Light Reading reported that the FCC is ready to rule on a set-top overhaul, attempting to open up the market to new competition, most notably by requiring operators separate their video streams from their connected program navigation guides. The Cable industry responded swiftly with the launch of the Future of TV Coalition – a group consisting of 47 founding members.
This week, Spotify launched a video streaming service with content available from providers like ESPN, Comedy Central, MTV and others, reported Engadget. The new service is currently available on Android devices and will arrive on iOS devices soon.
Light Reading reported on AT&T’s ambitious plans in the TV Everywhere space that will start with the launch of several “mobile-centric” video services rolled out throughout the year. The video offerings will leverage technology from the company’s newly purchased DirecTV and wireless spectrum assets.
According to Parks Associates, more than 60 percent of U.S. broadband houses have at least one OTT subscription service, reported Broadband TV News. The analyst firm expects many new OTT services to be introduced in 2016, with Netflix, Hulu and Amazon continuing to preside over the OTT industry in the U.S.
Digital TV Europe reported that France’s AB Group plans to launch a children’s educational channel and an associated SVOD service with operator Orange. The service, aimed at 12-15 year-olds, will be available in February and will include a recommendations engine that highlights shows based on users’ previous viewing habits.
