Netgem confirms reports that it will be supplying TalkTalk’s next generation TV service, a move that officially heralds the end of TalkTalk’s relationship with YouView.
The new 4K UHD compatible TalkTalk TV service will based on the Netgem TV platform. Netgem TV combines Freeview DVB-T/T2 channels with a growing number of additional streaming services and apps. These include BT Sport and La Liga TV.
Netgem already works with 15 operator in the UK, carving a niche in providing TV services for broadband operators to sell to consumers.
Meanwhile, over the past three years, TalkTalk has been winding down its existing YouView-based TV service. It has not pursued any carriage deals that would add any new channels, nor HD simulcasts of existing channels. Last year, it contacted its existing customers confirming plans to withdraw its channel boosts. However, TalkTalk YouView boxes in circulation can continue to be used to receive Freeview and streaming services.
TalkTalk’s YouView-based service was launched in 2012 in partnership with BT and the UK’s main free-to-air broadcasters. The platform continues to power BT TV’s service.
Announcing the new partnership with TalkTalk, Mathias Hautefort, CEO of Netgem, said:
“This new contract with TalkTalk Group demonstrates the relevance of Netgem’s unique positioning in the fast-growing connected entertainment market. Netgem, thanks to its fully operated NetgemTV platform already market-tested with several operators in Britain in particular, and its expertise for running agreements with the main TV channels and the rising number of OTT content providers, intends to continue to expand its Content-as-a-Service model with Tier 1 operators.”