New TV Platform Launched

A new software platform for cable and satellite TV operators will allow them to present more extensive and interactive program guides and channel menus and will provide new advertising and merchandising opportunities. The platform, Microsoft TV Foundation Edition, continues the Microsoft TV Division’s year-old effort to focus on currently deployed set-top boxes rather than on more advanced units that operators have proven reluctant to roll out. If a test by U.S. cable company Comcast leads to widespread deployment, Foundation Edition could provide a much-needed win for the Microsoft TV Division.

Focus on Channel Menu, Old Set-Tops

Digital cable and satellite customers often have hundreds of channels to choose from. Most operators use channel listings from third parties, such as Gemstar-TV Guide, which require users to scroll through listings in numerical or chronological order. Although operators can offer advertisements or links to fee-based offerings on these menus, they offer little variety or opportunity for branding, and viewers tend to use them for only one purpose: to find something to watch.