RCN brings the Opera TV Store to TiVo® set-top boxes
The Opera TV Store is set to bring hundreds of entertaining apps to all TiVo set-top boxes for U.S. cable operator RCN. It is the first pay-TV cable operator to launch Opera Software’s app platform on its TiVo devices, and the first TiVo operator deployment following the partnership to bring the Opera TV Store to TiVo set-top boxes.
The Opera TV Store – an HTML5, cloud-based application solution – enables premium, over-the-top content for Smart TV devices such as from TiVo. It empowers RCN to offer more entertainment options and brings subscribers a rich selection of video, music, games, social media, news and utility apps for the biggest screen in the home.
As well as making access to over-the-top content seamless, the Opera TV Store gives cable operators full control over which apps are available for their subscribers. It provides RCN with a backend system for advanced statistics on Opera TV Store usage, such as the popularity of individual apps, so they can make continued improvements to bring customers the best apps available. The managed cloud solution can also offer rich customization and branding possibilities, as well as enabling operators to prioritize local apps and content.
Opera’s application platform will be available on all of RCN’s TiVo set-top boxes. RCN TiVo boxes already deployed in homes will be updated over the RCN broadband network, so existing viewers can also enjoy the Opera app storefront.
“The TV space is changing rapidly, and a viable application platform is a must for staying ahead of the game,” said Jason Nealis, VP of Video Operations at RCN. “Opera Software provides the most mature HTML5-based application platform, enabling us to expand our entertainment offering for RCN customers. We are pleased to come on board as the Opera TV Store’s landmark first operator deployment. This partnership is another example of RCN’s commitment to creating a superior customer experience.”
“Opera Software has worked in the pay-TV operator space for more than 10 years, powering portals and premium content through the Opera Devices Software Development Kit,” said Aneesh Rajaram, Vice-President of TV & Devices, Opera Software. “We now strengthen our proposition for operators through the Opera TV Store, which has already proved popular with manufacturers. The Opera TV Store makes it a breeze for operators like RCN to simply turn on a proven OTT content offering for their subscribers.”
About RCN Telecom Services, LLC
RCN Telecom Services, LLC (www.rcn.com and rcnbusiness.com) provides industry-leading High-Speed Internet, all-Digital TV and Phone services for residential, small/medium and Enterprise business customers. PC Magazine’s Readers’ Choice Award named RCN one of the winners for best cable broadband ISPs in 2013 – RCN was rated highest in satisfaction for reliability. RCN was also ranked #1 in Boston by Netflix for the best viewing experience. RCN’s affordably priced advanced digital services are delivered through their proprietary, state-of-the-art fiber-rich network and supported by 100% U.S.-based customer service. RCN’s primary service areas include Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Lehigh Valley (PA), New York City, Boston, and Chicago.
About TiVo Inc.
Founded in 1997, TiVo Inc. (NASDAQ: TIVO) developed the first commercially available digital video recorder (DVR). TiVo offers the TiVo service and TiVo DVRs directly to consumers online at www.TiVo.com and through third-party retailers. TiVo also distributes its technology and services through solutions tailored for cable, satellite and broadcasting companies. Since its founding, TiVo has evolved into the ultimate single solution media center by combining its patented DVR technologies and universal cable box capabilities with the ability to aggregate, search, and deliver millions of pieces of broadband, cable, and broadcast content directly to the television. An economical, one-stop-shop for in-home entertainment, TiVo’s intuitive functionality and ease of use puts viewers in control by enabling them to effortlessly navigate the best digital entertainment content available through one box, with one remote, and one user interface, delivering the most dynamic user experience on the market today. TiVo also continues to weave itself into the fabric of the media industry by providing interactive advertising solutions and audience research and measurement ratings services to the television industry www.TiVo.com.