CommScope is to provide Android TV set-top boxes as part of Orange Belgium’s upgrade of its TV service.
Orange announced the upgrade last week but did not reveal the identity of its chosen manufacturer. We also know Belgian developer Zappware contributed to the deployment through its AndroidTV Operator Tier solution.
The new set-top includes new integrated apps for local broadcasters VRT NU, RTBF Auvio, VTM GO and RTL Play.
“There is no doubt that the viewing habits of our subscribers have evolved and that means our services and devices must evolve as well,” said Thomas Parvais, Director Fixed Access Broadband & TV Services, Orange Belgium. “Through our partnership with CommScope, we are excited to offer our subscribers with a state-of-the-art set-top that enhances their live and premium streaming entertainment viewing and provides them with the services they have come to expect.”
The Android decoders also feature Chromecast capabilities and a new cloud-based multi-screen TV recording service. Customers from the same household will be able to access their recordings from any device, whether on TV or via the Orange TV Plus app (smartphones, tablet, app).
Other features include new multiscreen cloud recording service, and the ability to cast movies, music and more to the TV with Chromecast built-in. There is a voice-activated remote control to search for content within Google.
“Service providers recognize the value to the consumer in enhancing their live and on-demand TV services with an easy-to-use TV experience,” said Phil Cardy, Vice President, International PLM, Home Networks, CommScope. “We are excited by our partnership with Orange Belgium and to provide them with a next-generation, high-quality solution that gives their subscribers the services and entertainment they have come to expect.”
The casings for the set-top and its remote control are manufactured with 99 per cent post-consumer recycled plastics. CommScope eliminated all single-use plastics in the packaging, aligning with both CommScope and Orange Belgium’s strong commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Orange Belgium represents the second affiliate CommScope has deployed with Android TV devices, the first being Orange Slovensko in August 2021. CommScope and Orange will continue to launch similar platforms to additional affiliates throughout the course of 2022.
