Ziggo enters ActiveVideo’s cloud

Ziggo will deploy ActiveVideo Networks’ CloudTV platform. The Dutch company will use the system to deliver services to existing set-top boxes.

Ziggo this year began providing interactive services on set-tops from Humax. The initial deployment will include video-on-demand (VOD) navigation and guide functionality, including enhanced search, discovery and previews.

Ziggo will use the ActiveVideo CloudTV H5 platform to enable a consistent user experience to its subscribers, ActiveVideo said. That statement and the mention that Ziggo’s “initial” deployment is for set-tops both imply that Ziggo is expecting to expand the service beyond currently installed set-tops.

Ziggo is, for example, using CI+, the standard that enables secure delivery of video to smart TVs and other devices. CI+ is supported by ActiveVideo.

“Service providers deploying advanced navigation, guides and other content need long-term, flexible solutions that will support any current or future device,” said Ronald Brockmann, managing director for ActiveVideo Networks in Europe. “The selection of CloudTV will allow Ziggo to deliver rich, engaging services without replacing existing set-top boxes.”

ActiveVideo Networks is demonstrating a beta version of the Ziggo VOD interface, as well as navigation UIs that are in trial with Comcast in the United States, on the CloudTV H5 platform at IBC.