ActiveVideo Networks™, creators of CloudTV™, the advanced TV software platform based entirely in the cloud, have announced Comcast has licensed its CloudTV H5™ platform. Comcast will use the platform for an enhanced video-on-demand (VOD) user experience trial. The cloud-based user interface provides a way for customers to search and discover VOD content.

The scalable CloudTV H5™ platform utilizes HTML5 browser technology in remote servers to execute and provide user experiences within the cloud. The user experience is then streamed to the user’s device. Subscribers control the experience and application by using their remote controls to send key presses to the remote server. According to ActiveVideo, the latency period between a customer key press and the UI response is minimal.

The new technology makes it possible to create and deliver pixel-accurate applications and user experiences across any digital set top box or any connected device. In-home device capabilities are irrelevant to the application designer because the application operates on the cloud-based server. This makes it possible to create complex animations and functionality without having to worrying about device capability.

Designed to interface seamlessly with existing the cable operator’s network infrastructure, the “total cloud” approach can be executed at a low cost without changing or adding a single device in the home. As television operators and cable providers move toward to a unicast distribution network, they can take advantage of the CloudTV platform to drive personalized, on-demand video to every customer. Currently, CloudTV is available on approximately 10 million screens in the United States and abroad with Cablevision Systems, Oceanic Time Warner Cable and other operators, as well as on Philips-brand NetTVs.

From the press release, “ActiveVideo Networks Licenses CloudTV Platform To Comcast; Supports MSO’s VOD UI Trial in Chattanooga.”