T-Mobile Netherlands has selected Ericsson to provide the online video platform for the new over-the-top (OTT) TV service, Knippr.
The multi-year deal will see Ericsson provide a complete end-to-end online video service, including content management and preparation, digital rights management and content delivery networks (CDN). T-Mobile launched the service in beta last May, and has been commercially available since JUne.
Ericsson will deliver a wide selection of linear TV channels over-the-top both live and on demand. The next-generation TV service is compatible with Chromecast and Apple TV and is available as a video player via a web browser and as an app for tablets and smartphones.
As part of the deal, Ericsson will also provide metadata services to enrich the EPG of the new OTT TV service and further enhance the user experience.Ericsson’s global content discovery portfolio spans more than 10 million movies and program titles covering over 35 languages. Globally more than 200 million people interact with Ericsson’s rich metadata each week.
“Today’s consumers want to have control over the services and content that they purchase and pay for. Our new, cable free, interactive TV service provides everyone in the Netherlands with the opportunity to select their own additional channels of interest, on top of Knippr Basis, and to watch content wherever and whenever they want, on the screen of their choice,” said Johan Trouwborst, VP, Knippr.
“People are no longer stuck with the expensive combination packages containing large channel packages with dozens of channels people never watch, but do pay for. Knippr offers ultimate freedom of choice. With the technology and knowledge of Ericsson, we have been able to introduce an innovative TV service that allows consumers to have access to the best ‘a la carte’ TV content possible.”
“The way audiences watch content has changed dramatically and it is now more important than ever before to ensure that content is easily available anytime, anywhere and on any device<" said Thorsten Sauer, Head of Broadcast and Media Services, Ericsson. "Our managed service takes away the complexities and challenges of deploying internet-delivered catch-up and online TV services to every connected device, and lets our customers focus on the core of their businesses - quality content and a great consumer experience. We are proud to work with T-Mobile Netherlands on their next-generation TV service."
