Multichannel Video Programming Distributors (MVPDs) who need to evolve into Multiscreen Video Programming Distributors still have a rough row to hoe, according to Infonetics Research's recently released Multi-Screen TV Service Deployment Strategies: Global Service Provider Survey.
While everyone agrees that "[m]ultiscreen services are quickly becoming a critical service for pay TV operators worldwide" as they focus on keeping "subscribers and advertisers happy," getting access to the content that makes it happen is still not a given, said Jeff Heynen, Infonetics' directing analyst for broadband access and pay TV, in a corporate press release.
That's because "[s]ignificant challenges remain" in terms of licensing arrangements "with content owners who are concerned about the security of their content in a multi-screen world," added Julien Blin, Infonetics' directing analyst for consumer electronics and mobile broadband.
Correspondingly, this is also a roadblock in delivering something most consumers want, or actually demand: a la carte channel content.
"Securing content licensing deals is the No. 1 business challenge facing respondent operators," the press release proclaimed.
Other details called out in the report: Nearly half of those surveyed said they support tablets as part of a multiscreen experience and that number is expected to reach 100 percent saturation by 2014; and 40 percent preferred Android and iOS as their mobile operating platforms.
For more:
- Infonetics Research issued this press release
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