Nokia Siemens Networks Launches Next Generation IPTV Solution to Focus on Platform Openness and Interactivity

Nokia Siemens Networks is now putting the power of bringing advanced IPTV applications and services in the carriers’ hands with its latest IPTV software release, Home Entertainment Release 3.0.

ANAHEIM, California, USA — The new offering will allow for full User Interface (UI) customization, flexible third party application integration and powerful management tools and verification processing. Operators can differentiate their services and overcome the constraints of proprietary vendor development timelines that is typical in today’s IPTV environment, and leverage a more open model that allows for development by the operators own staff, third party developers or a more open vendor community. At TelcoTV 2008, Nokia Siemens Networks will share its vision of the future connected digital lifestyle and IPTV’s role as a driver of change.

Traditional IPTV development has been a closed exercise, primarily the responsibility of vendors based on proprietary architectures. Leveraging an open model, Nokia Siemens Networks is offering an intuitive Software Development Kit (SDK) that allows for third-party customizable User Interface development on HTML and Java platforms, operators can customize and enhance their offerings themselves. Nokia Siemens Networks is decoupling the User Interface layer from the application layer by using ready-to-use building blocks like so-called Scriptables and Plug-ins, allowing for Internet Web2.0 type applications to integrate within an IPTV system quickly and cost effectively.

On the expo floor at the Anaheim Convention Center, Booth #533, Nokia Siemens Networks is demonstrating an advanced and customizable user experience with Web- enhanced TV supporting interactive services, developed without dependence on Nokia Siemens Networks. In addition, attendees can experience the new Home Media Server solution, which extends IPTV to the PC and conversely extends the user generated content to the set-top-box (STB). The Home Media Server allows for a whole new set of content to compliment operators’ existing entertainment lineups. Users will enjoy the convenience of exploring their home photos and videos all via their television, bringing Web2.0 experiences to the living room. Using Nokia Siemens Networks Home Media Server (HMS) solution, operators can further leverage their existing IPTV solution by offering users a low cost second or third TV option or by allowing new market entrants a way to trial IPTV services easily and effectively prior to subscribing.

While Nokia Siemens Networks Home Entertainment Release 3.0 brings the fundamentals of an IPTV solution with HDTV, DVR, VOD and Caller ID, it uses open processes to help operators bring their vision of entertainment services to market more quickly and offering differentiation in their service segment. Availability of the next generation IPTV solution is scheduled for North America in the first quarter of 2009.

“Nokia Siemens Networks is fundamentally changing the game in the IPTV ecosystem,” observes Lawrence Brickman, Managing Director, CloverLeaf Digital, a next-generation media company dedicated to providing interactive television products and services. “By allowing independent media application development companies like ours to develop in an open environment, we can help operators bring their vision for advanced home entertainment offerings to market more quickly.”

“The IPTV industry must take a leap forward beyond a proprietary, vendor-only development model, and leverage the proven internet model for introducing open and flexible applications and services,” added Brook Longdon, Global Head of IPTV Solutions, Nokia Siemens Networks. “The industry is at a crossroad of being able to blend the world of Web2.0 with that of traditional linear broadcast offerings, and the next generation IPTV solution we are launching today will help accelerate that reality.”