Merging moments

摘要

Using IP networks to deliver a range of services in the home is becoming popular. But how far can the convergence of telco applications with TV services go? Devices used traditionally to communicate, namely mobile phones and PCs, have evolved to become media players. Does that mean the converse should be true - that connected TVs should able to deliver services such as messaging and caller ID, for example? Middleware vendors including Orca Interactive (Stand 2.B40) and Dreampark (4.A75) have developed platforms that enable messaging services to form part of an IPTV system, but so far operators have generally been cool on launching such applications. "Even though we do support applications such as caller ID and messaging functionality, we do not see these as a major requirement today," says Sefy Ariely vice-president of sales and marketing, Orca Interactive. Dreampark's CEO Per Skyttvall has similar views: "Messaging and caller ID-type applications will most probably be part of the TV experience within a short time. This is possible already, although we have currently not seen a huge demand for this from our customers."