Cinedigm selects Verizon Digital Media Services for linear stream distribution

Cinedigm Signs Agreement with Verizon Digital Media Services to Power Linear Stream Distribution

LOS ANGELES — Cinedigm (NASDAQ: CIDM) today announced that Cinedigm has selected Verizon Digital Media Services to power the streaming and syndication of linear content for its portfolio of over the top digital networks. The move to the Verizon Digital Media Services platform will enable high-quality, reliable video delivery of Cinedigm’s linear services to a wide array of streaming devices, platforms and providers.

The deal encompasses the streaming of DOVE NOW, Cinedigm’s 24/7 programmed linear channel available to Dove Channel subscribers, as well as future linear services to be announced later this year. Since launch, DOVE NOW has become the Dove Channel’s most-viewed selection. Cinedigm will utilize the Verizon Digital Media Services Uplynk Video Streaming service to ingest, encode, package and deliver linear video to audiences across devices and to reach the fast-growing segment of next-generation television services.

“Next-generation linear platforms such as Sling TV, DIRECTV NOW, and YouTube TV are expected to replace up to 20% of existing cable and satellite subscriber homes within the next three years,” said Erick Opeka, EVP of Digital Networks for Cinedigm. “Verizon Digital Media Services’ proven track record with the world’s leading broadcasters will enable us to achieve the quality and reliability needed as we expand into this exciting new market.”

“We take pride in offering services that enable content providers like Cinedigm to go-to-market with OTT linear channels quickly, cost-effectively — and most importantly, in a manner that delivers the highest quality of content to viewers on their mobile and connected devices,” said Ralf Jacob, president for Verizon Digital Media Services. “Through our end-to-end digital media platform, our customers have access to the critical resources that will enable them to effectively scale and monetize content, including innovative features such as server side ad insertion available through our Uplynk Video Streaming service.”

The addition of content available through the Verizon Digital Media Services’ platform comes amidst several recent announcements by Cinedigm on the expansion of its world-class OTT infrastructure, including the addition of DRM support from Google, Apple and Microsoft, as well as device footprint expansions to more than 60 Million devices including Google Chromecast, Android TV and Amazon Fire TV.