OKI participated in the ITU-T1 IPTV Interoperability Event2 held in Geneva, Switzerland, demonstrating the compatibility of the OKI Networks "OKI MediaServer" IP video delivery system with H.721, part of the IPTV H.700 series standards. Held for the first time, the IPTV Interoperability Event is intended to serve as a demonstration and testing event addressing interoperability among the ITU-T's recommended products. OKI demonstrated its "OKI MediaServer", the only IPTV-compatible video delivery server at the event, and demonstrated its compatibility with IPTV devices from other manufacturers. The Event is scheduled to take place in Singapore (September) and in India (December) which OKI plans to participate.

The "OKI MediaServer" was connected to commercially available IPTV-compatible set top boxes and digital television devices made by other participants. The event featured interoperability testing and demonstrations of Video-on-Demand, a technology that allows audiences to view videos whenever they want over IP networks, and IP broadcasting,4 which delivers programs according to a prepared schedule. The demonstrations won high evaluations from visitors.

The ITU-T H.700 series5 standards address high-definition digital broadcasts over IP. The H.721 standard for IPTV terminals is part of a series covering basic IPTV services, including VOD and IP broadcast information services. Examples include electronic program guides. The H.721 is a standard that defines the terminal interface required to receive broadcasts over an IP network using IP multicasting.6 The standard also addresses video-on-demand, allowing audiences, for instance, to view content at any time and to forward the content viewed. The standard is based on specifications for IPTV Forum Japan, a standard for IPTV in Japan and adopted for Hikari- TV provided by NTT Plala. Adoption is also underway in other nations.

IPTV, a key application for NGN, is expected to enter widespread global deployment. Capitalizing on the results of the interoperability event, OKI will contribute to emerging standardization for IPTV services based on the "OKI MediaServer" and pursue business opportunities by providing IPTV platforms that can be readily adopted by IPTV service companies in Japan and abroad. OKI also plans to participate in and contribute to efforts to establish international standards for new IPTV services and to provide products that offer compatible IPTV services.