Freesat and SeaChange to launch new connected TV platform

Freesat and SeaChange International have partnered to form a new connected TV platform that integrates Freesat’s Freetime electronic programme guide with SeaChange’s Adrenalin multi-screen television platform.

The platform, which aims to “empower service providers to rapidly customise and deploy a complete connected TV service for subscribers on set-top boxes and smart TVs”, will include an “advanced” TV guide with catch-up and recommendations services.

Freesat, a subscription-free service, is a joint venture between the BBC and ITV and is currently in more than 1.85 million homes. Its Freetime box, which launched in 2012, accounts for 45% of all Freesat set-top box sales.

Commenting on the partnership, Freesat’s chief technology officer, Matthew Huntington, said: “Freetime is a key driver of the growth of Freesat in the UK with consumers choosing to purchase Freetime enabled-boxes and smart TVs to access the superior experience this delivers.

“Freetime is based on open web technologies such as html, making it a compelling proposition for service providers. This partnership with SeaChange means we can now take an end-to-end TV platform to the market that offers the comprehensive features set and customer benefits that Freetime provides.”

Andrei Noppe, senior vice president and general manager EMEA & APAC, SeaChange, added: “The Freetime guide has been proven to drive significant subscriber attraction and stickiness.

“By offering this powerful guide in concert with SeaChange’s software and services, Freesat and SeaChange are helping service providers to reinforce their value and grow revenues with a fully-managed platform for advanced television capabilities.”