Proximus launches new STB and apps powered by 3SS
March 14, 2024
3 Screen Solutions (3SS), a provider of software solutions for set-top boxes (STB), smart TV, multiscreen and in-vehicle entertainment, has announced that Belgian telco Proximus has launched several new apps to further enhance reach and device variety for its super-aggregated Pickx service.
3SS has designed and delivered new Pickx apps for Apple TV, and iOS and Android tablets and smartphones.
The new multiscreen offerings expand Proximus’ Pickx STB-based next-generation IPTV+OTT TV service, based on Android TV Operator Tier, and available to all Proximus’ TV subscriber base, comprising over 1.65 million homes.
“Proximus’ partnership with 3SS now spans many years, and we welcome the high level of creative input and innovation that 3SS brings to help ensure Pickx remains world-class,” said Jim Casteele, Consumer Market Lead at Proximus. “Embracing 3Ready as the service foundation helps us deliver very best experience quality; furthermore, adopting a cross-platform development approach with React Native enables us to ship much quicker with more frequent releases than previously, allowing Proximus to deliver more, faster.”
“The ongoing expansion of Pickx, and the delight and flexibility we’re providing to our customers, are a true testament to what can be achieved with our shared vision and highly collaborative approach with 3SS,” added Casteele.
Proximus will gradually start distributing the new V7c (or V7 compact) STB – the Quartz from Vantiva. The new receiver delivers a better user experience and provides several significant features including integrated Wi-Fi 6 technology.
The V7c incorporates more powerful hardware than its predecessors. 3 GB RAM, integration of the latest chip technology and the latest version of the Android operating system (Android 12) result in smoother switching between applications and an overall better user experience.
The new decoder is made from recycled plastic and is 40% smaller than earlier deployed STBs, making transport more efficient and environmentally friendly. With 12W power, the V7c uses about 25% less electricity. Integrated Wi-Fi 6 means the customer can connect wirelessly to their home network without an external booster. The STB will initially be distributed to new subscribers, but older models in existing customers’ homes will gradually be replaced for free.
Netflix is seamlessly integrated on the STB, as is a new Disney+ pre-app experience enabling content discovery from the home page. The STB user experience aligns with the established Pickx UX, powered by 3SS’ 3Ready product platform.
3SS designed and delivered the new mobile and Apple TV apps using React Native processes. React Native enables cross-platform development, with a single codebase used for multiple operating systems and device platforms. Integration of devices with the back end and other system components is much more efficient with React Native. Proximus is now in the position to further scale the experience to more platforms.
3Ready-enabled React Native developments benefit from higher alignment between platforms at no visible performance loss, far greater resource efficiency, and faster time to market.
“Proximus’ drive to deliver ever more quality and choice to its customers is unwavering,” said Kai-Christian Borchers, 3SS Managing Director. “We are extremely honoured that Proximus continues to trust 3SS in its long-term roadmap for award-winning Pickx.”