Arris is rolling out a new lineup of TiVo-powered set-top boxes designed to help independent operators provide over-the-top (OTT) content alongside regular cable TV.
The company on Monday unveiled the new portfolio, which includes the MG2 Cable Media Gateway, Mi4 IP Client, and Qi3 Cable Set-Top/IP Client. All three set-top boxes use the TiVo interface, and support the National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC)’s VU-IT! Program to work OTT programming – like Netflix and YouTube – into the mix. MoCA 2.0 networking technology is used throughout the portfolio to allow connection via existing coaxial cables.
NCTC operates as a programming and hardware purchasing organization for member companies, which own and operate cable systems throughout the U.S. and its territories.
“Our advanced new set-top portfolio positions Arris as the ideal global partner for NCTC members looking to deliver next-generation OTT and TiVo experiences to their subscribers,” Arris’ President of Customer Premise Equipment Larry Robinson comments. “This range of solutions demonstrates ARRIS’s dedication to supporting independent operators as well as our leadership in UHD and DVR services. We’re bringing the future of TV to operators of all sizes, who count on our expertise, scale, and advanced technology to deliver the cutting-edge video services that their subscribers demand.”
Arris’ two-pound MG2 gateway features support for 4K and HDR10 programming and a six-tuner DVR for viewing and recording shows in multiple rooms. The MG2 also has a 1 TB hard drive to store all that content.
Subscribers with the MG2 (or even MG1) gateway can tack on the new Mi4 IP Client to upgrade to 4K services. Cost-conscious customers can also opt for the Qi3 client, which Arris notes can operate as a stand-alone HD set-top using DTA security or as a MR-DVR client to the in-home video gateway like the MG2 and MG1. The Qi3 is reportedly one of the first devices to achieve CAL certification for DTA security.
Arris is showing off the new portfolio this week at the NCTC Independent Show in Indianapolis.