IBC 2011 Q&A: Tore Gimse, chief technology officer, Conax

Tore Gimse, chief technology officer at Conax spoke to DTVE to discuss the company’s plans for the show.

What has been the most significant development in pay TV technology since last year’s IBC?

It seems that OTT support in pay-TV operators’ RFQs has moved from ‘optional’ to ‘mandatory’, indicating that OTT will see a significant growth in the years to come.  However, the operators are not very clear when it comes to business models for OTT, so it is unclear what effects OTT will have for operators’ revenue.

What is the biggest challenge currently facing the industry?

The customers’ expectation on content availability on a variety of platforms and formats is a major challenge – particularly when combined with the need to instantaneously find and get access to specific content and services. New vertical value chains and proprietary services on specific platforms complicate this picture.

What trends do you expect to emerge from this year’s IBC?

We expect (or hope) to see sustainable business models for OTT services.

What will you be highlighting at IBC?

Conax will highlight the extension of the Conax Contego platform to OTT services and portable devices. This is a natural extension of last year’s launch of the new flagship platform and the increased focus on content protection for hybrid services.

What are your main goals for the next 12 months?

OTT deployment and continued expansion in growth markets are next year’s focus areas.

Do you have any IBC survival tips?

Breaks! The atmosphere is very intense and busy, so in order to keep focus and stay in the marathon, it’s necessary to take a few breaks with some fresh air and a few quiet minutes.

Conax will be exhibiting at IBC on Stand 1.D69