Brazilian carrier Oi announced it has chosen Alcatel-Lucent and Microsoft as its IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) vendors. Oi expects to launch IPTV services during the second half of this year. According to a Pyramid Research report, IPTV services are expected to increase from 21,000 subscriptions in 2011 to 1.5 million in 2016.
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Oi said its IPTV services will focus on 20 target cities, in addition to Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte, which the carrier already disclosed as target cities. The launch will take place gradually, and the company is keeping the names of the other locations confidential.
Alcatel-Lucent will provide IPTV equipment, and Microsoft’s Mediaroom will be the carrier’s IPTV platform.
In addition, Oi is investing in a new fiber optic network that will connect clients’ homes as well as providing high-speed Internet access and fixed telephony.
Oi’s director Eduardo Aspesi noted that IPTV will enable the company to generate revenue through value-added services, such as video on demand (VOD). “With this new service, cable TV, Oi strengthens its convergent offer strategy, ” he said.
