Attempting to serve a pay-TV sector that is moving toward cloud-based and live-streaming services, Cisco Systems announced the acquisition of cloud video/multiscreen specialist 1 Mainstream for an undisclosed sum.
Based in Apple's hometown of Cupertino, Calif., and privately funded to the tune of $5 million, 1 Mainstream has created a cloud-based video platform designed to launch live and on-demand OTT video services to a number of connected devices.
Said Rob Salvagno, VP of corporate business development for Cisco: "1 Mainstream plays a key role in the OTT pay-TV and media industry, sitting at the intersection between content and connected devices, and seamlessly moving content across connected devices. The company's platform is widely used by major content providers and traditional service providers, to deliver their content across most of the video streaming platforms available today."
"Today's acquisition," Salvagno added, "will enable service providers, broadcasters and media companies to make their entire channel lineup and content library available to their customers on the internet via their TV, tablet or connected devices, either within the home or on the go."
Among its pay-TV operator clients, Cisco has worked extensively with Charter Communications (NASDAQ: CHTR), which is in the process of testing a live streaming service.
For example, in October, Cisco revealed in an FCC filing that it's developing a cloud-based DVR for the MSO.
"Cisco currently is working with Charter on a remote DVR trial for IP video to the home, and on backbone and regional access network upgrades to enhance Charter's ability to support streamed video traffic through its network to the customer premises," Cisco said in its filing. "In addition, Cisco is assisting Charter to enable IP distribution through Wi-Fi in the home and exploring ways to expand that capability outside the home."
For more:
- read this Cisco announcement
Related articles:
Infinera's Fallon: Cable industry consolidation is an opportunity
Cisco exec says DOCSIS 3.1 capabilities may create issues for cable operators
Charter testing Cisco's remote DVR, Wi-Fi technology