Digital technologies and video on demand solutions provider Discover Digital fast emerging as the local technology leader in the OTT on-demand and internet TV space, has developed an advanced new digitally interactive electronic programme guide (EPG) system for broadcasters and digital TV streaming services.
Stephen Watson, Managing Director of Discover Digital, says the EPG was developed internally to address the need for an advanced digitally interactive programme guide that serves as a foundation for future streaming functionality.
Discover Digital’s latest custom-built solution creates a direct path to programming information and converts it to local time zones, providing viewers access to accurate live programme information, with constantly updated start and end times and program information. Built-in notification features allow viewers to set reminders and receive notifications to mobile devices and share what they are watching on popular social media platforms Facebook and Twitter.
Directed ultimately at enhancing the end-user experience, the product makes for a compelling addition to any business looking to play in the video on demand and online TV channel space. A rand-based product in an otherwise dollar dominated market, the EPG not only provides an affordable quality solution for continuous updating of menus and programme scheduling, but also for those services wishing to offer catch up and PVR functionality.
“Discover Digital’s new EPG will go live on our entertainment service, called DEOD. Not only does it give viewers a single destination for updated 24/7 access to TV channel programming information and correct start and end times of programmes, but the EPG system also lays the foundations for our next on-demand technology innovations, including building personalised catalogues of catch up content,” says Watson.
In addition to the launch of the EPG, Discover Digital is also preparing to release a set of new functions including user-driven cloud-based network personal video recording (N-PVR) and system-driven Live-to-VOD services. The Live to VOD system driven process will automatically record all programmes from a linear channel and make them available in a catch up environment. This feature will be especially beneficial with sports content, where premium international content may be screened live at inconvenient times for South African and pan-African viewers.
“Our new solutions will be rolled out to DEOD customers, but are also available as stand-alone solutions and/or fully managed services within our technology portfolio,” says Watson.
