KIT Digital Releases New Platform With Features for Social and Connected Devices

Technology provider KIT Digital released the newest generation of its KIT Video Platform today. There are two editions, KIT Cloud, positioned as an online video platform for content providers seeking a turnkey solution, and KIT Cosmos, which is targeted for pay-TV and over-the-top video providers who want to deliver a full multi-screen experience to subscribers. KIT is also announcing new social TV features and a "Connected Device Framework." Alex Blum, KIT's COO and Gannon Hall, its EVP, Global Marketing, recently brought me up to speed on the news.

Alex and Gannon said KIT Video Platform is the culmination of over 6 months of work integrating technology from acquisitions made earlier this year of KickApps, Kyte, Kewego, Polymedia and ioko, with internal technologies. KIT also unveiled the KIT Platform Operations Manager, an operational support system that works with KIT Cloud or KIT Cosmos to manage security and quality assurance. The new social TV features include the ability to turn companion mobile devices into TV remotes, the ability to create interactive mobile apps that compliment the TV viewing experience and synchronizing mobile content/ads with the TV programs, plus others.

The KIT Connected Device Framework includes app templates and an SDK aimed at streamlining delivery of unified apps to connected and mobile devices. The goal is for customers to use the framework to configure apps for new devices without writing any new code. The templates are for iOS and Android devices, plus TiVo, Boxee, Google TV and others. There are also connectors for ad, analytics and CDN platforms, plus TV Everywhere authentication like Adobe Pass and various social features. KIT cited initial connected device framework implementations with Globecast and Telecom Argentina.

Earlier this week, KIT announced that its ioko group is supporting and managing Sky's Sky Go service which combines its online and mobile video offerings. The companies have had a relationship dating to 2005, when ioko helped develop the initial Sky Player Platform, Sky's first OTT effort.  

Taken together, the flurry of news from KIT indicates the company continues to innovate as it pursues customers around the globe. The KIT Cosmos product, another option for pay-TV operators to compete better with upstart video providers, is further evidence that customer experiences will continue to improve.

Categories: Technology

Topics: KIT Digital