Alcatel, Microsft Unveil IPTV Partnership
Alcatel and Microsoft announced Tues. they will jointly develop an Internet-TV platform (IPTV), with SBC the first operator to use it as a springboard into video. Microsoft and Alcatel officials on a conference call with reporters said the agreement is a major development for IPTV.
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SBC had already announced deals with both companies, but with the new announcement Microsoft and France-based Alcatel indicated they plan to work with a wide number of operators for a “global” spinout of IPTV. Microsoft said the companies will work on developing and customizing applications for individual broadband providers, including SBC, and on integrating software deeper into the network. Alcatel already offers Open Media Client software for IP-based set- top boxes. The company said it plans to continue investing in that product in the aftermath of the Microsoft agreement.
“This is a challenge to the industry to come join us and make a difference in IPTV,” Alan Mottram, pres. of fixed solutions for Alcatel, said during the call. “We're going to change the rules of the game, in terms of the economics of being able to deploy these kinds of solutions.”
“If IPTV was in first gear before, we have just shifted into at least third,” said Moshe Lichtman, vp-Microsoft TV. “Our 2 companies also share a broad commitment to digital TV innovation and growth on a global scale, and will work together to build customized solutions that meet the needs of different cultures and markets around the world.” The deal also gives Microsoft an in with Alcatel’s broadband customers, he said.
Microsoft last year signed a $400-million, 10-year pact with SBC to provide its IPTV platform. In Oct., SBC announced a $1.7 billion primary supplier agreement with Alcatel, which will provide the Bell with network equipment and video system integration services for its Project Lightspeed. BellSouth and Telecom Italia have also announced they're working with the 2 companies.