Skip to content

Next-Generation Set-Top Box Unveiled by iWedia for NTT DOCOMO

Announcing NTT DOCOMO's fourth-generation Android TV set-top box, iWedia unveils a game-changer in home entertainment. This innovative device, capable of delivering Ultra HD content, boasts a multitude of interactive and hybrid features. By merging broadcast and streaming content onto a single...

Next-Generation Set-Top Box Introduced by iWedia for NTT DOCOMO
Next-Generation Set-Top Box Introduced by iWedia for NTT DOCOMO

Next-Generation Set-Top Box Unveiled by iWedia for NTT DOCOMO

iWedia, a leading provider of digital TV solutions, has announced the launch of its fourth-generation Android TV set-top box for NTT DOCOMO. The new device is expected to be available in 2024, aiming to bring a next-generation TV experience and increase value to viewers.

The set-top box delivers Ultra HD content and integrates broadcast and streaming news within one platform. It is equipped with advanced PVR features such as auto-chaptering and smart recording, providing users with a seamless and enhanced viewing experience.

In addition to the new set-top box, iWedia has introduced a new solution named WatchParty. This innovative solution combines popular messenger apps with video content, enabling users to invite unlimited numbers of friends to watch TV news together. WatchParty will be showcased on iWedia's stand 5.F80 at IBC2023, held in Amsterdam from 15-18 September 2023.

iWedia has also partnered with technology research institute Fraunhofer IIS to integrate MPEG-H Audio into iWedia's ATSC 3.0 software stack. While this partnership is not directly related to the current launch, it is a significant step towards enhancing the audio quality of future iWedia products.

The middleware supporting these innovations is compliant with Japanese broadcast standards (ARIB) and supports OTT streaming news. It has been adapted to Synaptics hardware under Android TV 12 and also supports ARIB-compliant interactivity. Planned upgrades to the middleware include versions 14 and HEVC support.

The device updates DOCOMO's Hikari TV service and uses Android TV with customized software. The project upgraded the devices to new DRM protected ABR streaming technologies via seamless integration of iWedia's products.

In another collaboration, iWedia and NTT DOCOMO aim to support the rollout of Brazil's next-generation DTV+ broadcast standard. The partnership is expected to bring advanced digital TV solutions to Brazilian viewers.

iWedia CEO, Hans-Juergen Desor, stated that they aligned global technology with local market needs. He emphasised their commitment to delivering innovative and high-quality solutions tailored to the specific requirements of each market.

In a separate project, iWedia collaborated with Hrvatski Telekom (HT) to extend the lifecycle of HT's hundreds of thousands legacy IPTV STB devices. This collaboration demonstrates iWedia's ability to adapt its solutions to meet the needs of various clients and markets.

These announcements mark a significant step forward for iWedia, demonstrating their commitment to innovation, quality, and meeting the needs of their clients and the markets they serve.

Read also:

Latest