UK satellite platform Freesat has deployed a beta release of the hybrid broadcast broadband MHEG Interaction Channel (MHEG-IC), reports IMPALA, the International MHEG Promotion Alliance. The MHEG-IC provides access to streamed on-demand video content in addition to traditional text and graphics and the ability to support secure transactions.
Freesat, which is owned by the UK broadcasters BBC and ITV, will allow access to the iPlayer catch-up TV service via the IP connection, supplementing its existing broadcast content. The MHEG-IC uses a hybrid file system that enables broadcasters to create common applications that can work on both IP-connected and unconnected receivers in a seamless and user-friendly way.