BSkyB is in the process of downloading open source software to its installed base of over three million Sky+ HD receivers.
Unlike the majority of software upgrades made by Sky to its set-top inventory, the open source licences require the satcaster to notify customers that the download has taken place. Subscribers are notified with an on-screen message that refers them to a dedicated section of the Sky website.
Sky says that it has found a number of Open Source Software developments that provide capabilities that benefit the software used in the Sky HD box and in using the Open Source Software it believes its customers will benefit from the ongoing support of the Open Source community.
The website also includes a download of the open source components including the building environment.
It is not known if the open source technologies relate to the opening up of the Ethernet port on the Sky+ HD receivers ahead of the launch of the pull VOD service Sky Anytime+, scheduled to take place before the end of the year.
Earlier this month the Nordic Canal Digital platform introduced a set-top box running on the Linux software platform.
