Dutch cable operator Ziggo is exploring possibilities for introducing Common Interface solutions. The company is currently talking to a number of hardware suppliers and conditional access provider Irdeto, according to a spokesperson.
Ziggo, which comprises the old Casema, Multikabel and @Home networks, is the largest operator in The Netherlands with about 3.4 million homes connected. It employs the retail model for its digital TV service; consumers have to buy their own equipment, which is certified by the operator. A few weeks ago, Ziggo said it had reached one million digital homes.
One possibility is for Ziggo to adopt the CI-plus standard, that German cable companies are now contemplating. The operator is also looking to offer consumers multi-room solutions,. At the moment, only one smart card per home is issued. The plan is to offer more cards per household at reduced prices.
