platform, based on Windows CE powered STBs from Thomson along with IPTV services from Bell Canada, Reliance Infocomm, SBC Communications, and Swisscom/Bluewin.
In addition to Thomson, new device and equipment makers developing IP-STBs based on Windows CE include Abocom,
Akimbo (pictured above), Bast, Broadband Networks, Dave Networks, Handan BroadInfoCom,
Humax, ImpressTek, and TCL International Holdings, according to Microsoft. These companies join previously announced vendors Biostar, Broadband Networks, Costron, Pace Micro Technologies, Samsung, and
Tcom&DTVro.
Microsoft noted that a number of Windows CE based STBs are currently in various stages of deployment. For example, Handan's Zenega brand was selected by T-Online in Germany; Tcom&DTVro has deployed more than 150,000 units in a Japanese hotel chain; and Swiss telecom operator Swisscom announced plans to deploy Windows CE based STBs that feature TiVo-like "PVR" (personal video recorder) capabilities. Also, LG Electronics
announced last week that Korea Telecom (KT) will shortly deploy Windows CE based STBs (pictured above-right) in the Seoul area.
Why Windows CE?According to Microsoft, device makers and network operators are selecting Windows CE as the basis of their new lines of STBs (and related services) for four key reasons:
- It enables them to quickly integrate new applications with existing technologies
- It includes native support for Windows Media 9, which provides enhanced compression that enables full screen streaming video over existing networks
- It provides support for DRM (digital rights management).
- Remote management capabilities enable operators to deploy new and innovative services directly to end users.
In addition to the benefits of using Windows CE as an embedded software platform within STBs, Microsoft also offers an "end-to-end"
IPTV platform that is claimed to enable broadband network operators to deliver "better TV services" to multiple devices in the home using both existing and next-generation networks.
Further background information on Microsoft's IP-STB and IPTV technologies and platforms is available from the following WindowsForDevices news items and articles:
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