Cox Picks Harmonic

SUNNYVALE, Calif. -- Harmonic Inc. (NASDAQ: HLIT) today announced that Cox Communications, the fourth-largest cable network operator in the United States, is utilizing Harmonic's ProStream™ 8000 digital video mosaic solution to deliver interactive multi-channel mosaics to select subscribers. The Harmonic system enables a compelling "see and select" interface that allows multiple programs to be simultaneously displayed on the screen, opening up a multitude of possibilities in how Cox can present and how subscribers experience television. On air now in select markets, Cox plans to roll out ProStream-based mosaics in other locations over the coming months.

Alongside the rapidly growing video-on-demand (VOD) services, cable operators are developing an even more personalized user experience by providing a new means of channel navigation, selection, recording and service previewing. The IP-based ProStream 8000 allows Cox and other operators to create specialty program groupings—such as news, sports and kids—as well as regionally or locally focused promotions and previews. In addition to concurrently watching several programs, users can listen to the audio for a particular channel, and with the push of a button then switch to the full-screen version. A similar mechanism is used to record programs for future viewing, further simplifying the user’s interaction with their personal video recorder (PVR).

"Cox strives to provide our customers with a unique experience that is second to none," said Vince Groff, Director of iTV Applications for Cox Communications. "The technologies we adopt must accelerate the introduction of personalized viewing, while minimizing the cost and complexity associated with building and operating the underlying infrastructure. Harmonic's mosaic solution enables Cox to add a new dimension to the user experience by enabling visual navigation of programming as well as better promotion of services such as VOD."

"Cox is reshaping the traditional cable user experience with its interactive digital mosaics," said Nimrod Ben-Natan, Vice President of Solutions and Strategy for Harmonic Inc. "The flexibility of Harmonic's unique ProStream 8000 digital mosaic solution allows Cox to create a more personalized view that is tailored to various customer segments. The mosaics help Cox better differentiate its service and provide an opportunity to generate incremental revenue. Harmonic has pioneered the intelligent and seamless application of IP in the cable network and has developed IP-enabled solutions, such as the ProStream 8000, for the headend through the last mile. As a result, cable operators such as Cox gain the benefits of IP while leveraging their HFC networks, bringing the anytime, anywhere 'just for me TV' future into reach."

Harmonic Inc. (Nasdaq: HLIT)