Technicolor signs global deal with Telefonica

French technology firm Technicolor has signed a major global deal with Telefonica, establishing it as its set-top box provider for the mass launch of Telefonica HD services on its satellite and broadcasting networks.

Starting in Latin America – in Brazil, Chile, Peru and Colombia – Telefonica will deploy Technicolor’s MediaPlay HD satellite and cable Set-Top Boxes. These feature Wi-Fi MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 (H.264) video codecs in standard and high definition, PVR functionality, and advanced video features like aggregation of traditional linear TV broadcasts with video delivered via IP networks.

Technicolor said that Telefonica aims to let customers access broadcast and internet video on their TVs, alongside advanced services such as VOD, internet browsing and time-shifted TV, all via an intuitive user interface.

“Technicolor’s satellite and cable HD platforms allow us to develop our leading position in digital home solutions: it enriches the in-home entertainment experience of our consumers, who want to enjoy access to a wider range of features, applications and services through a user friendly and reliable product,” said David del Val, global product director video, Telefonica Digital.