EchoStar has signed an agreement with XStreamHD to stream HD entertainment in a 1080p format, delivered via satellite directly to homes. The service is using satellite capacity from the EchoStar-leased AMC-16 satellite at 85 degrees West.
Utilising Fixed Service Satellite (FSS) capacity from the AMC-16 satellite, XStreamHD is a push service, which automatically places content on the media server’s personal library based upon their unique user preference and distinct title selections. In order to use the over-the-top service, viewers need to buy a dish and a dedicated satellite receiver which will also act as a media server.
Starter packages cost $399.00 (€326.84) for Fast Start and $499.00 for Pro Start. On top of that, a monthly $9.99 subscription is required for the service. This does not include payment for content. The company as yet gives no details about the programming on offer, but on its website promises “an amazing selection of the highest quality HD movies, direct from the Studios.”
An internet connection is required to use the XStreamHD service in order to facilitate communication between the HD Media Server and XStreamHD’s back-end network. In addition to billing, many of the advanced library management features require communication between the HD Media Server and the XStreamHD servers.
XStreamHD was first announced in November 2007 and was demoed at the 2008 CES in Las Vegas on January 2008.
