Manitoba Telecom Services Inc. (MTS), Canada's third-largest national telecommunications company, has launched on-demand programming to over 40,000 television subscribers in Winnipeg. Using the world's most widely deployed on-demand software and servers from SeaChange International, Inc., the popular and growing MTS TV service now includes Hollywood blockbusters, kids' programs and other fare with on-demand control and convenience.

"MTS TV has become the first choice television connection for an increasing number of homes in Winnipeg within just a few years," said Cheryl Barker, President, MTS (Manitoba). "Now we're making a substantial leap into on-demand programming. We've put into place a network and an on-demand platform that will continue to redefine consumer expectations of television with new services and unmatched convenience."

MTS TV is a digital television service providing over 200 channels, including more than 25 themed channel packages. In addition to video-on-demand, MTS is adding new features to the MTS TV portal, providing more access to local information such as weather, airport arrivals and departures, school/garbage day, horoscopes and more. All of these new features, in addition to exclusive content such as MTS Centre On Demand and MTS Games On Demand, are accessible through MTS's Motorola set-top boxes. SeaChange's VOD system is integrated with MTS's Motorola VDSL architecture.

First deployed in 2000 and now supporting over 100 broadband networks delivering video services, SeaChange's VOD servers and software are the foundation for the majority of commercial on-demand television services around the world. In 2004, the National Television Academy awarded the first-ever Emmy to SeaChange for accomplishments enabling on-demand's widespread availability. Additionally, its server systems are supporting the storage and delivery of video content for hundreds of broadcasters, studios and television networks around the world. SeaChange will demonstrate these platforms at IBC 2005 in Amsterdam, Sept. 9-13, stand 8.280.