China Gets First Taste of Anytime TV

Microsoft Corp. announced that Guangzhou Digital Media Group has formally launched Zhujiang Digital, a connected TV service powered by the Microsoft Mediaroom Internet Protocol television (IPTV) platform. This is the first Mediaroom-enabled TV service to launch in China and the first time Mediaroom has been delivered over a cable network anywhere in the world.

The new service, available to residents in the Guangzhou region of China, also includes the first deployment of the Mediaroom Anytime feature set, which will take time-shifted TV to the next level in China. Announced at 2009 International CES, Mediaroom Anytime will let subscribers access previously aired shows from their Interactive Program Guide and immediately restart currently airing programs without any preplanning or prior digital video recording (DVR).

“This is an exciting moment for consumers in China and a significant milestone for Microsoft and the IPTV industry as Guangzhou Digital Media Group becomes the first deployment of the award-winning Mediaroom platform over a cable network,” said Enrique Rodriguez, corporate vice president of the Connected TV Business Group at Microsoft. “It also heralds the arrival of the latest in connected TV and the first Mediaroom-based service in China, enabling residents in the Guangzhou region to enjoy TV on their terms and watch the shows they want on their schedule.”

At a launch ceremony on Monday, Jan. 12 in Guangzhou City, presided over Guan Zhijian, Director-General of Guangzhou TV Station and Chairman of Guangzhou Digital Media Group, attended by Microsoft’s Rodriguez, Guangzhou Digital Media Group outlined its plans for the new service, including a commitment to connect its total of 2.5 million subscribers within three to five years.

“With the launch of Zhujiang Digital Interactive TV service, the Guangzhou Digital Media Group is delivering a personalized and connected alternative to existing TV services,” Director-General Guan said. “Powered by the Microsoft Mediaroom platform, the new service will allow residents in Guangzhou to enjoy their TV when they want it, without missing a thing as well as rich interactivity.”

Microsoft Mediaroom, http://www.microsoft.com/mediaroom.