Intel virtual cable TV service hits media negotiation delays
updated 02:50 pm EST, Wed January 2, 2013
Cloud-based TV, DVR service could launch mid-2013
A project by Intel to roll out a virtual cable TV service with per-channel subscriptions and a cloud-based DVR service has hit longer delays than previously thought, with the negotiations with media companies being the main cause. Recent reports suggest that the discussions pushed the service's potential launch from the end of 2012 to mid-2013 or as late as the fourth quarter.
A report by the Wall Street Journal claims that the project could still reach a limited beta by March, though this is still dependent on signing agreements with content owners. It is also said that Intel's budget for the project exceeds that of Apple and Google for their set-top boxes, and that the company is not afraid to invest heavily to make it a success.
If the delays did not occur, Intel would roll out on a city-by-city basis, giving customers the option to subscribe to content on a channel-by-channel basis, instead of buying one or a number of packages, as usually offered by a cable or satellite service provider. Users of the service would also have access to all content shown on the channel in the previous 30 days, using a cloud-based DVR. Such a service sounds similar to the acclaimed BBC iPlayer service in the UK, a product that Intel Media VP Erik Huggers previously worked on.
An Intel spokesperson said that it will not be demonstrated at CES next week.
