iWedia has announced the launch of NTT DOCOMO’s fourth-generation Android TV set-top box.
Designed to deliver Ultra HD content and featuring a variety of interactive and hybrid features, the device updates DOCOMO’s Hikari TV service by integrating broadcast and streaming content within one platform.
The set-top box uses Android TV, featuring updated hardware and customised software for improved performance and user experience. iWedia’s middleware, developed according to NTT DOCOMO’s requirements, is fully compliant with Japanese broadcast standards (ARIB) and supports OTT streaming. This allows Hikari TV to provide both traditional broadcast channels and on-demand content through a single device.
“Our role was to align global technology with local market needs,” said iWedia CEO, Hans-Juergen Desor. “By blending our Android TV expertise with deep knowledge of Japanese standards, we helped NTT DOCOMO bring a truly next-gen TV experience and increase value to their viewers.”
Advanced PVR features include auto-chaptering and smart recording, and ARIB-compliant interactivity supported by middleware customization and certification. Middleware has been adapted to Synaptics hardware under Android TV 12, with planned upgrades to version 14 and HEVC support.
