Espial (TSX:ESP) announced its fourth-generation software solution for video service providers, the G4 STB Client. G4 is intended to let operators blend advanced TV functionality, including linear and on-demand content, with Internet-based video and apps into one consistent experience with their branded look and feel, on virtually any set-top. It's designed to integrate third-party recommendation engines and let service providers customize the user experience via HTML5.
Other features include:
- Internet methodologies to expedite new application deployment as well as ongoing enhancement
- Multi-applications delivery, including navigation between operator and Internet video apps, app lifecycle, app rights and metadata management, and sandboxing
- The ability to change user interface menu/navigation paths, add new features and services, migrate to introduce new hardware platforms and prototype/test before deploying
- Support for QAM, hybrid QAM-IP, and IP-only networks
