Turner Broadcasting Systems (TBS) is now using new online video content management technology from Adobe and FreeWheel to deliver online programming across screens large, small and mobile via Verizon’s FiOS. Telecompetitors such as Verizon and content providers such as TBS are looking to the new functionality to fill two critical gaps–user authentication and ad distribution and management– as they strive to develop and deploy the technology required to make “TV Everywhere” a viable commercial reality. Turner anticipates the launch of additional networks in coming months.
Adobe used its Flash application programming platform to create “an endorsed authentication capability…and reach across multiple platforms, devices and content.” Beginning in September, FreeWheel’s ad serving and management solution will enable programmers sites or distributor portals “to monetize content beyond C3 (linear, online and VOD) in such a way as to complement Nielsen measurement,” according to a TBS news release.
As a result, TBS’s online programming is now available free of charge to Verizon FiOS TV subscribers on a next-day basis through the FiOS TV Online portal, as well as the TBS and TNT online video portals.
“We are excited about this deployment and the next iteration of authenticated multi-screen content distribution,” said Andrew T. Heller, vice chairman of TBS, Inc. “It is more imperative than ever that TV Everywhere gains traction throughout the industry given the rapid deployment of tablets and the ability of mobile devices to display long-form video directly from Web sites.”
Added Shawn Strickland, Verizon vice president of consumer strategy, “As we progress with bringing more and more video content to FiOS TV Online, solutions like this bring us one step further in delivering real world value for consumers. These new solutions from Adobe and FreeWheel have integrated well with Verizon’s proven platform, helping to seamlessly provide our FiOS TV subscribers with anytime, anywhere access to programming. We look forward to bringing our customers more online programming from Turner and other programming partners.”
