Intelsat launches VideoNow FTA satellite EPG service

Intelsat Launches VideoNow

McLEAN, Va. — Intelsat, operator of the world’s largest integrated satellite and terrestrial network and leading provider of inflight connectivity (IFC), has launched an electronic program guide (EPG) to help viewers better navigate satellite TV programming while creating more value for broadcasters by increasing viewer-engagement opportunities.

VideoNow by Intelsat, in conjunction with EasyBroadcast, is a service for viewers looking for free-to-air (FTA) content on direct-to-home (DTH) platforms. The first Intelsat satellite to be included in the service is Galaxy 19 (G-19), a multicultural and ethnic-content neighborhood over North America.

G-19 delivers prominent cultural and faith-based programming from the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Africa to millions of viewers in the United States, Canada and Mexico. These viewers represent diverse groups looking for high-quality content from their home countries.

VideoNow enables these viewers to easily find and discover new content specific to their interests. Visitors to VideoNow will experience an easy-to-navigate interface that highlights the list of channels available on G-19 as well as descriptions, logos, genres, languages, and countries of origin.

“By providing G-19 viewers with easy access to their favorite content, we’re also creating new monetization opportunities for our customers by increasing the visibility of channel lineups and providing more engagement and promotion opportunities,” said Bill O’Hara, VP, and GM of Media Services, Intelsat.

Some of these engagement opportunities will include the chance for advertisement and promotion on the site directly, as well as consumer analytics.

“VideoNow is designed to drive viewership for broadcasters on Galaxy 19 and other satellites by providing a platform for content discovery and viewer-level analytics, as well as a foundation for future monetization opportunities,” says Alex Beach, VP, Business & Product Development, EasyBroadcast. “We are excited to assist in the development of VideoNow, as well as other future projects in partnership with Intelsat.”

Additional Intelsat satellites will be rolled out with the VideoNow service later in 2022.

VideoNow is available online as well as in iOS and Android app stores.