Stephen Watson, managing director of Discover Digital, says the EPG was developed internally to address the need for an advanced digitally interactive programme guide that serves as a foundation for future streaming functionality.
Discover Digital’s custom-built solution aims to create a direct path to programming information and converts it to local time zones, providing viewers access to live programme information, with updated start and end times as well as programme information.
Built-in notification features allow viewers to set reminders and receive notifications to mobile devices and share what they are watching on social media platforms Facebook and Twitter.
The product aims to be a compelling addition to any business wanting to go into the VOD and online TV channel space. EPG aims to provide a solution for continuous updating of menus and programme scheduling as well as services wanting to offer catch up and PVR functionality.
"Discover Digital’s new EPG will go live on our entertainment service, called DEOD. Not only does it give viewers a single destination for updated 24/7 access to TV channel programming information and correct start and end times of programmes, but, the EPG system also lays the foundations for our next on-demand technology innovations, including building personalised catalogues of catch up content," adds Watson.
In addition to the launch of the EPG, Discover Digital is also preparing to release a set of new functions, including user-driven cloud-based network personal video recording (N-PVR) and system-driven live-to-VOD services.
The live-to-VOD system-driven process will automatically record all programmes from a linear channel and make them available in a catch-up environment. The feature aims to be beneficial with sports content, where premium international content may be screened live at inconvenient times for South African and pan-African viewers.
"Our new solutions will be rolled out to DEOD customers, but are also available as stand-alone solutions and/or fully managed services within our technology portfolio," concludes Watson.
For more information, visit www.discoverdigital.co.za. Alternatively, connect with them on Facebook or on Twitter.