i3 and Espial have integrated the Espial Evo client middleware (EPG, VOD, Portal, etc) in i3 IP set-top boxes. Together they can now provide a fully integrated and interoperable middleware set-top solution for low-cost IPTV-applications. The solution is ready-to-deploy and designed to highly reduce operators’ time-to-market. i3 and Espial cooperation has been formalized in a signed strategic partnership agreement.

"i3 and Espial are joining forces to provide the most cost-optimized and high performance IP TV solution on the market," says Chris Chalkitis, i3 micro technology CTO. "The combined unique capabilities of i3 set-top boxes and Espial middleware are going to set a benchmark for the industry."

Unparalleled price/performance
The integration of Espial Evo and i3 IP set-top boxes guarantees operators a level of performance and personalization unparalleled in the IPTV market. The Beyond Brandable ^TM and intuitive high-speed user interface and cost-optimized design with a small memory footprint, makes it possible to achieve a high-quality user experience at a much lower cost than before.

"Global operators and set-top box manufacturers want a feature-rich, low-cost solution without compromising the consumer user interface experience," said Ella Mar, Senior Vice President, Operations, "Partnering with i3 provides a robust, turnkey solution for operators that reduces risk and overall time to IPTV service revenue."

Advanced technology and robust designs
The Mood ^TM product portfolio consists of full feature IP set-top boxes (STB) for advanced IP streaming media and Internet services, web browsing and e-mail. Mood STB are cost optimized and high performance, allowing service providers to offer a wide range of interactive IP services on existing TV and audio equipment. i3 STB will be Espial’s reference design platform for IP set-top boxes.

i3’s Mood ^TM 100 series of STBs are low-cost but with the performance and features expected only in more advanced products, including plug & play installation, DVD quality viewing, fast channel switching, flexible SmartCard support and a built-in web browser.

Espial Evo provides an unparalleled degree of personalization and brand-ability enabling the ease of creation of differentiated, revenue–generating services enabling operators to reach and own their subscribers. Leveraging the Espial Evo application framework, operators have a client environment that can extend and grow with new applications and services. Espial Evo's unique architecture means that operators can leverage the Evo Framework and focus on delivering differentiated, revenue-generating services.

Espial and i3 will be showcasing the joint solution at IBC 2005, from September 9th to 13th in Amsterdam at Espial’s stand 4.374 and i3’s stand 4.350.