Canal Digital is close to introducing a new Linux-based application that will bring in a new video-on-demand service for its satellite and cable customers. The initial plans were first revealed to Broadband TV News last November by Telenor Broadcast Holding CEO Christian Albech in an exclusive interview.
Already the Telenor-owned operator is running a broadband TV test for 5,000 of its premium DTH customers, offering a selection of 500 movies over the internet. The online proposition offers films to rent and will be extended to the entire customer base later this year.
The DTH launch will take advantage of the existing hardware within the set-top box and will initially be made available to customers with Canal Digital’s HD PVRs. The hybrid technology will also be used in Canal Digital’s now standard HD receivers.
The commercial launch will be extended to both DTH and cable customers.
Canal Digital has come under pressure from rival Viasat, which in addition to a successful online portal, also delivers on demand content through its set-top boxes using NDS Progressive Download technology.
