Multichannel News | November 16, 2016
GCI of Alaska has joined a growing mix of mid-sized MSOs to deploy the eBOX, a hybrid QAM/IP box from Evolution Digital that’s being used to help operators make the transition to IP.
GCI is rolling out a version of eBOX powered by TiVo’s software and user interface. That falls in line with GCI’s current rollout of TiVo-made hardware as well as set-tops and gateways that have ported the TiVo experience, including the Pace (now Arris)-made XG1. Evolution also offers a version of eBOX that runs the eGUIDE, a UI that’s based on Fan TV, a platform that is also offered by TiVo following its recent merger with Rovi.
Evolution Digital noted that GCI will offer eBOX in “select service regions.” GCI ended Q3 with 108,900 basic video subs, with 54,400 of them on a digital video tier.
Like other MSOs running the TiVo platform, GCI has been pairing its traditional pay TV offering with integrated access to OTT services such as Netflix and Hulu.
Other operators that are deploying eBOX include WideOpenWest, which has a cloud DVR on its roadmap that will utilize the new device, as well as Mediacom Communications, Advanced Cable Communications and operators that are part of the National Cable Television Cooperative.