3 Screen Solutions (3SS), a German provider of customised software solutions and services to the multiscreen digital entertainment industry, was selected by Germany’s largest cable operator, Vodafone Kabel Deutschland, to enhance the usability and functionality of its Select Video VOD service.
Building on system middleware already deployed at Vodafone, 3SS delivered software upgrades refurbishing the video-on-demand application. The task was to establish a high-quality VOD service that would be faster, with quicker start-up and speedier loading rates, as well as being easier and more intuitive to use, with a new interface to deliver an enhanced viewing experience.
The Select Video service comprises a variety of features such as a catch-up service offering content through Vodafone’s rights agreements with major broadcasters including RTL Group and ProSiebenSat.1.
A top priority set for 3SS by Vodafone Kabel Deutschland was the need for enhancements which would greatly encourage VOD content purchasing and therefore increase the potential for content monetisation. 3SS needed to deliver a more seamless and easier user process for purchasing content.
Through the new service structure and design, VOD users can now acquire a programme in three steps. Previously, up to seven interactions were required to complete a content purchase.
In the first step, Vodafone deployed the enhanced VOD service to its around 1.7 million subscribers with legacy digital set-top boxes. These boxes were manufactured by multiple providers including Technicolor, Sagemcom, Humax and Samsung. It will subsequently launch on boxes upgraded with newer firmware enabling access to the redesigned VOD application.
