Vubiquity Extends Bridge to MPEG-4

Extending a bridge to a more bandwidth-efficient codec, Vubiquity has introduced a new linear video platform for cable operators that integrates MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 feeds.

The service, called LiveVU, is designed to help MSOs shift to MPEG-4/AVC, a format that’s about 50% more efficient than MPEG-2, as they continue to expand their HDTV tiers and deploy hybrid set-tops that can handle both video codecs.

Vubiquity noted that it’s already delivering 103 HD channels in MPEG-4, and expects to expand that number throughout the year.

Americable, which provides television service to US military personnel deployed in Asia, will be among the first to launch with the integrated LiveVU system this June, the company said.