hybrid approach gives viewers a smooth and unified experience.

HbbTV: adding value and monetisation

DVB-I works hand-in-hand with HbbTV (Hybrid Broadcast Broadband TV), a standard that combines traditional broadcast with IP delivery. DVB-I services can be paired with HbbTV apps, which allows interactive TV features like on-demand content, catch-up services, targeted ads, and more. This helps make DVB-I part of a bigger interactive ecosystem, offering more than just linear TV. Plus, HbbTV can be used to create DVB-I-based EPGs for a more personalised and branded user experience.

Streaming Services with MPEG-DASH and HLS

Unicast: From one to another device on the network. Efficient for single-device delivery.
Multicast: From one to many (but not all) devices on the network. Efficient for multi-device delivery.
Broadcast: From one to all devices on the network. Simple to implement, but inefficient.

DVB-I uses adaptive bitrate streaming technologies like MPEG-DASH (Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP) and HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) to deliver content over IP networks. Both multicast and unicast delivery methods utilise these technologies, with multicast being especially useful for large-scale events as it helps maintain network efficiency. On the other hand, unicast is used for delivering on-demand content.

A key challenge that DVB-I tackles is syncing IP streams with traditional broadcast signals. This is especially important for live events, where viewers expect minimal delays when switching between broadcast and internet delivery (like moving from SD to HD or even 4K).

Content Protection and DRM

DVB-I promotes Digital Rights Management (DRM) systems to safeguard content, including those used in HbbTV. While it doesn’t prescribe a specific DRM system, it ensures compatibility with a range of protection mechanisms to secure content and prevent unauthorised access.

DVB-I vs. OTT: Why DVB-I Matters

As the name suggests, Digital Video Broadcasting – Internet (DVB-I) offers the much-needed standardisation for delivering TV services over IP. It’s not just for traditional DVB networks—it can be used by any OTT platform offering linear TV channels. Now, it doesn’t cover things like how Netflix sets up its service or how broadcasters handle their catch-up content. But, it does provide a solid framework for managing linear channels, FAST channels, or live sports streaming. This was something the industry didn’t have before DVB-I!

For OTT providers, DVB-I offers a straightforward way to launch streaming services across all DVB networks that support it. Adding channels to broadcast networks is almost like plug and play—just add a new service provider to the central service registry, and boom, OTT channels are on-air, just like any broadcast channel.

In the end, DVB-I isn’t just for OTT; it’s about finally bringing standards to areas that have been missing them, and bridging the gap between broadcast and OTT services.

Conclusion: DVB-I Is More Than OTT

DVB-I represents a significant advancement in digital video delivery. It brings together traditional broadcast services and modern internet-based solutions into one unified system. With support for service lists, adaptive streaming, and hybrid delivery, DVB-I is set to play a big role in the future of television broadcasting. By blending broadcast and IP services, it helps broadcasters, operators, and OTT providers deliver a smooth, high-quality experience to viewers, no matter the platform or network.

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Mikko Karppinen

Why Operators and Content Owners Should Embrace DVB-I

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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-

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Jessica Glad

Icareus Launches Real-time EPG Monitoring Solution

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Helsinki, Finland – August 14, 2024 – Icareus, a leading provider of broadcast and streaming solutions, announces a cutting-edge EPG (Electronic Program Guide) Monitoring Solution as part of its Icareus Playout product platform. This new feature is set to enhance the accuracy, reliability, and compliance of EPG data management for DVB broadcast networks.

With the growing complexity of modern broadcasting, accurate EPG data has become essential for delivering a seamless viewer experience and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Icareus’ EPG Monitoring Solution is designed to meet these challenges head-on, equipping broadcasters and network operators with powerful tools for real-time oversight, error detection, and validation of EPG data across various channels and regions.

"We're proud to introduce our new advanced EPG Monitoring Solution, a feature that has been meticulously developed to address the critical needs of broadcasters. This addition to our Playout platform is the result of dedicated work to ensure that EPG data is not only accurate but fully compliant. It's a significant step forward in our ongoing mission to provide reliable, user-focused solutions that evolve with the industry's demands."
Mr Mikko Karppinen
Director, Icareus

Key Features and Benefits:

  • Real-Time Monitoring: Provides continuous monitoring of EPG data, enabling quick identification and resolution of discrepancies.
  • Data Integrity and Consistency: Ensures accurate and synchronized EPG data through validation and cross-verification tools.
  • Error Detection and Alerts: Automatically detects errors and sends real-time alerts, allowing for immediate corrective actions.
  • Multi-Channel Support: Monitors EPG data across multiple channels and regions.
  • User-Friendly Interface:  Intuitive dashboard, making it easy to manage and monitor EPG data.
  • Compliance and Security: Ensures full compliance with DVB standards and local regulations, backed by robust security measures.

Seamlessly integrated into the Icareus Playout platform, the EPG Monitoring Solution enhances an already robust suite of broadcast management tools. By combining content scheduling and EPG monitoring within a single platform, broadcasters can simplify their workflows, ensuring smoother operations and greater efficiency.

"Integrating the EPG Monitoring Solution with Icareus Playout makes it an even more powerful tool for broadcast management. Our customers now have a single platform that covers every aspect of their broadcast metadata workflow, from content creation to delivery."
Mr Mikko Karppinen
Director, Icareus

The EPG Monitoring Solution is now available as part of the Icareus Playout platform. For more information or to request a demo, please visit www.icareus.com or contact our sales team at [email protected].

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 the solution visit: https://icareus.com/products/icareus-playout-broadcast-service-management-platform/  

For more information about the Icareus Playout EPG server, visit: https://icareus.com/products/icareus-playout-broadcast-service-management-platform/epg-generator-server/

For more information 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

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- 

 

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Jessica Glad

Icareus delivered second Satellite TV EPG and Apps management solution to Telespazio

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Cover image Telespazio case

Helsinki, 12.09,2023: Telespazio, a global leader in satellite solutions and services, has strategically chosen Icareus as a trusted partner to enhance its broadcasting operations. Recognized as one of the world’s largest suppliers in Satellite distribution, Telespazio’s decision to utilize Icareus’ Playout underscores the exceptional benefits these solutions bring to their operations.

Icareus empowers Telespazio to optimize their EPG and HbbTV content management and distribution processes. The selection of Icareus’ Playout EPG and Carousel management platform equips Telespazio to efficiently manage and distribute critical EPG data and HbbTV applications directly from their Space Centre in Lario, Italy. This not only streamlines their operations but also ensures a seamless and engaging experience for their broadcasters’ audiences.

The enduring partnership between Telespazio and Icareus is a testament to the efficacy of Icareus’ solutions. The collaboration dates back to 2014, when Telespazio initially embraced Icareus’ EPG solution at their Rome Space Centre in Fucino. The longevity of this partnership showcases the consistent value and trust Icareus has delivered to Telespazio over the years.

By leveraging Icareus’ solutions, Telespazio gains a competitive edge in the satellite solutions landscape. The partnership enables Telespazio to deliver content and applications with precision, ensuring a heightened level of user engagement. Moreover, Telespazio benefits from the adaptability and scalability of Icareus’ technologies, enabling them to stay at the forefront of industry trends and technological advancements.

As a result, Telespazio can focus on what they do best – delivering exceptional satellite solutions – while entrusting Icareus to provide the tools necessary to effectively manage and distribute their EPG and applications.

Telespazio is the Italian leader and a major European player in radio and television satellite broadcasting, thanks to its facilities at the Fucino and Lario Space Centres and to the equipment installed and managed at clients’ premises.

Telespazio is over 60 years old company with over 3000 employees around the world and making 220 M€ sales (in 2022). The Lario Space Centre, operational since 1977, is located at the far North of Lake Como, at the town of Gera Lario. The Centre has 40 transceiver and 20 receiver antennas.

As a part of its services, Telespazio provides high quality satellite TV services to its customers including electronic program guide and HbbTV applications management services.

To further improve its services Telespazio needed a best-of-breed EPG solution to manage its customer’s programme information and interactive TV HbbTV applications. As Icareus has been a trusted and reliable vendor for Telespazio for almost a decade, Icareus Playout platform was selected to further develop and manage PSI/SI, EIT, HbbTV signalling, as well as object and datacarousels.

Icareus Playout platform is the leading broadcast solution in the world, selected by main broadcasters and DVB operators in Europe and MENA including Arabsat, Asharq News, Arqiva, BVN, Dialog TV, DU, France24, Freesat, Mediaset, Persidera, Telefonica, Telenet, Telespazio, RAI etc.  

Icareus Playout is a modular, secure and robust broadcast platform for managing multichannel and network EPG data. It enables distinctive configuration of EPG data sources, EIT tables, PSI/SI descriptors, and allows even custom configurations.

Icareus Playout allows Telespazio to manage its Electronic Program Guide in a flexible manner to offer a better TV experience to its viewers. Icareus Playout is tightly integrated to Telespazio’s systems to provide a seamless 24/7 fully automated EPG content workflow. In addition to as a part of the delivery is Icareus Playout Carousel, which offers a long list of features including HbbTV DSM-CC object and data carousel support, AIT management for both broadcast and broadband applications, accurate synchronization of hybrid TV applications with the broadcast signal via stream events, flexible descriptor management, and many more.

“We at Icareus highly appreciate our long-lasting relationship and co-operation with Telespazio. We are extremely glad about widening our business relationship with our old customer, with new solution.”

Toni Leiponen
Toni Leiponen
CEO, Icareus Ltd​

Icareus Playout EPG solution offers Trusted Broadcast Technology enjoyed by leading broadcasters and operators globally for over a decade. Icareus Playout EP110 server is a full-scale PSI/SI generator server targeted for operators and broadcasters to manage their DVB multiplexes and channel line–ups. The tested integrations to multiplexes, EPG data providers, network management systems and Icareus Suite enable quick deployment and high reliability. Icareus global reseller and systems integrator partners offer high service levels and peace-of-mind to our customers.

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 SSU server for over-the-air updates and Icareus Playout Compact Lab solution for research, development and testing TV services. Icareus Playout solutions have been deployed in broadcasting production since 2004 is trusted by world leading TV operators and broadcasters serving customers in 50 countries like SES (Luxemburg), Arabsat (UAE), Cyfrowy Polsat (Poland), NovaTV (Czech) Mediaset (Italy).

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 a decade, true pioneers some say. We’ve been making the change from linear TV to today’s multi-screen experience. Icareus’ customizable end-user apps provide unique TV experience with economical service launch and maintenance on any device. Icareus solutions are enjoyed by millions of consumers via our broadcaster, operator, OTT and OVP customers in over 60 countries. Icareus provides cloud solutions for TV and video services and trusted broadcast EPG, Carousel, OTA and Lab head-end products. Our platforms support solutions for HbbTV, OTT, TV Everywhere, Addressable TV advertising and Audience Measurement.

Telespazio is a joint venture between Leonardo (67%) and Thales (33%) and one of the world’s biggest suppliers of satellite solutions and services. The company teams up with Thales Alenia Space to form the parent companies’ Space Alliance, a strategic partnership which offers a complete range of space services.

 

Founded in Italy in 1961, Telespazio is based in Rome and counts more than 3000 employees through its various subsidiaries and joint ventures. Currently Telespazio has presence in 15 countries and it has 13 companies around the world.

For more Information: 

Ms. Jessica Glad 

Marketing & Communications
Icareus Ltd 
Email: jessica.glad[at]icareus.com 
Phone: +358 (0)9 2289 080

Follow Icareus

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Jessica Glad

ZoneSystems delivered Icareus Playout EPG solution to RTB in Brunei

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Read 10 reasons why Icareus EPG is the best solution for RTB

Helsinki, 07.09.2023, Icareus’ Malesia based partner Asia Pacific Zone Systems Sdn Bhd has delivered Icareus Playout EPG platform to Radio Television Brunei, a national television and radio broadcaster. 

RTB is a loyal customer of Icareus and they have been using Icareus Playout platform for Electronic Program data management and distribution as well as Data and Object Carousels since 2010. They now selected the new latest version of Icareus’ Playout EPG Platform to replace the old system for managing PSI/SI information and electronic program data for their national network.   

Icareus Playout is a modular, secure and robust broadcast platform for managing multichannel and network EPG data. It enables distinctive configuration of EPG data sources, EIT tables, PSI/SI descriptors, and allows even custom configurations.  

The top 10 reasons why Icareus Playout EPG is the best solution for RTB are: 

  1. Enhanced User Experience: The new version of Icareus’ Playout EPG Platform promises to elevate the TV viewing experience for RTB’s audience. With improved PSI/SI information management and precise electronic program data distribution, viewers can enjoy accurate and up-to-date content schedules, leading to greater satisfaction and engagement. 
  2. Seamless Transition: Upgrading to the latest version of Icareus’ Playout EPG Platform provides a seamless transition for RTB. The familiarity RTB has with Icareus as an existing customer ensures a smoother adoption process and reduces potential disruptions in their broadcasting operations. 
  3. Cutting-Edge Features: The new version of Icareus’ Playout EPG Platform brings cutting-edge features that empower RTB to stay ahead in the broadcasting industry. These features might include advanced data manipulation capabilities, real-time updates, and more sophisticated customization options. 
  4. Flexibility and Customization: Icareus Playout offers the flexibility to tailor EPG data sources, EIT tables, PSI/SI descriptors, and other configurations to match RTB’s specific requirements. This level of customization ensures that RTB can adapt the platform to its unique broadcasting needs. 
  5. Reliability and Robustness: RTB’s trust in Icareus Playout EPG server’s reliability and robustness underscores its reputation as a dependable solution. The platform’s stability and resilience contribute to uninterrupted broadcasting, reducing downtime and enhancing RTB’s credibility among its audience. 
  6. Efficient Network Management: By choosing Icareus Playout, RTB gains a powerful tool for managing its channel lineups and network parameters efficiently. This efficiency not only saves time and resources but also allows RTB to respond quickly to changes in the broadcasting landscape. 
  7. Streamlined Operations: Icareus Playout’s modular design streamlines RTB’s operations, making it easier to manage multichannel and network EPG data. This efficiency can lead to improved resource allocation and optimized workflows for RTB’s broadcasting team. 
  8. Future-Proof Solution: Icareus Playout’s commitment to staying at the forefront of broadcasting technology ensures that RTB is investing in a future-proof solution. As the broadcasting industry evolves, RTB can rely on Icareus to continue providing updates and innovations that keep their operations up to date. 
  9. Competitive Advantage: By leveraging Icareus’ state-of-the-art Playout EPG Platform, RTB gains a competitive edge in delivering high-quality TV experiences. This advantage can help RTB attract more viewers and maintain its position as a leading broadcaster in its market. 
  10. Dedicated Customer Support: As an established customer of Icareus, RTB benefits from a strong customer support network. Any queries, concerns, or technical issues can be promptly addressed, minimizing disruptions and ensuring a smooth broadcasting process. 

Relying on Icareus Playout was a natural choice as RTB had verified Icareus Playout EPG server to be the best, most robust and feature rich platform in the market. It enables RTB to offer better TV experience to its broadcaster customers and TV viewers while managing the channel lineups and network parameters in the most efficient way possible. 

"As a system integrator company, we are constantly in search of a reliable and efficient solution that align with our client’s requirement, and Icareus exceeded our expectations in every way."

Asia Pacific Zone Systems Sdn. Bhd.

Icareus Playout platform is the leading broadcast solution in the world, selected by main broadcasters and DVB operators in Europe and MENA including Arabsat, Asharq News, Arqiva, BVN, Dialog TV, DU, France24, Freesat, Mediaset, Persidera, Telefonica, Telenet, Telespazio, RAI etc. It has been in production since 2004.  

“We at Icareus are always happy when our existing customers renew their trust in us and want to extend the collaboration and use our products in new deployments. It is a testament to the quality of Icareus products and the service we offer. We see this as the highest award we can receive.”

Toni Leiponen
Toni Leiponen
CEO, Icareus Ltd​

Icareus Playout EPG solution offers Trusted Broadcast Technology enjoyed by leading broadcasters and operators globally for over a decade. Icareus Playout EP110 server is a full-scale PSI/SI generator server targeted for operators and broadcasters to manage their DVB multiplexes and channel line–ups. The tested integrations to multiplexes, EPG data providers, network management systems and Icareus Suite enable quick deployment and high reliability. Icareus global reseller and systems integrator partners offer high service levels and peace-of-mind to our customers.

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 SSU server for over-the-air updates and Icareus Playout Compact Lab solution for research, development and testing TV services. Icareus Playout solutions have been deployed in broadcasting production since 2004 is trusted by world leading TV operators and broadcasters serving customers in 50 countries like SES (Luxemburg), Arabsat (UAE), Cyfrowy Polsat (Poland), NovaTV (Czech) Mediaset (Italy).

Radio Television Brunei (RTB), (Malay: Radio Television Brunei, Jawi: راديو تيليۏيشين بروني,) is the national public broadcaster of Brunei. Radio Brunei made its first broadcast on 2 May 1957, with a television service starting on 1 March 1975. Currently, it operates 3 television channels and 5 radio stations.

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 a decade, true pioneers some say. We’ve been making the change from linear TV to today’s multi-screen experience. Icareus’ customizable end-user apps provide unique TV experience with economical service launch and maintenance on any device. Icareus solutions are enjoyed by millions of consumers via our broadcaster, operator, OTT and OVP customers in over 60 countries. Icareus provides cloud solutions for TV and video services and trusted broadcast EPG, Carousel, OTA and Lab head-end products. Our platforms support solutions for HbbTV, OTT, TV Everywhere, Addressable TV advertising and Audience Measurement.

Asia Pacific Zone Systems Sdn Bhd (APZS) is a premier provider and integrator of commercial satellite, terrestrial and broadcast / media transmission solutions, maintaining readiness and providing daily operational services to customer’s systems worldwide.

For more Information: 

Ms. Jessica Glad 

Marketing & Communications
Icareus Ltd 
Email: jessica.glad[at]icareus.com 
Phone: +358 (0)9 2289 080

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