Espial boosts RDK with adaptive streaming


Details

Michelle Clancy

| 02 December 2015




Espial has announced software contributions to the Reference Design Kit (RDK) code base for adaptive video streaming for pay-TV operators.



The contributions enable HLS (Apple) and DASH (MPEG) streaming in a RDK environment, to support over-the-top (OTT) offerings and allow operators to adopt a simplified software approach for set-top boxes (STBs), other IPTV platforms or OTT devices.

"We're pleased to bring support for HLS and DASH streaming to RDK devices – capabilities which are critical for the next generation of pay-TV services" said Kumanan Yogaratnam, CTO, Espial. "As the RDK environment grows, it allows pay-TV operators to quickly intercept new OTT markets with a wide range of platforms and services."

More specifically, Espial has contributed software which enables two adaptive bit-rate (ABR) streaming formats - HLS and DASH – that are now available as open source for use by RDK members. For operators within the RDK community – including cable, satellite and telco – these contributions allow them to accelerate creation of new IP-based video services, generating new revenue and lowering development costs. Pay-TV operators can use RDK ABR streaming for traditional managed TV services, including video-on-demand, time-shift TV, pause live TV, cloud DVR and IP multicast services. In addition, they can also now target new market segments with OTT services, including millennials, cord-cutters and out-of-region subscribers.

"The RDK provides a common software foundation for the pay-TV community – including cable, satellite and telco operators – by enabling new services and applications to be developed faster," said Jason Briggs, senior director of licensing and strategic development, RDK Management. "Espial is a key contributor to the RDK community and, through these contributions, are helping to move the entire RDK community forward."

The number of RDK licensees has grown more than 63% since last April, and now stands at more than 220 total licensees across consumer electronics manufacturers, SoC vendors, software developers, system integrators and pay-TV service providers.