The integrated software solutions provider Mirada has announced the commercial launch of Zapi, a new OTT-based Spanish pay-TV platform it has developed for Plataforma Multimedia de Operadores (PMO).
PMO was formed by local telcos and its cooperation with Mirada in producing Zapi was first announced on September 4, 2019. Since then, Mirada has been working to deliver content across PMO’s networks to existing subscribers through a pure OTT solution.
The Zapi OTT service allows subscribers to watch content through an app for smart TVs, laptops, and Android and iOS smartphones and tablets. More importantly, the solution is being provided to customers on Android TV set top boxes (STBs),. Utilising Mirada’s custom launcher for Android TV, consumers will not only benefit from Mirada’s Iris technology, but also from the advantages of an Android STB solution. Also, with the custom launcher being based on Mirada’s Iris and Zapi’s brand identities, rather than a generic user interface, both Zapi and Mirada will increase brand value.
Mirada’s say that this is biggest European launch of its Iris solution with custom launcher for Android TV STBs, and, over time, is expected to reach at least 600,000 subscribers.
All the features of Mirada’s Iris technology will be available across Zapi customers’ devices, including content discovery, catch-up, start-over, time-shift, personalised recommendations and cloud DVR. PMO will also have access to insights through LogIQ, Mirada’s data analytics platform.
Mirada also notes the project is in line with its bring-your-own-device (BYOD) strategy, which focuses on providing the Iris multiscreen technology across all major consumer electronics devices in order to serve demand for content on all platforms. Following the initial launch, Mirada will continue working to deploy PMO’s OTT service across more devices.
Commenting on the launch, José Carrillo, CTO of PMO, said: “The TV service that we are launching today represents a significant leap in the quality that our customers receive. From now on, they will enjoy our television however, whenever and wherever they want. The wide variety of devices supported by Mirada Solution improves the user’s experience since it is unnecessary to change from one device to another to enjoy the service. Also, Zapi is the first OTT television platform in Spain that, besides offering general content, focuses on local content, completely exclusive for the user”.
José Luis Vázquez, CEO of Mirada, added: “We are proud to announce yet another commercial launch of our Iris solution, this time with Spain’s PMO, owner of one of Spain’s largest TV platforms. Our ability to provide the customer with the solution for a wide range of devices, including Android TV-based STBs, is a source of particular pride. We are certain it will help Zapi to substantially differentiate itself from the competition, offering a product that is in high demand without compromising brand identity or the user’s experience. As our acclaimed Iris technology is being deployed in ever more markets across the globe, it is becoming increasingly recognised for its versatility and quality”.
