TiVo Inc. and Cox Communications, the third-largest cable MSO, announced that they have entered into an agreement to offer TiVo Premiere with integrated Cox On DEMAND service to Cox subscribers.
This represents the first time that a cable operator will make its entire video on demand (VOD) library available via a retail DVR, the two declared. Also, they said, TiVo Premiere will become the first retail product to fully integrate a cable VOD service, along with linear television and broadband content accessible through TiVo’s user interface and intuitive search capabilities.
As part of the agreement, Cox will promote TiVo Premiere to its subscribers, support TiVo Premiere as an optional set-top, and provide free installation for TiVo Premiere boxes purchased by subscribers at Best Buy and other retail and online outlets including TiVo’s own website.
Customers will need a CableCARD for access to Cox services. Cox will promote TiVo Premiere via its website, cross-channel advertising, and via direct marketing to its video and high-speed internet subscribers.
“We recognize that consumers are attracted to a growing range of devices that enable them to access broadband content and interactive capabilities,” said Pat Esser, President of Cox Communications. “With TiVo Premiere, Cox is providing consumers even more choice. Our subscribers will not only have access to TiVo’s user experience but Cox’s robust Advanced TV offering including On DEMAND service.”
“Making our video on demand library available to customers who are using TiVo Premiere ensures that they can continue to enjoy all of the great television and movie choices available through our offerings but now have it seamlessly combined with access to a myriad of broadband content in addition to what we offer today,” said Steve Necessary, Vice President of Video Strategy and Product Development for Cox.
“This is a major opportunity for TiVo, the cable industry and television viewers alike,” said TiVo CEO Tom Rogers.
