Midco Set to Deploy TiVo Next-Gen Platform and Android TV Set-tops

Sioux Falls, S.D.-based Midco has become the latest tier 2 cable operator to sign onto TiVo’s Next-Gen Platform, with an eye toward delivering IPTV to Android TV set-tops and mobile devices.

Midco delivers TV, internet and phone service to 385,000 homes and businesses in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Kansas and Wisconsin with cable TV, high-speed internet and landline voice services. It had previously deployed the TiVo Experience 4 user interface to its video customers, but is now looking to build out the capacity to integrate OTT experiences along with its managed linear service.

TiVo’s Next-Gen platform is a cloud-based technology that delivers both IP-based VOD and linear video, as well as a full range of cloud DVR features, to a wide range of set-top platforms, as well as iOS and Android mobile devices.

Like other tier 2 operators who’ve signed on to Next-Gen platform—a group that includes RCN, Armstrong and TDS Telecom—Midco will eventually roll out thin-client set-tops powered by Android TV.

Notably, TDS announced earlier this week that forged a deal with Arris to provide Android TV-powered devices.

Related: TDS Becomes First North American Operator to Deploy Arris’ Android TV Set-Top

“With TiVo’s Next-Gen Platform, we are able to easily and rapidly deploy superior entertainment experiences that meet the evolving needs of our customers,” said Jon Pederson, chief technology officer, Midco. “Our business is built on innovation, and TiVo’s industry-leading solutions enable us to deliver a simple, smart, and elegant customer experience, while leapfrogging our competitors.”

Added Jeffrey Glahn, VP of North American sales for TiVo: “TiVo’s advanced platform gives operators a flexible migration path to IPTV, allowing them to continuously innovate and easily introduce must-have features to its customers.”

TiVo announces its second quarter earnings results later this afternoon. 

Daniel Frankel

Daniel Frankel is the managing editor of Next TV, an internet publishing vertical focused on the business of video streaming. A Los Angeles-based writer and editor who has covered the media and technology industries for more than two decades, Daniel has worked on staff for publications including E! Online, Electronic Media, Mediaweek, Variety, paidContent and GigaOm. You can start living a healthier life with greater wealth and prosperity by following Daniel on Twitter today!