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Editors Viewpoint - 5 Expert Writers - 6 Market Update - IPTV Industry - 8 Industry News - 10 Technology Series
Internet TV Systems - Internet TV Station Hosting-12
Featured Articles
Pre-Production Planning for VideoDrew Becker, Convey Media Group-18
Product Review
Wearable Video Cam Device Simplifies Live TV and Video Blog Production-Michael Sommer - 20
March 2011
PUBLISHER Lawrence Harte LHarte@IPTVMagazine.com EDITOR Lawrence Harte LHarte@IPTVMagazine.com Associate Editor Michele Chandler MChandler@IPTVMagazine.com ADVERTISING SALES Robert Belt RBelt@IPTVMagazine.com +1-480-368-8876 Business Development Carolyn Luck Carolyn@IPTVMagazine.com +1-919-557-2260 Multimedia Geovanny Solera GSolera@IPTVMagazine.com Expert Editors Bud Bates - Technology BBates@IPTVMagazine.com Robert Belt - Marketing RBelt@IPTVMagazine.com Lawrence Harte - Business LHarte@IPTVMagazine.com Michael Sommer - Consumer Elecronics MSommer@IPTVMagazine.com Eric Stasik - Patents and IPR EStasik@IPTVMagazine.com Avi Ofrane- Billing Systems AOfrane@IPTVMagazine.com Roger McGarrahan- Content Licensing Rmcgarrahan@IPTVMagazine.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Circulation Manager Jon Luke Ramos JRamos@IPTVMagazine.com Electronic subscriptions to IP Television Magazine are FREE. Printed versions of the magazine are distributed at industry trade events. IDENTIFICATION STATEMENT IP Television Magazine (ISSN: 1554-9410) is published monthly by Althos Publishing, 106 West Vance Street, Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 USA
Editors Viewpoint
A New Walled Garden - TV Broadcasters Keep Out!
Control over the TV Customer is Shifting from Broadcast Service providers to Device Manufacturers. A majority of the media viewing devices (TVs, Blu-ray players, gaming consoles) sold at the beginning of 2011 contained an Internet network connection that allows viewers to install and use TV applications (TV Apps). The use of TV Apps enable consumers to bypass traditional content distribution channels, such as Cable TV, DTT and Satellite TV, and find new content sources, such as NetFlix, Vudu and Amazon Video. Ironically, most consumer electronics devices that can run TV apps are not linking or interacting with television broadcast sys tems. TV apps are being downloaded and services streamed via Internet connections, creating a walled garden that is keeping TV broadcasters out. Some TV Broadcasters (cable, satellite and DTT companies) have started to partner with consumer electronics manufacturers such as TiVO and Roku. It will be interesting to see if and how consumer electronics manufacturers will allow broadcaster content through Internet connections. Right now, consumer electronics manufacturers do control access to the TV customers who have cut the cord in favor of watching TV that is delivered through the Internet.
Regis (Bud) Bates is a wireless systems expert who specializes in network operations and planning for telecommunications and management information systems. As president of TC International Consulting, he performs Strategic Planning, Business Continuity Planning and Technology Innovation for his client companies. Mr. Bates has helped fortune 100-500 companies design, setup, and manage LANs and WANs using SONET, ATM, MPLS, and VPN architectures. He specializes in the setup of mobile communication systems and developing the processes necessary to ensure the reliable restoration of networks when failures occur. Bud is a sought after professional instructor and he teaches using both Instructor-led (ILT) and Virtual classroom learning (VCL) formats. Bud Bates authored over fifteen technology-oriented books, many of which were best sellers for McGrawHill. Bud received his degree in Business Management from Stonehill College (BS) in Easton, MA and completed an MBA in Finance at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia (except the thesis). Mr. Harte has over 29 years of technology analysis, development, implementation, and business management experience. Mr. Harte has worked for leading companies including Ericsson/General Electric, Audiovox/Toshiba and Westinghouse and has consulted for hundreds of other companies. Mr. Harte continually researches, analyzes, and tests new communication technologies, applica tions, and services. He has authored over 100 books on communications technologies and business systems covering topics such as IP television, mobile telephone systems, data communications, voice over data networks, broadband, prepaid services, billing systems, sales, and Internet marketing. Mr. Harte holds many degrees and certificates including an Executive MBA from Wake Forest University (1995) and a BSET from the University of the State of New York, (1990).
March 2011
Roger McGarrahan is co-founder and General Manager of PathFinder World Video LLC which licenses linear channel and VOD programming from ethnic and niche television networks to CATV, Telco IPTV, Broadband IPTV, Mobile and Hospitality television service providers. Prior to that Roger was CEO of Thomson Broadcast & Multimedia, Inc. (Thomson/Grass Valley) in charge of North America operations and previously its General Counsel. Earlier Roger was legal counsel for COMSAT RSI which specialized in the design and delivery of satellite communication systems. In total, Roger has twenty years experience as executive management, operations management, and corporate counsel in the broadcast, satellite and telecommunications industries.
Roger McGarrahan
Content Licensing
Michael H. Sommer - The "Gadget Guy" Technology Commentator is a consumer electronics industry expert. Mr. Sommer regularly appears on several television stations as the Gadget Guy and is a sought after technology evaluation and marketing expert. His words and industry findings are referenced in many leading industry publications including USA Today, N.Y. Times and Telecom Business magazine. Mr. Sommer has been on the communication staff of the Winter Olympics and he is a staff expert writer for IP Television Magazine. He has been a consultant for hundreds of consumer elec tronics product developers ranging from high-tech start-ups to fortune 100 multinational companies. His clients include Motorola, Cendant Corporation, Sony, and other leading edge companies. Mr. Sommer attended the University of Hartford majoring in communications and he specializes in working with executives from fortune 1000 companies providing them with an understanding of consumer electronics device requirements and marketing programs. Mr. Eric Stasik is the director of Patent08, an expert consulting firm located in Stockholm, Sweden providing patent engineering, business development, and licensing services to small and mediumsized enterprises. He is an expert in helping firms develop patent and licensing strategies that sup port their business objectives. He is the author of several books on patent strategy and maintains a well-respected blog (www.patent08.com) on the business aspects of developments on patent law and practice. Mr. Stasik is an engineer; he is not an attorney at law and does not provide legal advice.
Avi Ofrane is the president and CEO, and a master instructor of The Billing College. Mr. Ofrane founded The Billing College in 1996 to address the converging market trends associated with telecommunications Billing and Customer Care. Mr. Ofrane began his career in 1977 as an analyst with the IBM Corporation, designing and implementing manufacturing systems. Throughout his extensive career, Mr. Ofrane has been involved in all aspects of the industry, including strategic planning, RFP processing, vendor evaluation and selection, business process engineering, business/systems analyses, project management, implementation, operations, quality assurance, and executive management. Since 1982, Mr. Ofrane has concentrated exclusively on the telecommunications industry, in which he is now a recognized expert and master instructor in Billing and Customer Care. Mr. Ofrane lectures extensively in the US and in Europe on Billing and Customer Care issues, strategies, methodologies, and practices and he is a frequent speaker at major industry conferences. He has authored several leading books on billing systems. Mr. Ofrane holds a BS, Computer Science, from Pennsylvania State University.
March 2011
Market Update
Global IPTV Market Forecast to 2014
By: RNCOS
Globally, IPTV represents an opportunity for telecommunication companies looking for new revenue streams beyond data and voice ser vices. With the necessary broadband infrastructure in place and the availability of new video compression technology, there is an opportunity for broadcasting live TV signals to a television set or a PC via private broadband networks. Besides, most IPTV markets have not reached saturation, so there are many opportunities for growth. As more and more consumers are switching to fiber for their broadband, it is projected that the number of IPTV subscribers will climb in markets, where FTTx deployment is powering ahead. According to the RNCOS report, Global IPTV Market Forecast to 2014, Europe is the largest and most active IPTV market; however, in the future, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to dominate the market as it will grow in terms of subscribers, service revenues, infrastructure etc. The broadband penetration of the region will fuel growth in this sector. The American market is expected to be the most competitive IPTV market in the world, largely due to high levels of existing payTV penetration, stiff prices and service competition. The number of global IPTV subscribers will rise in 2014 to around 109 Million, expanding at a CAGR of around 25% between 2011 and 2014.
offers from cable and satellite TV providers, offering comparable channels, features and price points. While the Asia-Pacific region offers the greatest opportunity for IPTV growth over the long-term, today, the Asian market is still relatively small, with a few major service providers, such as PCCW in Hong Kong and ChungHwa Telecom in Taiwan, accounting for most of the current users. The greatest challenge confronting IPTV providers in Asia may be due to the persuasion of consumers in larger markets, such as China and India, to pay more than minimal fees for access to a basic package of TV channels. Fixed broadband subscribers are anticipated to increase from 457 million at the end of 2009 to 679 million by the end of 2015, repre senting a CAGR of 7%, globally. Global penetration of households will reach 37% during this period. Continued growth is being driven by strong regulatory and government initiatives that are helping to accelerate broadband availability, as well as encourage adoption. Although, innovative services and applications, such as IPTV and Fixed Mobile Convergence (FMC), will help drive adoption, the strongest factor remains cost. From a regional perspective, the Caribbean, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and Eastern Europe will have the strongest growth during the forecast. Figure 1 shows the global number of IPTV subscribers for North America, Western Europe, and the Asia-Pacific regions from 2010 to 2014.
Analyst View
With the development of broadband, Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) has the possibility to cause a dramatic shift in telecommunication services and service providers. Telecom operators in particular have a great chance to raise customer average revenue per user (ARPU) rates. An unprecedented combination of consumer demand, technological progress and competition is driving the telecom companies and other broadband service providers into the emerging IPTV market.
March 2011
Figure 1,
Global Number of TV Households. Source RNCOS The success of IPTV will largely depend upon regional differ ences, such as business environment, local market dynamics, regula tory structure and other elements. Taking into consideration these differences, this report describes the potential of three regions; namely Europe, North America and the Asia-Pacific region. To ensure rapid growth in the future, the IPTV market should overcome the hurdle of cost, which is by far the most significant factor in the mind of cus tomers, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, where customers are highly cost-conscious. Apart from this, quality of IPTV service is of major concern and, as such, service providers need to evaluate all available options before rolling out the IPTV service.
The global IPTV market is growing at a very fast pace, largely due to the fact that the number of broadband subscribers reached more than 457 million by the end of 2009, worldwide. South Korea, Hong Kong and Japan are the world's most highly penetrated broadband markets, but countries in Europe and North America are also growing very rapidly to catch up these markets. Persistent growth is being driven by severe regulatory and government initiatives being facilitated to accelerate the availability of broadband, as well as adoption encouragement. The adoption of broadband during the early market stages has been driven by con sumers seeking to access the Internet through their PCs. However, market growth in the coming years will be shaped by the demand for non-PC-based media and communication services, such as voice over IP (VoIP) and IPTV. In the current scenario, Europe remains the most active IPTV market, globally, but in the future, it is expected that the Asia-Pacific region will largely drive the growth of IPTV market. This is a direct result of emerging economies in this region that have supportive regulatory framework, high broadband and PC penetration, and a tech nology-savvy population. IPTV market conditions vary from one market another. In Europe, France remains the largest IPTV market. At the regional level, the US remains the most competitive IPTV market, due to the presence of a well-developed pay TV market. The marketplace is increasingly demanding new digital content, and telecommunication service providers are seeking new growth areas. In addition, the pay-TV market in many countries is also reaching saturation; so IPTV providers will need to capture market shares through effective differentiation strategies based on content packaging and pricing, video on demand, interactive applications and other factors.
RNCOS specializes in Industry intelligence and creative solutions for contemporary business segments. Their professionals study and analyze the industry and its various components, with comprehensive study of the changing market behavior. They provide corporations with an insight of the 'industry, competitive and market' necessary to compete in today's business environment. Additionally, their team focuses on the cause and effect relationship between federal and state regulations and the industries affected by regulation. The company also works closely with small and medium sized consultancy firms, in various industry sectors. RNCOS assists in back-end research and data gathering processes. For more information go to www.rncos.com.
March 2011
IPTV News
today. This deep understanding of content enables blinkx to deliver the unrivaled dis covery, personalization and recommendation functionality which is critical to a successful user experience in the Connected TV environment. "blinkx is an unparalleled source for online video search and discovery through any platform. The blinkx Web API was launched five years ago and today accounts for two-thirds of our global search volume, but mobile and TV are coming on strong," said Suranga Chandratillake, founder and CEO, blinkx. "We introduced our mobile API last summer, and already it has generated significant traction with partners like Samsung and EVRI. Providing an API for TV brings blinkx into the living-room and enables our partners to tap a flourishing audience as more consumers access Web video from their TVs. In addition to search, our technology offers personalization, discovery and recommendation capabilities to integrate Web video into the Connected TV experience - functionality that's critical in the lean back TV experience, when users are less inclined to type out search queries." The new API also enables blinkx to increase its distribution footprint across more screens and drive millions of new searches through its engine. blinkx already has several significant partners in the TV space including Amino Communications, known for its award-winning IPTV and Hybrid set-top boxes, as well as Belgacom and Miniweb. These and other companies are leveraging blinkx's vast video index and software to deliver a better search, navigation and personalization experience for consumers.
BLINX Introduces TV API, Opens Online Video Indext to Technology Partners Looking to Tap Potential of Connected TV
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF.-February 2, 2011-blinkx announced the launch of a TV API (Application Programming Interface). The API is designed to provide partners in the fast-growing Connected TV ecosystem - from box makers and TV manufacturers, to app developers and game consoles - access to blinkx's index of over 35 million hours of online video. The TV API draws from the wealth of video content across the entire web - but automatically filters results based on the capabilities of the user's device - such as the video formats it supports - so that the user is always offered compatible clips. For partners, blinkx's TV API offers both efficient access to a deep, diverse source of online content from top broadcasters and media companies, and can also help solve the navigation challenge that is inherent in the lean-back experience of Connected TV. Based on technology that was perfected over 12 years at Cambridge University, blinkx uses a combination of patented conceptual search with speech and image recognition software to understand rich media more thoroughly than any other solution available
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"We continue to see rapid growth for the Android platform on a global basis as we estimate that over 15 CE device suppliers will be selling Android-based tablets by mid-2011," said Anna Hunt, principal analyst, IMS Research. "We also believe that Android will hold 15.2 percent of the tablet market in 2011 and project that this will grow to 28.4 percent in 2015." "Consumers want easy to use media experiences and at the same time are growing the number of devices they use to enjoy entertainment. Sharing among devices is complicated and must be simplified to meet market demand," said Corey Ferengul, executive vice president of product management and mar keting for Rovi Corporation. "Pre-porting Connected Platform on the Android platform is a significant step in bridging this gap in the Android ecosystem, enabling device manu facturers to easily integrate robust, standardsbased connected device capabilities into their mobile offerings."
Amazon Prime Members Now Get Unlimited, Commercial-free, Instant Streaming of More Than 5,000 Movies and TV Shows at No Additional Cost
SEATTLE, Feb 22, 2011 --Amazon.com, Inc. announced the launch of a new benefit for Amazon Prime members: unlimited, commercial-free, instant streaming of more than 5,000 movies and TV shows. This new bene-
fit is being added at no additional cost -Prime membership will continue to be $79 per year. Amazon Prime's all-you-can-eat free Two-Day Shipping has already attracted millions of members.Movies and TV shows included with an Amazon Prime membership can be watched instantly on Macs, PCs and nearly 200 models of Internet-connected TVs, Blu-ray players and set-top boxes that are compatible with Amazon Instant Video. Amazon Prime is a membership pro gram that offers customers unlimited free Two-Day Shipping with no minimum pur chase requirement for only $79 a year. Millions of items are eligible, including books, home and garden products, electronics, video games, clothing, accessories and beauty products. With the introduction of Prime instant videos, free trial and paid Amazon Prime members in the U.S. now also have unlimited instant access to more than 5,000 videos. Amazon Instant Video is a digital video service that offers customers more than 90,000 commercial-free movies and televi sion shows to buy or rent on an a la carte basis. New-release movies are often available as soon as they are released on DVD, and many TV shows are available the day after their first broadcast. Amazon Instant Video also offers thousands of movies and TV shows in high definition. With Amazon Instant Video, customers can watch instantly on Macs, PCs, and nearly 200 Internet con nected TVs, Blu-ray players, and set-top boxes. "In addition to now offering unlimited, commercial-free, instant streaming of 5,000 movies and TV shows to Amazon Prime members, we continue to offer all customers more than 90,000 movies and TV shows through Amazon Instant Video," said Cameron Janes, director of Amazon Instant Video. "With Amazon Instant Video cus tomers can rent or purchase hit movies, such as 'The Social Network' as well as purchase the latest TV shows available the day-after they broadcast."
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Internet TV Systems
This article is Part 5 of a 10 Part Series Internet TV Systems List Internet TV Station Internet TV Services Internet TV Viewing Devices System Equipment Internet TV Station Hosting Media Formats and Conversion Content Acquisition and Licensing Station Operation and Programming Internet TV Economics Internet TV Regulations Custom Internet TV System
A custom Internet TV system is a group of equipment that is selected and combined to provide TV broadcasting services through the Internet. Custom Internet TV systems can use a mixture of functional components, software applications and services from different ven dors. Developing a custom Internet TV system allows for a choice of devices that can have more features and, potentially, the lowest system and operational costs, provided the number of customers is sufficient. A key challenge with custom Internet TV systems is the delivery of support service solutions in situations that involve multiple vendors, as vendors have a tendency to blame others for any issues or problems. Figure 1 shows some of the options for InternetTV systems. The hosting option allows an Internet TV station to setup and run the system from an administrative terminal. All the equipment that is neces-
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Internet TV Hosting
A hosted Internet TV system is storage and transmission equipment that is owned by one company, which can be used by other companies to manage and broadcast its content through the Internet (a virtual TV system). Using other companies to provide TV storage and transmission services can enable companies to have very low startup costs and a quick operation setup time. The common challenge of using hosted Internet TV systems is limited customization options.
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Figure 1, Internet TV System Options sary to manage media, perform billing and playout media is owned and maintained by the Internet TV system host company. The inte grated Internet TV station option uses a complete hardware system (usually several pieces of equipment in a rack) that includes media management, billing and playout functions. The custom option allows the Internet TV station to use separate equipment for media management, billing and playout scheduling.
Content Management
Content management processes provided by Internet TV hosting systems include online editing systems that allow Internet TV providers to label, select and create media segments to produce programs.
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Playout System
Hosted playout systems allow providers to select, schedule and control how media programs are transmitted. Programs may be selected according to program ID, title or other identifying information. Hosted playout systems may also allow for the selection of media format and resolution as this influences the amount of bandwidth used, which the Internet TV provider usually pays for. Choosing a lower resolution format reduces the transmission cost.
Subscriber Management
A subscriber management portal allows the Internet TV provider to add, setup and remove subscribers who are provided access to the Internet TV system. Some subscriber management functions may be performed directly by the subscribers, such as account setup. The subscriber management system may be connected to a billing system, which allows customers to be charged for their access to Internet TV programs or services.
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provider to add, setup and remove customers. The administration portal can be used to setup the overall settings (such as bandwidth allocation) for the manage portion of the system.
Media Encoders
Media encoders are devices that can convert (encode) the format of media into another format (typically digital). Media encoders may be used to ingest content (from video tape, DVD or files) and convert it into one or more formats (SD, HD, mobile video). While the input and output formats for media encoders may be standardized, the actual encoding process can dramatically vary, producing video with different quality levels. Media encoders analyze input media and create coded versions of it. Encoders with more processing capability (analyze more) the use more advanced coding algorithms can produce much higher video quality. In addition to the processing capabilities of media encoders, the optional settings can affect quality levels. More advanced (and expensive) media encoders tend to produce higher quality video.
Pre-Configured Equipment
An integrated Internet TV system utilizes multiple pieces of equip ment that are tested and validated to ensure they will operate with one another. The system may be setup at the vendor's facility to be ready for operation. Some settings, such as the Internet address, network names and specific service settings, may need to be configured on location.
Playout System
A playout system consists of computer servers that can select and transfer media to viewers. Media servers may be designed and setup to simply transfer files, or they may be created to provide continuous (streaming) services. A standard media server must transfer a significant amount of media before viewers can see the program, while a streaming server can broadcast media to viewers upon request. This means that playout systems may be created by using a combination of file servers and streaming media servers.
Support Services
The ready-to-use system may include support services such as configuration, training and updating. Training and operational procedures may be provided to ensure the Internet TV provider's staff can develop the skills necessary to operate the system. Maintenance and update services may be provided such as equipment repairs, software patches and new service upgrades.
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types of equipment and processes to ensure that the broadcast can be reliably transmitted (backup connections), that it contains desired content and that any undesired media (restricted content) has been eliminated.
Systems Integrators
Developing a custom Internet TV system allows for the choice of the best equipment and software options for each function. It also requires that these devices and software programs are setup to work with one another. The skills and experience that is required can be substantial so Internet TV providers may use a systems integrator. A systems inte grator is a company or person that assists with the definition, selection, combination and configuration of multiple types of systems to operate together to perform specific functions and/or services. Systems integrators commonly setup and test multiple types of equipment and software programs. They are typically experienced, and know which devices work well together. Systems integrators may also represent equipment vendors, allowing them to purchase equipment at lower cost. The reduced cost of equipment may offset the cost of hiring a system integration company.
Billing System
A billing system is the combination of equipment and software that can gather billing related information, apply a value to it (rating), and collect fees (invoicing). TV billing systems combine traditional accounting systems with additional billing functions. This includes the use of monitoring equipment and mediation devices that can identify, gather and create billing event records, advertising rating systems and tax processing. Billing systems must also link (integrate) to other systems, such as sales and customer care.
Software Programs
Some of the software programs that are used in Internet TV systems include content management, media production (editing), databases (subscribers, equipment), operations (sales and customer relationship management), and middleware that can link the customer equipment to the Internet TV system.
Article Source: How to Setup and Run Internet TV Systems $34.99 printed $29.99 eBook
Featured Article
Pre-Production Planning for Video
By: Drew Becker, Convey Media Group
Creating promotional videos is an exciting, challenging and rewarding experience. The experience should be approached in three stages: 1.Planning 2. Shooting 3. Distribution The planning stage is vital. Following planning, you will shoot and distribute the video. Most newcomers to video focus on the shooting stage, which includes production, direction and editing. The final part of the project is distribution in which you publish and leverage your video on the web. The critical planning stage should consume 40-60% of the time and effort for a promotional video project. Proper planning will save many hours in the next two stages. Writing your plan will make it more concrete and easier to implement as you proceed through the rest of the project.
Think about what you have to offer and how you want your customers to perceive your offering. Making a list of key points is helpful in determining how to proceed. With these branding considerations in mind, you are ready to move to the next step.
news@iptvmagazine.com
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With these questions answered you are ready to begin writing your script. One simple way to create a script is to make a list of questions and craft answers to those questions. Once you have brainstormed these main points, take time to organize them for the best reception by your audience. For a two-minute video you will need to write about a page-and-a half. Once you have completed this step you may want to build a storyboard. A storyboard is a set of pictures or illustrations to demonstrate how each scene in the video might look. This set of pictures arranged for maximum impact can then be followed as the video is being shot. Of course, the script and storyboard may change as you shoot. As a result is it prudent to have a clear idea before putting the presenter on camera. This preparation makes the video experience much easier.
Plan Ahead
Like most projects, planning ahead for promotional video production can save you frustration, time and money. Unforeseen circumstances often surface during shooting. If you have planned ahead, these can typically be handled as you go. Without pre-planning, these situations may undermine the entire project and annoy all the parties involved. Make your promotional video experience pleasant by getting ready before you step behind the camera.
Drew Becker is a producer/director/writer and the president of Convey Media Group. His branding and marketing experience is the foundation of the company's successful video productions. Convey Media Group creates and produces highquality promotional videos to extend clients' branding. Using the power of New-Media through the internet, video and social media, the company increases client visibility and customer acquisition. For more information, go to www.conveymediagroup.com or email info@conveymediagroup.com
March 2011
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Product Review
Wearable Video Cam Device Simplifies Live TV and Video Blog Production
By: Michael Sommer
Being a live video reporter just got a bit easier thanks to a wearable video camera from Looxcie. Kimberly Sauceda from Looxcie demonstrated to me at the CES show a wearable video cam device that connects to a mobile phone via Bluetooth. The mobile phone can retransmit the live video and audio signal to a viewing audience. The Looxcie video cam comes with a bendable earloop that holds it so it points where you are looking. It includes a reversible earplug so it can be used on either ear. The Looxcie includes a stability feature that keeps the video level while you are streaming video. The Looxie has a smartphone application that can be used on an Android or iPhone which includes a viewfinder so you can see what your Looxcie is capturing. It includes an instant clip feature that allows you to capture and share the last 30 seconds of viewed content. This can be important if some amazing event happened, you can instantly upload it to Facebook, Twitter, YouTube or email it to your friends or family.
The Looxie weighs approximately 1 oz., has a battery life of up to 4 hours of continuous video cam, or 30 frames per second, 480p high quality video. When the Looxcie is only used as a Bluetooth headset, the battery life is up to 10 hours. Looxcie is the creator of a mobile-connected wearable camcorder that allows consumers the freedom to be active participants in the moments theyre recording and share them on the go. The wearable camcorder, featuring a fully functional video camera integrated with Bluetooth connectivity to mobile devices, enables continuous recording of the last five hours of video. Looxcie video can be clipped, saved, viewed and instantly shared via the smartphone in real time. The Looxcie wearable video camcorder is available at BestBuy.com, Amazon.com and Radio Shack. For more information, go to www.looxcie.com.
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Buyers Guide
TV Research Companies
A television research company specializes in gathering, analyzing and interpreting data about the television marketplace, such as technology trends and viewership. A television research company is often hired by another company to conduct market analysis and determine how to become more profitable and demand for a certain type of programming, product or service.
Bizminer
BizMiner is a leading online provider of industry financial analysis and market research. BizMiner has built its reputation on quality, granular industry research and data development which reports on more than 16,000 lines of business in national and local markets. 2601 Market Street Camp Hill, PA 17011 866-863-9853 www.bizminer.com
Childwise
CHILDWISE are leading research specialists on children, young people and their families. Established in 1991, CHILDWISE works for government agencies, charities, broadcasters, publishers and brands.The majority of our research is carried out on an ad-hoc basis for individual clients covering both qualitative and quantitative projects. We span the age range from pre-school to late teens and our research also extends to those involved with children including parents, grandparents, teachers and other professionals. Queens House 123-129 Queens Road NORWICH NR1 3PL United Kingdom Tel: (01603) 630054 Email: research@childwise.co.uk
and financial analysts turn to comScore for the industry-leading solutions needed to craft successful digital, marketing, sales, product development and trading strategies. 11950 Democracy Drive Suite 600 Reston, VA 20190 Tel: +1 703 438 2000 Fax: +1 703 438 2051 www.comscore.com
Datamonitor
The Datamonitor Group is a world-leading provider of premium global business information, delivering independent data, analysis and opinion across the Automotive, Consumer Packaged Goods, Energy & Sustainability, Financial Services, Logistics & Express, Pharmaceutical & Healthcare, Retail, Sourcing, Technology and Telecoms indus tries. Delivered online via our user-friendly web platforms, their market intelligence products and services ensure that you will achieve your desired commercial goals by giving you the insight you need to best respond to your competitive environment. 119 Farringdon Road London EC1R 3DA 020 7551 9000 www.datamonitor.com
Broadband Forum
The Broadband Forum is the central body for end-to-end multi-service architecture devel opment and network specifications. This organization, comprising around 200 mem bers of the world's leading service providers, equipment manufacturers, chip vendors and other key organizations, defines next generation solutions for access, mobile backhaul, business services, IPTV, gaming and other applications, and is poised to address further developments as they arise. 48377 Fremont Blvd, Suite 117 Fremont, CA 94538 Main Phone: +1.510.492.4020 Fax: +1.510.492.4001 www.broadband-forum.org.
Comscore
comScore is a global leader in measuring the digital world and the preferred source of digital marketing intelligence. comScore enables clients to better understand, leverage and profit from the rapidly evolving worldwide web and mobile arena. comScore provides syndicated and custom solutions in online audience measurement, e-commerce, adver tising, search, video and mobile and offers dedicated analysts with digital marketing and vertical-specific industry expertise. Advertising agencies, publishers, marketers
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areas of technology research, market research, economic research, corporate best practices, training, customer research, com petitive intelligence, and corporate strategy. 7550 IH 10 West, Suite 400 San Antonio, TX 78229-5616 USA Tel:+1.877.463.7678 Fax: +1.888.690.3329 www.frost.com
Futurescape
Futurescape provides leading global compa nies with thought-provoking and incisive analysis of disruption and innovation in digital media and television.Its reports are bought by international advertising and media agencies, TV broadcasters and producers, cable, satellite and mobile operators, media owners, publishers, industry analysts and government agencies. www.futurescape.tv
understand format, providing hard-to-find answers to top market research questions. IBISWorld Industry Reports are used for understanding market size, competitors, drafting business plans, pitch books, bench marking, forecasting, business valuations, litigation support, due diligence and more. 401 Wilshire Blvd Suite 200 Santa Monica, CA 90401 www.ibisworld.com
ICON
ICON Group International is one of the world's largest publisher of global market research and business intelligence. It does so with the heavy use of econometric models and techniques, which produce high value international research and reports. These high-end reports and exportable spreadsheets cover 2,000 product categories across some 200 countries, 2,000 cities and over 16,000 companies. 9606 Tierra Grande St., Suite 205 San Diego, CA 92126 USA Fax: (858) 635-9414 www.icongrouponline.com
eMarketer
By aggregating, filtering and organizing data from over 4,000 global sources, eMarketer provides its customers with a level of confi dence far greater than a single source ever could. eMarketer's analysts and researchers put the data into context covering all aspects of the market with overviews, insights and analysis that can't be found anywhere else. 75 Broad Street 31nd Floor New York, NY 10004 Tel: +1-212-763-6010 Fax: +1-212-763-6020 www.emarketer.com
G2Mi
G2Mi is an online information and analysis service for the global media industry. The service offers rapid and efficient access to comprehensive, up to date intelligence on media companies, sectors and transactions. Combining a highly effective search tool with an online database of business critical infor mation and analysis, G2Mi provides relevant, essential industry insights to its users. 147, Dalling Road London W6 0ET United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 208 180 7223 www.g2mi.com
IDATE
IDATE is one of Europe's foremost market analysis and consulting firms, whose mission is to provide assistance in strategic decisionmaking for its clients in the Telecom, Internet and Media industries. IDATE has also been instrumental in providing a forum for debate amongst the markets' key players. 4167 - 34092 Montpellier cedex 5 - FRANCE Tel: 33 (0)467 144 444 Fax: 33 (0)467 144 400 www.idate.org
IBISWorld
As the one of the world's largest independent publisher of U.S. industry research, IBISWorld's team of expert analysts covers 700 different market segments. Each industry report is presented in an objective, easy to
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IDC
International Data Corporation (IDC) is the a global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, and events for the information technology, telecommunications, and con sumer technology markets. IDC helps IT professionals, business executives, and the investment community make fact-based decisions on technology purchases and business strategy. More than 1000 IDC analysts pro vide global, regional, and local expertise on technology and industry opportunities and trends in over 110 countries worldwide. 5 Speen Street Framingham, MA 01701 USA +1.508.872.8200 www.idc.com
W1T 3JH Tel: +44 (0)20 7017 5537 Fax: +44 (0)20 7017 4947 www.informatm.com
MRG
MRG publishes market analyses of new technologies for the communications industries, and provides market intelligence and strategy consulting for its client companies. MRG provides long-term market strategy, analysis, and intelligence services over a 6-60 month period. With this service, the MRG team provides unique ongoing analysis of company-specific problems. 1754 Technology Drive, Suite 132 San Jose, CA 95110 U.S.A. Phone: 1-408-453-5553 Fax: 1-408-453-5559 www.mrgco.com
In-Stat
In-Stat's market intelligence combines technical, market and end-user research and data base models to analyze the Mobile Internet and Digital Entertainment ecosystems. Their insights are derived from a deep understanding of technology impacts, nearly 30 years of history in research and consulting, and direct relationships with leading players in each of our core markets. In-Stat provides its research through reports, annual subscriptions, con sulting and advisory services to inform critical decisions. Technology vendors, equipment manufacturers, service providers and media companies worldwide rely on In-Stat to support critical business, product and technology decisions. 14646 N. Kierland Blvd., #100 Scottsdale, AZ 85254 www.instat.com
Informa Telecom
Media
and
Nielsen
As a global leader in measurement and information. Nielsen covers emerging market trends and the increasingly diverse, demanding and connected consumer. Nielsen pro vides the complete view of what consumers watch and buy through powerful insights that clarify the relationship between content and commerce. Whether their clients are in media, consumer packaged goods, telecom or adver-
Informa Telecoms & Media delivers strategic insight founded on global market data and primary research. They work in partnership with our clients, informing their decision-making with practical services supported by analysts. Mortimer House 37/41 Mortimer Street London
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tising, our expansive data and measurement capabilities provide market context and confidence through our long history of innovation and integrity. 770 Broadway New York, NY 10003-9595 United States www.nielsen.com
communications, media and technology industries. Their market analysis, powered by our bottom-up methodology of our forecasts for more than 100 countries, is uniquely positioned across emerging markets, emerging technologies, and emerging business models. 600 Harrison Street, 6th floor San Francisco, CA 94107 415-947-6464 www.pyramidresearch.com
Snapshots
Snapshots has been publishing reliable global market reports for over 12 years, serving many of the world's leading blue chip companies. Snapshots clients rely upon the breadth of market data available, and the ease with which they can quickly understand an unknown market. Each Snapshots report is written by an established international inhouse team of research analysts. 18-19 Long Lane, London EC1A 9PL United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 20 7778 7111 Fax: +44 (0) 20 7600 3802 www.snapdata.com
RNCOS
RNCOS is a leading market research and information analysis company with a global presence. They focus on delivering high quality research services to business professionals, organizations and individuals, thus supporting in maximizing success from the current industry information.RNCOS provides first-hand information and prudent analysis on various industries, technologies, economic and non-economic market parameters, potential markets, and key competitors in the industry and give rational forecast on market trends to help clients identify prospective growth areas and gain competitive edge. www.rncos.com
TDG
TDG is an analyst and market strategy firm focused on the emerging digital media ecosystem from the broadband connection to the home network to the devices and services being enabled. TDG helps their clients understand and plan for the market and technological issues, what consumers think and how they will respond, and the strategic opportunities presented for their firms. 9555 Lebanon Road | Suite 701 Frisco, Texas 75035 469.287.8050 www.tdgresearch.com
Point Topic
Point Topic Ltd provides focused informa tion on broadband communications services. It provides subscribers with regularly updated online databases and reports about broadband services around the world. 61 Gray's Inn Road London WC1X 8TL UK Tel: +44 (0)20 3301 3303 http://point-topic.com/index.php Pyramid Research Pyramid Research has been providing practical advice on emerging market and service opportunities to leaders in the converged
Screen Digest
Screen Digest is widely regarded as the one of the world's leading media-focused research, publishing and consulting company. The company employs 50 analysts, working across the entire traditional and emerging media content and distribution technology value chain, for music, movies, TV, games and digital media. Lymehouse Studios, 30/31 Lyme Street, London, NW1 0EE Tel: +44 (0) 207 4242 820
IPTV Magazine Buyers Guides are provided free of charge as a service to our readers. IPTV Magazine is not responsible for errors or omissions, nor for company supplied responses. If your company or a company that you know of is not listed and you believe it should be included, please contact us at buyersguide@iptvmagazine.com or call us at 1-919-557-2260.
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New Products
Video Processing Vaddio Squiggle Video Whiteboard Kit
The Vaddio Squiggle Video Whiteboard Kit can transform any whiteboard into a video whiteboard. Capable of being installed alongside just about any existing whiteboard, Squiggle converts your whiteboard notes into an SD or HD video signal compatible with any video device. The portable enclosure screws into the wall on the left side of the whiteboard. A Cat. 5 cable then runs from the enclosure to the QuickConnect at the head-end for plugging into your video device. One-Touch Image Save allows you to save your notes as a JPEG on a USB Flash Drive.
Mailing Address: 9433 Science Center Drive, New Hope, MN 55428, United States Tel:+1-763-971-4400 Fax: +1-763-971-4464 www.vaddio.com
Mailing Address:235 Alma Street,The Garage, Palo Alto, CA 94301, United States www.intonow.com
For Information about advertising in IPTV Magazine please contact Sales at: Phone +1-919-557-2260 or Email: Sales@IPTVMagazine.com
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Mailing Address: 2768 Loker Avenue West Carlsbad, CA 9201 Tel: +1-760-438-5533 www.visioneeringcorp.com
Mailing Address: 3499, Douglas-B.-Floreani, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H4S 2C6 Tel: +1-514-333-1772 Fax: +1-514-333-9828 www.miranda.com.
IPTV Magazine New Products are provided free of charge as a service to our readers. IPTV Magazine is not responsible for errors or omissions, nor for company supplied responses. If your company or a company that you know of is not listed and you believe it should be included, please contact us at info@iptvmagazine.com or call us at 1-919-557-2260.
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Event Schedule
If you know of an event that may be helpful to the readers of IP Television Magazine, please send details to: editorial@IPTVMagazine.com or call us at 1-919-557-2260.
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Advertiser Index
www.IPTVDictionary.com
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Editorial Calendar
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