Content security specialist Nagra and chipmaker MStar Semiconductor have announced a new partnership that allows pay-TV operators to integrate 4K services directly on connected Ultra HD TV sets without the need for a set-top.
Under the partnership between the two technology companies, Nagra will integrate its NOCS for TV and anyCast Connect 4K content security client directly onto MStar chips for 4K televisions. The solution meets "Hollywood standards for content protection" without requiring a pay-TV set-top box, Nagra said.
"By working with MStar to bring Nagra's next-generation connected security solutions directly to 4K Ultra HD TV sets, we are giving our [pay-TV] clients new ways to increase their market share and sign up new customers spontaneously from the comfort of their own couches," said Maurice van Riek, senior VP and head of content and asset security for Nagra. "More importantly, without compromising on security, pay-TV service providers can deliver their full bouquet of premium content directly on the TV screen for OTT, DVB and IPTV without the need for an additional STB or CA module."
A lack of available content has been a key bottleneck for pay-TV providers working to develop 4K services. Hollywood studios are maintaining strict content security guidelines, fearful that master-quality 4K copies of their assets will be illicitly compromised.
To date, DirecTV (NYSE: T), Comcast (NASDAQ: CMCSA) and Dish Network (NASDAQ: DISH) -- the three U.S. pay-TV operators that have announced 4K service offerings -- are using advanced, security-enabled set-tops to deliver a limited amount of Ultra HD programming to a handful of their subscribers.
Dispensing with the need for expensive set-tops and other CPE could open the 4K market to smaller- and medium-sized cable operators.
For more:
- read this Nagra press release
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