FetchTV open to third parties

FetchTV, the hybrid DTT platform that is combining the BBC iPlayer with Sky Player and a proprietary VOD service, is to be made available to third party manufacturers.

Owner IP Vision has developed a partner programme for third party content and service providers. It has also brought in Cambridge-based ANT Software to integrate the FetchTV platform with Hybrid Broadcast Broadband (HBB) devices, building on the strength’s of the ANT Galio platform.

“We’re pleased to be working with IP Vision integrating FetchTV with the ANT Galio Platform. The FetchTV proposition is an exciting content extension to linear broadcast offerings and naturally complements the vision of the emerging hybrid profiles which are seeing such strong growth in markets such as the UK and Germany,” said ANT plc CEO Simon Woodward.

It is planned to support a number of manufacturers during 2010 that will enable access to FetchTV content on Freeview and Freeview HD devices.

In the New Year IP Vision’s own FetchTV SmartBox will add the Sky Player that provides access to content from Sky Sports, ESPN and Sky Movies. A version for Freeview HD is also planned.

“Delivering FetchTV on third party devices is the next natural step for us to ensure that IP Vision and FetchTV continue to lead in the UK over-the-top market, which is set to grow massively in the next five years,” said IP Vision CEO Eddie Abrams.

FetchTV is the only UK digital TV platform that offers premium over-the-top content without tying the consumer to a particular ISP. Arguably it is going some way towards providing the kind of services envisaged by Project Canvas.