Pace touts hybrid STB with 3D user interface

The company has embedded a set-top box chipset with 3D graphic capabilities and is making it available to software and middleware partners for the development of operator solutions.

The 3D interface is able to support a range of enhanced services such as video on demand, advanced IP based EPG information or graphic animation for screen and application transitions.

Pace added the 3D UI capabilities will enable operators to roll out increased levels of interactivity through a range of graphic enhancements and effects.

The boxes will initially be targeted at telco's and IPTV operators, but Pace stresses the STB can be fully customized for any service operator interested in launching an advanced UI for its subscribers or in offering greater visual interactivity to better complement the delivery of HD services.

Mathias Hautefort, President of Pace, said the company anticipates a growing demand for hybrid STBs.

He added that by 'lighting-up' its products' Ethernet interface "we have already won customers that include Canal+, BT and Viasat. We expect more to follow as we work to launch new hybrid boxes and exploit the latent hybrid potential in many of our deployed HD PVRs."

The growth of 3D in home entertainment is currently gathering pace, with Sky confirming plans to launch a 3D TV channel next year to piggyback on its existing high definition infrastructure.

Sony also intends to introduce 3D technology into its consumer products by the end of next year, including Bravia TV sets, PS3 consoles, Blu-ray players and laptops.

Separately, Pace said it has added Conax's security technology to its conditional access portfolio, which should see it extending its offerings in emerging markets in Eastern Europe, Russia and Asia.

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