ANGA Cable 2010. Further details have emerged of the new Unitymedia HD receiver that has been launched alongside its new five-channel line-up.
Broadband TV News has learnt the chasis design for the receiver came from the operator itself. However, the ‘insides’ were created by Echostar, representing the most significant win for the manufacturer since its return to the European market.
Another technology choice for Unitymedia has been the use of the MHP application programming interface – a selection touted by former managing director Palm Sandhu during last year’s ANGA Cable event. The MHP engine has been supplied by Alticast while applications have been developed by the Belgian Zappware. Curiously, despite carrying a built-in hard drive, the PVR functionality will be downloaded at a later stage.
Already confirmed has been the remote control manufacturer ruwido.
However, despite the stella line-up of technology partners, doubts are already being cast over the longevity of the box, should new owner Liberty Global exert its influence. A spokesman for the operator would only say that it constantly evaluated the cost base across its network.
Although Liberty Global affiliate Telenet also uses MHP, it is OpenTV that provides UPC’s standard middleware.
