Irdeto launches new security solution to protect the device, data and services built on Android TV, allowing operators to future-proof set-top boxes

SINGAPORE, CONNECTECH ASIA - 26 June 2018 - Consumers today want choice. While providing open platforms like Android TV can help enable choice and provide pay TV operators with a competitive edge, there are security challenges they must address with open platforms. To tackle these challenges, Irdeto has launched its Android TV security solution named “Irdeto Armor.” Designed to protect the device, data and services built on Android TV, Irdeto Armor now provides operators with the ability to securely manage this open platform. By supporting broadcast, OTT and new apps through open platforms like Android TV, operators are better able to address consumer demand now and in the future.

In order to succeed in today’s ever-evolving pay TV landscape, operators need to offer innovative and secure platforms. Irdeto Armor for Android TV enables operators to reap the benefits of Android TV while maintaining full control of security on their platform, including managing content piracy and preventing loading of unauthorized software. Irdeto supports a variety of chipsets from its partners and Irdeto Armor for Android TV comes pre-integrated and ready-to-certify with Irdeto Cloaked CA, the most widely deployed cardless CA solution in the world. The pre-integrated solution enables operators to shorten the launch time of a hybrid set-top box (STB) by three to six months.

“Pay TV must evolve to survive, let alone thrive, and the services which will flourish will offer a credible user experience on all relevant devices to an increasingly discerning and value-conscious audience,” said Ed Barton, Chief Analyst of the Media, Entertainment and Consumer Practice at Ovum . “The competition from digital platforms is intensifying and relying on audience lock-in doesn’t work: operators have to balance the latitude offered by Android TV to finesse the user experience while protecting their ecosystems and business models alike. Given how important security is in underpinning audience confidence and trust on premium TV and video platforms, who operators choose to work with is a technical, commercial and, ultimately, critical decision to get right.”

Irdeto Armor combines conditional access and watermarking to protect premium content like 4K UHD. The solution also provides operators with advanced security services to help them manage a variety of threats while ensuring an optimal viewing experience. Irdeto’s highly scalable OTT security solution manages multiple DRMs and business policies, combined with high availability and 24x7 support, enabling operators to introduce OTT apps into the app store quickly and seamlessly.

“Changes in consumer behavior, the growth of unmanaged devices and the rapid evolution of STB platforms are just some of the challenges faced today by pay TV operators,” said Andrew Bunten, SVP of Content Protection at Irdeto . “The need to differentiate on content is more critical now than ever before. Open platforms like Android TV allow operators to future-proof their STB and provide consumers with choice. At the same time, protecting open platforms is crucial to preventing loss of revenue, STB investment, content and data as well as any other damage to the operator’s brand. With Irdeto, operators have a trusted security partner to help them achieve their business goals on any platform.”

To learn more about Irdeto Armor for Android TV, please visit: https://irdeto.com/media-and-entertainment/open-platform-security.html.