talk Satellite

FRANSAT, the French DTH platform operated by Eutelsat, is unveiling its "FRANSAT Connect" interactive portal using the HbbTV standard at IBC Amsterdam. The portal is designed for connected TV sets and decoders compatible with the FRANSAT satellite platform. It will be displayed on Eutelsat's stand at IBC (Hall 1 - stand D59).

In addition to linear television and radio channels, FRANSAT Connect will provide viewers with a wide range of interactive services including programme guides, infotainment, access to catch-up services and video on demand.

Viewers can select to display the portal on their TV screen in full-screen mode and through the "FRANSAT Info" channel or as a banner displayed on any channel by pressing a dedicated button on the remote control (depending on equipment installed).

Using the HbbTV standard FRANSAT Connect provides improved access to interactive applications provided by the channels available in the FRANSAT platform by referencing them within the portal. Direct access to interactive services provided by the channels is also available via the red button that appears on screen as a pop-up once a channel is selected.

FRANSAT's CEO Jean-Luc Deroudilhe said: "Starting from a base of subscription-free digital channels for French homes beyond range of DTT reception FRANSAT is transforming into a fully fledged platform able to offer linear and non-linear services. Our vision is to provide users with an intuitive and straightforward interface that matches viewer expectations for a broader television experience."

FRANSAT Connect is available via a new range of HbbTV-compatible satellite receivers referenced by FRANSAT. This range includes an external decoder model "XENA HD Twin CONNECT" produced and distributed by ASTON (see presentation below), and a large selection of TV displays^[1] with an integrated satellite tuner fitted with a FRANSAT CAM module. This new generation of hybrid satellite receivers combines reception of linear channels via satellite with interactive non-linear content transmitted to the TV set via a broadband connection.

In addition to the new portal designed for display on TV screens, FRANSAT is launching a companion application to enable viewers to access the FRANSAT Connect programme guide on smartphones and tablets^[2]. This application will also act as a virtual remote control and enable viewers to manage programme alerts and easily set recordings.