Accedo, the Smart TV provider, has announced a partnership with NDS to enable pay-TV operators to launch their own app stores and explore new ways to monetise apps.
The solution leverages NDS’ set-top box (STB) platform, allowing operators to author applications that run inside an integrated HTML browser and take advantage of a comprehensive software development kit (SDK).
NDS’s Service Delivery Platform enables operators to deliver content that is contextual to what’s currently on the screen, improving the viewer experience and making app interactions more relevant.
“The combination of NDS software and Accedo’s application management experience will be a valuable solution for operators looking to embrace interactive TV,” said Michael Lantz, CEO of Accedo.
The partnership will be showcased at IBC 2012. Accedo plans to demonstrate a broad portfolio of applications running on the MediaHighway STB, highlighting the potential for richer interactive services on traditional pay-TV platforms.
NDS, a prominent video platform provider, was acquired by Cisco in late July as part of Cisco’s effort to expand its footprint among service providers.
Accedo has been active in forming partnerships as it advances its vision for smart TV. Earlier this week the company announced a collaboration with TiVo, the pioneer behind the first DVR (digital video recorder), to roll out multiple TV applications on TiVo’s platform.
That work will also be demonstrated at IBC, where Accedo will present a range of custom-developed apps across social media, casual gaming, news and video services, illustrating the variety of experiences operators can offer subscribers.
In July, Accedo partnered with Foxtel to provide a service for Australian consumers with Samsung Smart TVs that reduces the need for separate installation, contracts and a dedicated set-top box. While that initiative emphasises an integrated smart TV approach, the new tie-up with NDS reinforces the continuing importance of the STB in many operator deployments.
Michael Lantz, Accedo’s CEO, is scheduled to speak at Apps World in London on October 2–3, discussing trends and opportunities in TV app development.
Update 11 September: Michael Lantz noted that an operator-run app store will be “vital” to the pay-TV consumer offering.
“In a TV context, consumers expect a packaged and attractively bundled offering, which is a value the pay-TV operators will bring to the table,” he said.
“Pay-TV operators have deep insight into their customers, and Accedo will work with them to create compelling application offerings tailored to different audience segments,” he added.
Both Accedo and NDS believe this model represents a strong option for operators. The question remains: will operators adopt and effectively monetise app ecosystems on their platforms?
Learn more about the evolving landscape of TV applications at TV Hackfest, held at Moscone Center West in San Francisco on February 7–8, 2013.