Fransat has unveiled the TV Stick, a revolutionary USB format CAM CI Plus 2.0 module designed to provide a seamless and convenient experience for HD and UHD satellite reception directly in the TV. This miniature set-top box, showcased at the Eutelsat Group stand (Hall 1.C41) during a recent industry event, is poised to become available in France starting from the last quarter of 2024. The TV Stick represents a significant leap forward in simplifying satellite DTT Direct-to-Home reception.
At its core, the Fransat TV Stick is a conditional access module (‘CAM module’) that leverages the advanced CI Plus 2.0 standard. This integration enables the TV Stick to incorporate decrypting and logical channel numbering functionalities crucial for satellite broadcasting, all within a compact USB dongle. The TV Stick is simply inserted into the USB port of modern TV sets that boast an integrated satellite tuner. With the TV Stick in place, viewers gain access to a comprehensive range of satellite HD and UHD channels. They can effortlessly navigate these channels and control advanced TV features and services using their existing TV remote control, eliminating the need for external set-top boxes or cumbersome cabling.
Fransat stands out as the first global operator to introduce this pioneering solution, driven by the ambition to simplify and expand the reach of direct-to-home satellite TV reception. While over half of French households are equipped with Smart TVs, a considerable portion, particularly in sparsely populated areas, experiences limited or no terrestrial DTT coverage. Furthermore, bandwidth limitations often hinder the delivery of HD and UHD television channels via the internet. Recognizing these challenges, Fransat, which has been offering the TV Module—a CAM CI Plus module with a PCMCIA port—for several years, is now launching the TV Stick. This latest innovation incorporates cutting-edge security features, ensuring robust access control and safeguarding UHD and premium content.
This compact electronic device, requiring no external set-top box, empowers viewers to fully capitalize on their smart TV’s exceptional video and audio quality. With built-in satellite HD and UHD reception, viewers can enjoy a broader range of entertainment options. The TV Stick complements existing OTT services, which often necessitate lower internet bandwidth.
To enhance the user experience, Fransat offers Fransat Connect, an interactive TV application. This application incorporates an enhanced electronic programme guide (EPG) service, leveraging the HbbTV interactive television technology standard, a feature readily available in all new-generation TV sets. The TV Stick promotes energy efficiency by drawing power directly from the television set, eliminating the need for an additional power source. Its compact design also facilitates easy recycling, aligning with the ongoing efforts of TV operators and manufacturers to minimize their carbon footprint.
The sophisticated software powering the TV Stick is the product of collaborative efforts between Fransat and two French companies: TWISE, a specialist in embedded security software, and VIACCESS-ORCA, a leader in video content technologies, particularly in access control. The CI Plus 2.0 standard, integral to the TV Stick, has already been adopted by several prominent TV manufacturers, including Hisense, LG, and Philips. The progressive rollout of this standard is expected to gain momentum in 2025, marking a transition away from the older PCMCIA port interface.
With the launch of the TV Stick, Fransat asserts its leadership in delivering innovative solutions for satellite TV reception. This commitment to innovation ensures Fransat remains at the forefront of meeting the evolving expectations of both television viewers and industry professionals alike. The TV Stick promises to usher in a new era of satellite TV reception, characterized by simplicity, convenience, and enhanced viewing experiences.