• Unicoms Services launches end-to-end, hosted OTT service for pay-TV operators tapping turn-key OTT streaming platform Conax GO Live and Appear TV processing technology supporting Android and iOS devices

Oslo, Norway, March 27^th , 2017 – Conax, part of the Kudelski Group (SIX:KUD:S), and a leader in content and service protection for pay-TV and digital entertainment services worldwide, and Appear TV, a leading global provider of next-generation video processing platforms, today announced that Bulgaria’s Unicoms Services has deployed its UnyQTV hosted OTT platform for pay-TV operators deploying advanced technology provided by Conax and Appear TV.

A Conax customer since 2010, the new platform supports Unicoms services expansion into the OTT arena, supported by award-winning, feature-rich OTT streaming platform Conax GO Live, pre-integrated with Appear TV’s premium content processing platform. Unicoms Services is already hosting over 50 operators from the Balkans region with Conax Contego conditional access and is the first professional white label OTT solution available in Bulgaria.

The UnyQTV platform enables two business models: (i) a white label technical solution that allows for simple rebranding leveraging the operator’s existing assets and (ii) the UnyQTV “Revenue Share” model. The latter provides a complete pay-TV operator ecosystem for low-risk entry to OTT services, significantly reducing operating cost and investment for quickly launching Live-TV channels on smartphones and tablets, including support for catch-up TV. The Conax GO Live OTT platform provides a user-friendly app and exceptionally fast deployment. The Unicoms Services hosted solution offers mid to smaller DVB-C, DTH and IPTV operators a Live-TV offering enabling subscribers access to over 60 of the most popular Bulgarian and foreign channels.

On March 30^th, at the TV Connect Conference in London, Nastya Popova, Executive Director, Unicoms Trading, and Einar Vågmo, Director Product Management Multiscreen at Conax will share a comprehensive customer case study and valuable insights on “Speeding Up Time-to-Market with Pre-Integrated OTT Solutions” during the Morning Plenary session (11am).

“The TV screen is no longer just the traditional TV set,” confirms Nastya Popova, Executive Director, Unicoms Trading. Smart devices have become a part of daily life, with consumers demanding new applications of traditional TV services. Tapping the agility of the Conax and Appear TV technology, the new UnyQTV cloud OTT platform enables small and mid-size operators to compete with and best offerings on the market, providing secure, rapid deployment of value-added services – at an affordable price. Operators can tap an OPEX based model to deploy highly desirable OTT content without initial upfront hardware investments and expertise or offering the UnyQTV application’s “revenue share” model.”

-Daniel Johansson, EVP Global Sales & Marketing, Conax, “In a market eager to access live content on a variety of devices, Conax and Appear TV are helping Unicoms Services provide their service operators with a viable, user-friendly over-the-top content distribution service they can earn money on. The hosted platform enables operators to rapidly deploy OTT services and stream content securely. By making it easy for viewers to consume desired content legally and at an affordable price also reduces competition from illegal streaming services.”

“OTT not only offers the most flexible way of delivering content to any device, but does so via a range of new business models, offering significant potential for monetization. The partnership between Conax and Appear TV delivers complete, highly functional and expandable solutions that make OTT deployment easy by design, since every component is pre-tested and pre-integrated – that transforms OTT delivery into a simple, quick time to market option.   Rather than battle with technology, this frees customers to concentrate on delivering high quality, highly innovative new services such as the UnyQTV Cloud OTT platform”, says Carl Walter Holst, CEO, Appear TV.

About UNICOMS Trading Ltd.

Founded in 1992, UNICOMS TRADING is a trusted and reliable partner and system integrator for major Telecom, Cable TV, Satellite TV and Internet companies in Bulgaria and Balkan region for 25 years. Headquartered in Sofia, the company is specialized in providing all kind of active and passive equipment for building broadband communication systems, HFC, LAN/MAN, FTTH and PON networks, headend equipment, design, installation, hosting and other services. UNICOMS SERVICES is 100% subsidiary company of Unicoms Trading LTD operating as a service provider, hosting solutions provider and OTT/IPTV operator; UnyQTV is the brand name of the service provided by Unicoms Services for streaming live TV to iOS and Android devices in an OTT environment. www.unicomstrading.com

About Conax

A part of the Kudelski Group (SIX:KUD:S), Conax is a leading global specialist in service protection for digital TV and entertainment services via broadcast, broadband and connected devices. Based on the Conax Contego security back-end, Conax’ future-ready technology offers modular, fast-time-to-market solutions that enable easy entry into a world of secure multiscreen, multi-DRM content delivery and secures rights for premium content delivery to a range of devices over new hybrid network combinations. Conax spotlight technology includes the Contego-as-a-Service cloud-based platform, award-winning “Conax GO Live” live TV streaming, benchmark multi DRM protection and the Conax Connected Access connected IPTV security client combining Conditional Access and DRM security in a single client. Headquartered in Oslo, Norway, ISO 9001 & 27001 certified Conax technology enables secure content revenues for 425 operators in 85 countries globally. For more information, please visit www.conax.com  and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook to join the conversation.

About Appear TV
Appear TV is based in Oslo, Norway, and has recently opened an additional office in Bangkok, Thailand. The company produces world-class equipment that enables operators to deliver professional broadcast services to millions of users around the globe. The company is dedicated to developing reliable, revenue-generating and innovative solutions for operators looking to deliver real-time content to the home. Appear TV head-ends are designed for modularity, high density, and flexibility. www.appeartv.com

 

Conax media contact
Leslie Johnsen
Head of Public Relations & Communications

Mob: +47 41 45 80 43
Email: leslie.johnsen@conax.com

Appear TV contact:
Nicolay Schweigaard
Communications Manager
nicolay.schweigaard@appeartv.com

Appear TV PR contact:
Lisa Belli
D. Pagan Communications, Inc.
lisab@dpagan.com

Achieves the certification by Great Place to Work® Institute, India

Mumbai, India, March 27, 2017: Leading Indian content company, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) today announced that it has achieved the certification as a Great Place to Work® by the Great Place to Work® Institute, India. The Great Place to Work® framework assesses an organization on employee perception through Trust Index© dimensions namely, Credibility, Respect, Camaraderie, Pride and Fairness. It further evaluates and benchmarks people practices through Culture Audit©. Based on this framework, it was revealed that Zee Entertainment had significantly positive employee perception and robust people practices, which identified it as an organization with a Great Culture.

Speaking on this noteworthy achievement, Mr. Punit Goenka, MD & CEO, ZEEL said, “My heartiest congratulations to the team on ZEE being certified as a Great Place to Work®. At ZEE, we consider our employees as our most valued asset and this certification only goes to reinforce the fact that we are taking focused and proactive steps in nurturing our talent.”

Elaborating further, Mr. Praveer Priyadarshi, Chief People Officer, ZEEL said, “With the Group philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – The World Is My Family” woven into the fabric of ZEE culture, we believe in fostering the growth and development of every member of the ZEE family. Our Human Resources practice at ZEE has been instrumental in driving this change and providing constant support to businesses by creating collaborative working relationships through our SAMWAD philosophy, talent-based hiring, rewarding through robust performance management processes, recognizing top performers through our Employee Recognition Program – ‘Zeelompics’, identification, development and nurturing of our talent through our High-Potential Development Program – ‘ACE’. Our global presence provides our employees an opportunity to perform and demonstrate their talent effectively in diverse markets and cultural context.”

Commending ZEE on the certification, Mr. Prasenjit Bhattacharya, CEO, Great Place to Work® Institute, India said, “ZEE has striven to develop a High-Trust, High-Performance Culture™ and has been Great Place to Work-Certified™. This certification showcases ZEE’s dedication to winning its employees’ trust and creating a great workplace. It is part of their efforts to build an organization where employees trust the people they work for, have pride in what they do, and enjoy the company of the people they work with.”

Every year, over 8000 companies from across 50 countries participate in the certification program conducted by the Great Place to Work® Institute. Great Place to Work® Institute blends an analysis of the employees’ workplace experience through the Trust Index Survey, along with an assessment of the organisation’s processes and practices via a Culture Audit. In addition, this year, representatives from Great Place to Work® Institute, India had visited the ZEE office in Mumbai and interacted with employees to understand their work experiences at ZEE to get a first-hand experience of the organisation’s culture and processes, for the purpose of benchmarking against other organizations across industries.

==============================ENDS=================================

 

Note to Editors

About Great Place to Work®:

Great Place to Work® has conducted pioneering research on the characteristics of great workplaces for over 25 years and is considered the gold standard for assessing and certifying great workplace cultures. It believes that all organizations can become great workplaces, and it’s their mission is to help them succeed. Great Place To Work® partners more than 8000 organizations every year around the world to help create and sustain a High-Trust, High-Performance Culture™ and get Great Place to Work-Certified™.

 

About Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL):

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited, is one of the leading global content companies. With an extensive content library housing over 222,000+ hours of television content and rights to more than 3,818 movie titles from foremost studios and of iconic film stars, ZEE entertains over One Billion viewers across 171+ countries. ZEE has a strong presence across the media and entertainment value chain including Broadcasting, Films, Digital, Theatre, LIVE Events & Talent. ZEE also operates multiple digital offerings like Ditto TV, OZEE and India.com.

More information about ZEE and its businesses is available on www.zeetelevision.com.

 

Official Social Media Platforms:

Twitter                 :               ZEECorporate/Twitter.com

Facebook            :               ZEECorporate/Facebook.com

LinkedIn               :               Linkedin.com/Company/ZEECorporate

 

=============================================================================

Media Contact:

Jayshree Kumar / Arantxa Gonsalves

Corporate Communications – Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL)

Mobile: +91 9769286661 /9820336890

Email: jayshree.kumar@zee.esselgroup.com / arantxa.gonsalves@zee.esselgroup.com

The prestigious critics’ choice award selected the short as the best case study in the Animated Frames category

MUMBAI, INDIA (March 27, 2017) – Turner has won critical acclaim for Lamput at FICCI Frames 2017 as the Best Case Study in the Animated Frames category.

The original series, which features a gooey orange nutcase that outwits a pair of hapless doctors, has received praise for its ability to tell multiple stories and inspire laughter.

Lamput is created by Mumbai-based Vaibhav Studios and has been on-air, online and on-app since 2016 in Asia Pacific on Cartoon Network and POGO, and worldwide on Boomerang, Turner’s second flagship kids channel.

Mark Eyers, Chief Content Officer for Turner’s Kids Networks in Asia Pacific, commented: “We couldn’t be happier for this little orange character who has truly sparked to life over the last year to delight kids everywhere. This award demonstrates the depth of talent in India and how a simple idea can be transformed into something shown on screens around the world.”

This is three years in a row that Turner original content has been shortlisted at FICCI Frames. Cartoon Network won Best Animated Film for its Roll No. 21 – Kris in Bollywood in 2016 and Best Animated Film for Roll No. 21 – Ticket to Australia the year before.

Lamput was greenlit by Turner Asia Pacific’s virtual studio as part of Cartoon Network’s shorts programme, which connects artists, animators, writers and studios from around the region.

Delve into the world of Lamput and his escapades here: https://youtu.be/onYw0POzs5s.

-ENDS-

 

About Cartoon Network Asia Pacific

Turner’s Cartoon Network, the number one kids’ channel in Asia Pacific, offers the best in original animated content including the multi-award-winning global hits Ben 10, The Powerpuff Girls, Regular Show, The Amazing World of Gumball, Adventure Time and We Bare Bears.

Cartoon Network is available in 29 countries throughout Asia Pacific and is currently seen in more than 135 million pay-TV homes. Internationally, it is seen in 192 countries and over 370 million homes, and is an industry leader with a global offering of the best in award-winning animated entertainment for kids and families.

The brand is known for putting its fans at the center of everything by applying creative thinking and innovation across multiple platforms. Cartoon Network also reaches millions more through its websites, games and apps, including Cartoon Network Watch and Play and Cartoon Network Anything. Cartoon Network, sister company to Boomerang, POGO and Toonami, is a brand created and distributed by Turner, a Time Warner Company.

 

About Turner Asia Pacific

Turner Asia Pacific creates and distributes award-winning brands throughout the region, running 61 channels in 14 languages in 42 countries. These include CNN International, CNNj, CNN, HLN, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Boomerang, POGO, Toonami, Warner TV, Oh!K, TCM Turner Classic Movies, truTV, MondoTV, TABI Channel, and HBO, HBO HD and WB in South Asia. Turner manages the business of Pay- and Free-TV-channels, as well as Internet-based services, and oversees commercial partnerships with various third-party media ventures; it teams with Warner Bros. and HBO to leverage Time Warner’s global reach. Turner Broadcasting System Asia Pacific, Inc. (“Turner Asia Pacific”) is a Time Warner company.

 

For further information, contact:

James Moore, Turner Asia Pacific

+852 3128-3720 / james.moore@turner.com

Irdeto Rights for China DRM with TEE integration is the first-ever hardware-protected ecosystem for China DRM that will give operators more control and confidence to launch premium content services   

CHINA, CCBN, 23 March 2017 – Irdeto has announced the successful integration of Irdeto Rights for China DRM with Amlogic’s S905X, S905D, and S912 system on chips (SoCs). These SoCs are equipped with advanced security features that enable integration with trusted execution environment (TEE).

With this first hardware-protected ecosystem for China DRM in the industry, operators in China and content owners benefit from having full control and confidence to launch premium content services that support Hollywood studios high value early releases as well as 4K/UHD content.

China is forecasted to have the largest market share for over-the-top (OTT) TV and video revenues in Asia Pacific ($7.9 billion) by 2021, according to a research by Digital TV Research.

“As global video-on-demand services grow, China is emerging as one of the largest markets for OTT demand and new offerings, especially for premium content services,” said James Xie, Vice President, Corporate Business Strategy at Amlogic. “We are delighted to integrate our TEE hardware with Irdeto Rights for China DRM, to bring the highest form of security for 4K/UHD content to operators in China and content owners. We are also confident that our collaboration with Irdeto will instill greater confidence for the studios to invest more in the Chinese market.”

“With the anticipated growth in OTT, our partnership with Amlogic will facilitate the availability of premium content for the Chinese audience and meet the growing demand,” said Marco Xie, General Manager, China, Irdeto. “With a world-class level of security for delivery platforms, content owners can accelerate the release of new content and explore new business models to generate greater revenues from premium content offerings for the Chinese audience.”

As part of the Irdeto 360 security suite, Irdeto launched Irdeto Rights for China DRM, the first-ever Chinese government-approved and Hollywood studios-validated DRM solution last year. It is uniquely offered together with Irdeto TraceMark™ forensic watermarking and is fully compliant with the standards of The State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television of the People’s Republic of China (SAPPRFT). With Irdeto’s support of the first hardware-protected ecosystem for China DRM, operators are able to securely offer consumers access to premium content.

 

###

About Irdeto

Irdeto is the world leader in digital platform security, protecting platforms and applications across multiple industries, such as media & entertainment, payments and automotive. Our solutions and services enable customers to protect their revenue, create new offerings and fight cybercrime. With nearly 50 years of expertise in security, Irdeto’s software security technology and cyber services protect over 5 billion devices and applications for some of the world’s best known brands. Our unique heritage as a subsidiary of multinational media group Naspers (JSE: NPN) means that we are a well-established and reliable partner to help build a more secure future. Please visit Irdeto at www.irdeto.com.

 

About Amlogic

Amlogic is a global fabless system-on-a-chip (SoC) leader that provides open platform solutions for multimedia consumer devices including OTT/IP STBs, Smart TVs and Smart Home products. Amlogic has combined its highly-optimized media processing engine and system IPs with industry-leading CPU and GPU technologies to produce solutions for leading pay-tv operators, OEM, and ODM partners. Through proprietary techniques, Amlogic has been able to achieve cost, performance, and power consumption optimizations never seen before. Amlogic lets partners rapidly develop market-leading products by providing turnkey solutions on both Android and Linux.  Amlogic is founded in Santa Clara, California, with R&D centers, support and sales offices in Santa Clara, Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, Taipei, and France.

 

For further information, please contact:

 

Crystal Kung

Account Manager, WE Communications

P: +65 303 8472

Email: ckung@we-worldwide.com

 

Katie Walsh

Director, Corporate Communications, Irdeto

Mobile: +1-603-738-9599

Email: Katherine.walsh@irdeto.com

 

Around half (52%) of Chinese consumers aged 18 to 24 who watch pirated content indicated that mobile devices are their most frequent method of consuming this content – the highest globally – reflecting a prominent shift in viewer consumptions habits         

 

CHINA, CCBN, 23 March 2017 – A new online consumer survey from Irdeto, the world leader in digital platform security, found that 84% of Chinese consumers polled are aware that producing or sharing pirated video content is illegal. In contrast, only 58% think that streaming or downloading pirated content is illegal, revealing a lack of understanding that in fact both forms of piracy are illegal.

This calls for greater efforts in educating Chinese consumers that all forms of piracy are illegal. Education is expected to have a positive impact. Over half (57%) of Chinese consumers who watch pirated content stated they are willing to pirate less, or even stop watching, when told that piracy could hinder studio investment and cause a drop in the quality of content. Interestingly, Chinese consumers aged 35 to 44 are most likely to pirate (73%) – more than the younger demographic aged 18 to 24 (68%) – and are also the most willing (65%) to pirate less or stop watching.

With regards to the devices used most frequently to consume pirated video content, Irdeto’s survey found that 41% of Chinese consumers who watch pirated content use their laptops or computers to access this content while 43% use their mobile devices (smartphones or tablets). The latter is more pronounced among the younger demographic aged 18 to 24 and reflects a shift in viewer consumption habits, where 52% indicated that mobile devices are their most frequent method of consuming pirated content.

“The findings of the survey show that piracy will continue to be a major business challenge for operators in the near future. There is also a need for broader consumer education so that they will understand the negative implications that piracy can cause to the industry,” said Marco Xie, General Manager, China, Irdeto. “Content providers should proactively identify where piracy leaks are happening and what content is being pirated, so that operators can not only mitigate revenue loss, but also increase revenue potential by capitalizing on latent demand.”

A majority of the consumers (37%) who watch pirated content in China are most interested in watching movies that are currently shown in theatres, followed by TV series (18%) and Blu-ray edition of movies (12%). This reflects the consumption patterns of Chinese consumers who have a strong preference for Hollywood blockbusters that hit the Chinese box office.

However, competition from online video sites are expected to compete for market share and grow in popularity, especially among local video content service providers like Tencent, Youku Tudou and others that are investing in more local original content. These emerging players will not be spared from piracy unless they play their part in investing in content protection and educating consumers on the negative impact that piracy has on the industry, which ultimately affects the quality of a consumer’s viewing experience.

“Consumer education in China plays an important role in any anti-piracy strategy, especially given the lack of knowledge regarding what is legal and illegal, and is most effective when there is a high level of willingness among consumers to change their behavior,” said Rory O’Connor, Vice President of Services, Irdeto. “If industry players can elicit this change in consumer habits, alongside a compelling legal video service and a 360-degree approach to a robust security and anti-piracy program, they will be able to prevent pirates from stealing market share.”

Irdeto also conducted a Global Consumer Piracy Survey which you may view at this link: https://resources.irdeto.com/irdeto-global-consumer-piracy-survey

 

Methodology

The research was commissioned by Irdeto and conducted online from February 7^th–13^th, 2017 by YouGov. Total sample size was 1,044 Chinese adults (aged 18+). The figures have been weighted and are representative of the online population of adults in China (aged 18+).

 

###

 

About Irdeto

Irdeto is the world leader in digital platform security, protecting platforms and applications across multiple industries, such as media & entertainment, payments and automotive. Our solutions and services enable customers to protect their revenue, create new offerings and fight cybercrime. With nearly 50 years of expertise in security, Irdeto’s software security technology and cyber services protect over 5 billion devices and applications for some of the world’s best known brands. Our unique heritage as a subsidiary of multinational media group Naspers (JSE: NPN) means that we are a well-established and reliable partner to help build a more secure future. Please visit Irdeto at www.irdeto.com.

 

For further information, please contact:

Crystal Kung

Account Manager, WE Communications

P: +65 303 8472

Email: ckung@we-worldwide.com

 

Katie Walsh

Director, Corporate Communications, Irdeto

Mobile: +1-603-738-9599

Email: Katherine.walsh@irdeto.com

Irdeto Rights for China DRM with TEE integration is the first-ever hardware-protected ecosystem for China DRM that will give operators more control and confidence to launch premium content services

CHINA, CCBN, 22 March 2017 – Irdeto has announced the successful integration of Irdeto Rights for China DRM Hardware Profile with MStar Semiconductor, Inc.’s trusted execution environment (TEE) hardware for its chipsets equipped with the capability of Side Channel Resistance (SCR). This integration will give operators in China and content owners more control and confidence to launch premium content services, especially Hollywood studio early release and 4K/UHD content, and is the first hardware-protected ecosystem for China DRM in the industry. For this type of premium content, TEE integration with SCR is a mandatory requirement.

China’s appetite for premium content on smart TVs – either TV sets or set-top boxes with integrated internet features – is growing fast and it’s anticipated that the domestic market should continue to post healthy growth in the coming years. According to IHS, more than half of the TVs shipped globally in Q1 2016 were smart TVs, and this acceleration was led by China where four out of five TV sets had smart functionality.

“As demand for premium content increases among Chinese consumers, it is crucial for operators and content owners to deploy the right security that complies with Hollywood studios’ stringent requirements for 4K/UHD content,” said Wayne Tsai, Marketing Director, MStar. “We are proud to play a key role in the first-ever hardware-protected ecosystem for China DRM in partnership with Irdeto to protect operators and content owners’ premium content, and instill greater confidence for the studios and content providers to invest more in the Chinese market.”

“Our partnership with MStar will provide operators in China and content owners the highest form of security to protect premium 4K/UHD content. In doing so, we aim to facilitate the availability of premium content for the Chinese audience, which will boost the rapidly growing industry,” said Marco Xie, General Manager, China, Irdeto. “With a world-class level of security for delivery platforms, content owners can accelerate the release of new content and explore new business models to generate greater revenues from premium content offerings for the Chinese audience.”

As part of the Irdeto 360 security suite, Irdeto launched Irdeto Rights for China DRM, the first-ever Chinese government-approved and Hollywood studios-validated DRM solution last year. It is uniquely offered together with Irdeto TraceMark™ forensic watermarking and is fully compliant with the standards of The State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television of the People’s Republic of China (SAPPRFT). With Irdeto’s support of the first hardware-protected ecosystem for China DRM, operators are able to securely offer consumers access to premium content.

 

###

 

About Irdeto

Irdeto is the world leader in digital platform security, protecting platforms and applications across multiple industries, such as media & entertainment, payments and automotive. Our solutions and services enable customers to protect their revenue, create new offerings and fight cybercrime. With nearly 50 years of expertise in security, Irdeto’s software security technology and cyber services protect over 5 billion devices and applications for some of the world’s best known brands. Our unique heritage as a subsidiary of multinational media group Naspers (JSE: NPN) means that we are a well-established and reliable partner to help build a more secure future. Please visit Irdeto at www.irdeto.com.

 About MStar Semiconductor, Inc.

MStar Semiconductor, Inc. (“MStar”) is a world-class leader in Application Specific ICs (“ASIC”) with a focus on consumer electronic products and communication applications. MStar has established a strong brand and leadership position in LCD controller, analog and digital TV and set-top box by fully leveraging its core expertise of cutting-edge design capabilities, continuous innovation and premier customer-focused services.

Headquartered in Taiwan, MStar has a comprehensive global footprint of international R&D and customer support centers to provide a full range of total solutions for various consumer electronic applications.

For further information, please contact:

 

Crystal Kung

Account Manager, WE Communications

P: +65 303 8472

Email: ckung@we-worldwide.com

 

Katie Walsh

Director, Corporate Communications, Irdeto

Mobile: +1-603-738-9599

Email: Katherine.walsh@irdeto.com

 

Hong Kong, 21 March 2017 – Eurovision, the operational arm of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), and Asia Satellite Telecommunications Co. Ltd. (AsiaSat), Asia’s leading satellite operator are pleased to announce an expansion of their partnership for use of multiple C-band transponders on AsiaSat 5 and a teleport service from AsiaSat’s Tai Po Earth Station in Hong Kong.

The C-band transponders will be used for occasional live sports and news transmissions in the Asia-Pacific region. They will also support permanent TV channel distribution in Asia for EBU Members and customers.

Eurovision and AsiaSat have partnered together since 1999 to deliver top quality sports events to broadcasters holding the rights in the Asia-Pacific region, including major football leagues and tournaments. The collaboration has recently expanded to 4K transmissions of major events successfully delivered to the international broadcasting community.

Over the years, AsiaSat’s space and ground facilities have been a key part of the Eurovision Global Network. Connecting AsiaSat’s Tai Po Earth Station in Hong Kong to the Eurovision FiNE (fibre network) allows Eurovision to provide enhanced value-added services, including equipment hosting, turnaround and uplink services to EBU Members and customers.

“We are very pleased to have this opportunity to continue working with our long-term partner Eurovision, expanding on our shared commitment to bring more value to our customers and their audiences through our ever strengthening partnership. AsiaSat is determined to stay at the forefront of technology to deliver the best global live sports content possible,” said Barrie Woolston, Chief Commercial Officer of AsiaSat.

“We are delighted to expand our collaboration with AsiaSat to deliver more global live sports events using advanced technology such as the 4K. Together we can enhance and offer Asian audiences a superior viewing experience and additional complementary services in the future,” said Graham Warren, Chief Operating Officer at Eurovision.

# # #

About Eurovision

Eurovision – the operating arm of the European Broadcasting Union – is the world’s leading producer and distributor of top-quality content spanning live sports and news events, entertainment, culture and music. From media rights to host broadcasting, from satellite and fibre distribution to production facilities and digital media, Eurovision is a specialist partner offering one-stop solutions via the world’s biggest broadcast network. Eurovision uniquely combines satellite and fibre know-how in a fully-managed environment complemented by wireless networks, which is outstanding for its reliability, expertise and commitment to the latest technology. For more information, please visit: Eurovision.net

 

About AsiaSat

Asia Satellite Telecommunications Company Limited (AsiaSat), the leading satellite operator in Asia, serves over two-thirds of the world’s population with its six satellites, AsiaSat 3S, AsiaSat 4, AsiaSat 5, AsiaSat 6, AsiaSat 7 and AsiaSat 8. The AsiaSat satellite fleet serves both the broadcast and telecommunications industries. Over 700 television and radio channels are now delivered by the company’s satellites offering access to more than 830 million TV households across the Asia-Pacific region. AsiaSat’s next satellite, AsiaSat 9 is planned to be launched in late 2017. AsiaSat is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Asia Satellite Telecommunications Holdings Limited, a company listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (Stock Code: 1135). For more information, please visit www.asiasat.com

A special week of coverage from March 20 and a 30-min special airs during March 24-28

‘Made In Japan’ often brings to mind meticulous design, cutting-edge technology and a long standing reputation built over generations of dedication. But today Japan is facing increasing competition on a global scale. CNN explores how Japanese companies are reaching new heights of innovation, to compete now and in the future. Meet the risk-takers, the dreamers, and next generation of leaders who are implementing cutting edge technology and championing innovation to set the new inspiration benchmark across global industries.

Hosted by CNN’s Tokyo-based correspondent Will Ripley, ‘Made In Japan’ will air on CNN International showcasing the best of Japan’s high-tech innovations across the industry spectrum. Highlights of CNN’s special coverage include:

High-Tech Retail – Rakuten is often referred to as “Japan’s Amazon,” but it wants to be a global tech giant. The e-retailer launched 20 years ago, today it is the highest-ranked Japanese company on Forbes’ list of “Most Innovative Companies.” CNN sees how Rakuten is leading the way to commercialize drone deliveries.

Bio-Tech – Euglena is smaller than the thickness of human hair. The microalgae grow in fresh water, and can survive in high concentrations of CO2. A Tokyo-based company named after this tiny organism became the first to commercially cultivate euglena for food in 2005. Now researchers are tapping its potential for a different kind of fuel. Euglena is set to break ground on Japan’s first algae biofuel refinery and hopes to help power planes by 2020.

Photography -Throughout its 83-year history, Fujifilm has worked to develop new technologies and diversify its business. It’s working to promote the use of mirrorless cameras and increase the appeal of instant cameras. And Fujifilm has managed to apply its core knowledge of photographic chemicals to develop a line of cosmetics. These creative shifts have helped the iconic company stay relevant in the age of smartphones where others have failed.

Vending Haven – Japan has more than five million vending machines which sell everything from a hot meal to fresh fruit. Dydo Drinco considers them as “vital retail outlets” that account for 80% of its sales. Dydo has been working to improve energy efficiency and increase customer loyalty. Find out how these machines are made and maintained, and what can be done to stand out in a sea of choices.

Luxury Golf – Founded in 1959, Honma has had its share of ups and downs. The company won fame for developing gold-plated golf clubs, but went bankrupt in 2005. Honma is now led by a Chinese businessman and looking to tee up new opportunities. Production remains based in Japan, where it’s viewed as an art that incorporates the latest technology.

 

Click here for more information:

‘Made In Japan’ microsite

Creative Trailer

More photos

 

Airtimes for 30-minute special: Hong Kong, Beijing, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Singapore and Taipei

Friday 24^th March at 1730 and 2330 HKT

Saturday 25^th March at 2000 HKT

Tuesday 28^th March at 1730 HKT

Wednesday 29^th March at 1130 HKT

 

-End-

 

About CNN International

CNN’s portfolio of news and information services is available in seven different languages across all major TV, digital and mobile platforms reaching more than 425 million households around the globe. CNN International is the number one international TV news channel according to all major media surveys across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the Asia Pacific region and Latin America and has a US presence which includes CNNgo. CNN Digital is a leading network for online news, mobile news and social media. CNN is at the forefront of digital innovation and continues to invest heavily in expanding its digital global footprint, with a suite of award-winning digital properties and a range of strategic content partnerships, commercialised through a strong data-driven understanding of audience behaviours. Over the years CNN has won multiple prestigious awards around the world for its journalism. CNN has 41 editorial offices and more than 1,100 affiliates worldwide through CNN Newsource. CNN International is part of Turner, a Time Warner company.

Latest original content from Warner Bros. Animation – Dorothy & the Wizard of Oz and all-new Wacky Races – to make international debut on Boomerang from June

HONG KONG (March 21, 2017) – Turner has today revealed details of two highly-anticipated WB Animation original new series, Dorothy & the Wizard of Oz and Wacky Races.

They will join the line-up of iconic, contemporary animation for the company’s second flagship international kids channel Boomerang from June 2017. In the US, they will exclusively be shown on the recently-announced streaming subscription service.

Mark Eyers, Chief Content Office for Turner’s Kids Networks in Asia Pacific, said: “These two shows are top-quality additions to the Boomerang line-up in Australia and have the unique ability to delight and entertain all members of the family.”

Launching in June in Asia Pacific, Dorothy & the Wizard of Oz is an uplifting comedic fantasy based on the classic L. Frank Baum book series, and set soon after Dorothy and her friends have defeated the Wicked Witch of the West. Following the original story, Queen Ozma has appointed Dorothy the Princess of Emerald City and, practically born for the role, Dorothy tackles her royal duties with enthusiasm, bravery and farm girl feistiness.

It’s also a whole lot of responsibility, because Oz is pretty chaotic. There are Witches, Wizards, Munchkins, Flying Monkeys and a whole menagerie of mystical creatures. More often than not, magic falls into the wrong hands and that’s where Dorothy comes in!

As Princess of Emerald City, Dorothy feels responsible to rein in the chaos. She loves to track down whichever magical person, place, or thing is causing mischief in Oz and put a stop to it. It’s not always easy: make a mistake in Kansas and it’s usually not a big deal; make a mistake in Oz and a Wicked Witch or two come after you.

Then, in August, calling all racers back to the track, Wacky Races a full-engine overhaul of the Hanna-Barbera classic series that will see the return of everyone’s favourite racers and, of course, their wacky cars! Penelope Pitstop in the Compact Pussycat is the sassy Southern belle whose charm and intelligence make her a formidable racer, but most of the time she’s taking a detour to save the other racers.

Penelope’s best friend, Peter Perfect in the Turbo Terrific, has a big heart and an even bigger ego, which fuels his super positive “can-do” attitude. Meanwhile, in the Mean Machine, Dick Dastardly and his accomplice, Muttley, continue to stop at nothing to win the race by any means necessary. And if it’s bizarre, creepy, slimy or just plain weird, The Gruesome Twosome — Tiny and Bella — are either related to it or keep it in their “monster” truck, the Doombuggy.

Joining these familiar faces will be a whole new roster of racers ready to take to the track and race to strange and exotic locales around the world — and beyond! With new racers, new vehicles and spectacular new locations, Wacky Races is not just a tune-up, it’s a full-engine overhaul filled with fast-paced slapstick comedy, high-octane thrills and pure zany fun from start to finish.

Dorothy & the Wizard of Oz and Wacky Races join Boomerang’s portfolio of fun and funny, multi-generational shows, which include Warner Bros. Animation’s The Tom and Jerry Show, Be Cool, Scooby-Doo!, Bunnicula and Looney Tunes, new Boomerang Original production The Happos Family, as well as global and international acquisitions such as Grizzy and the Lemmings and Mr Bean: The Animated Series.

 

-Ends-

 

Press Contact:

James Moore, Turner Asia Pacific

+852 3128-3720 / james.moore@turner.com

 

About Boomerang International

Turner’s Boomerang is a 24-hour digital cable and satellite network offering the best in classic and contemporary animated entertainment. Boomerang targets boys and girls aged 4-7 and their families, offering an exciting mix of light-hearted and fun family favourite cartoons such as Scooby-Doo, The Tom and Jerry Show, Garfield, Inspector Gadget and Looney Tunes. Boomerang has localised services throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific and Latin America where it is available in 25 languages in more than 100 countries and in over 126 million homes. Boomerang is a brand owned by Turner, a Time Warner company.

 

About Turner Asia Pacific

Turner Asia Pacific creates and distributes award-winning brands throughout the region, running 61 channels in 14 languages in 42 countries. These include CNN International, CNNj, CNN, HLN, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Boomerang, POGO, Toonami, Warner TV, Oh!K, TCM Turner Classic Movies, truTV, MondoTV, TABI Channel, and HBO, HBO HD and WB in South Asia. Turner manages the business of Pay- and Free-TV-channels, as well as Internet-based services, and oversees commercial partnerships with various third-party media ventures; it teams with Warner Bros. and HBO to leverage Time Warner’s global reach. Turner Broadcasting System Asia Pacific, Inc. (“Turner Asia Pacific”) is a Time Warner company.

Luxembourg, 20 March 2017

Intelsat (NYSE: I), operator of the world’s first Globalized Network, powered by its leading satellite backbone, today announced that Sentech, a leading broadcasting signal distributor in Africa, has extended and expanded its relationship with Intelsat to bolster delivery of media services in sub-Saharan Africa.

Sentech has been leveraging Ku-band services from Intelsat 20, located at 68.5˚ East, for decades to cost-effectively deliver Direct-to-Home (DTH) and Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) services in South Africa. Sentech, which reaches 8.5 million TV households, has contracted additional services on Intelsat 20, Africa’s top video neighborhood, to power its growth in the region.

“As a world class signal distributor and communications provider, Sentech is always exploring avenues and pursuing relationships that will ensure quality broadcast services for South Africa,” said Mlamli Booi, CEO of Sentech, said. “The contracting of these additional services with Intelsat will allow Sentech to expand quality media services to the rest of the African continent.”

“Intelsat will continue to support Sentech in its efforts to be the leading distributor of content in Africa,” said Brian Jakins, Intelsat’s Vice President, Africa. “Satellite remains the best means for African broadcasters to reach the widest possible audience, and this agreement will enable Sentech to continue connecting Africa to the world and the world to Africa.”

Supporting Resources:

• Intelsat Media Services: http://www2.intelsat.com/e/48312/solutions-media-/4wczkx/242988295

About Intelsat

Intelsat S.A. (NYSE: I) operates the world’s first Globalized Network, delivering high-quality, cost-effective video and broadband services anywhere in the world. Intelsat’s Globalized Network combines the world’s largest satellite backbone with terrestrial infrastructure, managed services and an open, interoperable architecture to enable customers to drive revenue and reach through a new generation of network services. Thousands of organizations serving billions of people worldwide rely on Intelsat to provide ubiquitous broadband connectivity, multi-format video broadcasting, secure satellite communications and seamless mobility services. The end result is an entirely new world, one that allows us to envision the impossible, connect without boundaries and transform the ways in which we live. For more information, visit www.intelsat.com.

About Sentech
Sentech is the backbone of the South African broadcast infrastructure and services, being the premier provider of electronic communications network services for the South African broadcasting and communications industry. The State-owned Company provides broadcast transmission services to the national broadcaster, mainstream and community television broadcasters, and over 150 Radio Stations country wide. Its infrastructure and data communications platforms also provide services to South Africa’s telecoms sector and mobile providers. The world class Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) and universal access Direct-To-Home (DTH) satellite platform service ensures access to Digital Television countrywide. The DTT network successfully covers 100% of country’s population through 84% reach via the DVB-T2 terrestrial network and the remaining 16% via the Satellite DTH network.  Sentech is now focused on developing and rolling out open-access multiscreen platforms that will enrich SA’s digital content distribution industry. More about Sentech: www.sentech.co.za