Hybrid IPTV Set-top Boxes 'Jump-starting' IPTV Services

MRG Hybrid IPTV Set-top Box Forecast Reveals How Operators are “Jump-starting” IPTV Services; Over 22 Million Estimated by 2012

SAN JOSE, CA — A new global report from MRG shows how hybrid IPTV set-top boxes (STBs) are helping IPTV Operators “jump-start” early service deployment or extend the reach of their existing video IP Networks. By merging existing digital video broadcast programming with IPTV services, Operators are finding they can significantly slash CapEx and lead-time costs from typical IPTV deployment costs. In 2008, there were already 14.4 million installed hybrid STB units worldwide, with estimated growth to 22.3 million in 2012.

The report explores how hybrid IPTV set-top boxes (STBs) can receive broadcast digital channels from Satellite, Terrestrial or Cable–plus from a managed IPTV (on-demand) service. By using existing broadcast sources in addition to on-demand IPTV service, IPTV Operators can significantly reduce the content acquisition and early network infrastructure requirements. “Use of hybrids can solve some serious problems presented by technical restrictions or lack of content,” says MRG Analyst, Huw Price-Stephens, MRG Analyst. “They can also create new and bigger problems unless acquired with an effective exit strategy, which does not require swapping out the STBs.”

In addition to the forecast, the report explores and ranks the ten major market and operational drivers of hybrid STB usage in various countries, including drivers related to Core and Access Network issues, HD Access, Content Acquisition, Risk Reduction, Time-to-Market, Regulatory and other issues, each examined with a strength/weakness analysis of the solutions.

“Matching a hybrid strategy with the local competitive profile may be the best way for an IPTV Operator to differentiate the service,” says Gary Schultz, Principal Analyst/President, MRG, Inc. “This report is well worth the investment for the CapEx and OpEx costs it will save in both near-term and long-range operations.”

The report also offers a “faster-growth scenario,” which shows growth with an earlier economic recovery in 2009–including North America, Asia, Europe and ROW (Rest of World).

‘Hybrid IPTV Set-top Boxes–Global Market Forecast & Strategy Critique: 2009-2012’ is 112 pages and is available in a printed English language edition for $1,995 USD, a PDF single-departmental license for $2,995 USD, and is available free as part of MRG’s IPTV Tracking Service. For more information, or a corporate license, or to order the report, contact Rob Smith at 1-408-453-5553 or rsmith@mrgco.com.