Amlogic and Skyworth create Netflix-ready RDK set-top box platform

Amlogic and Skyworth Partner to Create Netflix Ready Fast-track Platform for Operator RDK Set Top Boxes

SAN FRANCISCO and SHENZHEN — Reference Design Kit has been a preferred solution for many premium Pay-TV operators however the substantial engineering investment needed for app integration on this platform is a well-known drawback. To address this issue, Netflix launched a new scaling program called “Da Vinci”. Amlogic, a leading fabless semiconductor company, and Skyworth Digital, the world’s largest STB manufacturer, have both been selected as Da Vinci program partners. Therefore, it also made sense to work closely together to deliver this cost saving solution to the market.

RDK is an open-source software platform for connected homes that standardizes core functions used in broadband, video, and IoT connected devices. RDK enables service providers to manage their devices; control their business models; and customize their apps, to improve the customer experience and drive business results. For STBs, RDK provides a common method to discover and manage OTT and broadcast video services, security, data analytics, diagnostics and more.

“The demand for RDK-based products is on the rise with Pay-TV operators around the globe and Skyworth is proud to collaborate with Netflix and Amlogic to provide operators a Netflix enabled product that can help minimize the engineering cost significantly.” said Charlie Zheng, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, Sales and Marketing, Skyworth Digital.

“Many service providers are turning to RDK as their software platform of choice for next-gen video and broadband products, and Amlogic will be there for them,” said James Xie, Senior Vice President of Corporate Business Strategy, Amlogic. “We’re delighted to have partnered with Skyworth in the integration of the Netflix App on the RDK Video Accelerator platform. This speeds up time to market, simplifies integration and maintenance, whilst delivering an exceptional user experience.”

Skyworth’s RDK box is a UHD IP-set top, running on the Amlogic S905X4 chipset with 2GB DDR4 + 16GB eMMC, dual band 802.11ax Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi 6), Bluetooth (BTLE) 5.0. The newly added Amazon Alexa voice search function fills the last gap between RDK and other mainstream STB operating systems.