Selevision teams with Arabsat to launch Middle East HbbTV platform

Saudi Arabia-based technology provider Selevision has teamed up with satellite operator Arabsat to launch what the pair say will be the first HbbTV-based service in Middle East and North Africa region.

The Service will be provided to Arabsat customers from Jordan Media City, via service provider Du in the UAE and via Overon in Spain. The Arabsat-delivered HbbTV service will be complemented by Selevision’s OTT platform and content library and the service will be delivered via Arabsat’s 26 deg. East hotspot. A range of standard applications will be provided to participating broadcasters.

The service will be available to viewers on all HbbTV compatible set-top-boxes in the regions served. Arabsat and Selevision also plan to launch what they say is the first HbbTV channel in the region as a pilot to present the concept to Arabsat’s customer base.

Raed Khusheim, CEO of Selevision said: “We are delighted to enter into this strategic partnership with Arabsat, one of the world’s leading satellite operators. We are constantly looking forward and committed to delivering engaging new services for customers, The HbbTV service will be compatible with all available HbbTV-ready boxes in the market. Furthermore, we have also announced REDO, Selevision new invention: the first hybrid Android unit with an approved CAS system platform, [our] REDO unit will allow us to provide a variety of interactive new hybrid services to the market before any other provider in the region”.

Khalid Balkhyour, president and CEO of Arabsat said: “Arabsat is always keen to deliver new experience to its viewers and facilitate access to new technology for its broadcastors base customers; this partnership with Selevision will add value to the Arabsat hotspot at 26 deg. East with its growing neighbourhood that will benefit both the broadcaster and the viewer. This platform will leverage on Arabsat’s reach and on Selevision’s extremely competitive offerings and services. Both parties have invested in this platform to provide an excellent cooperation model in the industry.”