The virtual set-top box responds to commands from the customer's remote control and subsequently addresses the relevant network equipment to execute the command, such as starting a film or launching a catch-up TV video. The network-based GUI, which is based on HTML5, is streamed to the user over the DVB-C network via a "temporary personal TV channel".
The cloud-based service makes it possible to render various devices interactive, while at the same time adapting the GUI with extremely short lead times, without needing to update the CPE software - as is the case with Ziggo's current Cisco boxes. The new technology will first be rolled out to thousands of customers with Humax (5100, 5200, 5300) and Samsung (7140A, 7140B) digital receivers and later to other boxes.
In addition to avoiding costly CPE upgrades, Ziggo said the service will improve video quality, as the interactive services depend on its own network, rather than the IP network at the customer's home.
