Tennis Channel Selects Octoshape and B2 Broadcasting to Live Stream 2011 French Open
Octoshape and B2 Broadcasting today have been chosen by Tennis Channel as the exclusive provider of video streaming services for the prestigious multi-venue and multi-week 110th French Open.
Atlanta, GA(31 May 2011)
Octoshape and B2 Broadcasting today announced they have been chosen by Tennis Channel as the exclusive provider of video streaming services for the prestigious multi-venue and multi-week 110th French Open.
B2 Broadcasting is providing the onsite encoding services, as well as the enhanced multi court video player experience. The encoded video signals are acquired using the Octoshape Infinite Uplink technologies and streaming to the audience is delivered through the Octoshape Infinite Edge technology suite. Fans have access to live coverage of 165 matches from Paris beginning May 22 and concluding on June 5.
The live and on demand stream coverage includes unique Octoshape features such as instant-on, DVR functionality and picture-in-picture viewing options. The player experience also includes bonus features developed by B2 Broadcasting, such as live chat and event stats.
"It's important to Tennis Channel that our viewers are able to enjoy the French Open online with the highest quality video services available," said Robyn Miller, senior vice president, Tennis Channel. "We partnered with B2 Broadcasting and Octoshape to achieve this, and are very pleased with the result."
Tennis Channel has more hours of live French Open coverage than any U.S. television network, approximately 75 overall. The network is available in more than 55 million homes during the tournament, the most prestigious annual clay-court event in tennis. However, for those who do not currently receive Tennis Channel, Tennischannel.com provides a live online stream that allows you to watch all the normal coverage for free.
"We are delighted that Tennis Channel has chosen us to live stream the landmark sporting event - further proof that event webcasters are drawn to the proposition of providing viewers a higher quality viewing experience that's more affordable than previously possible," said Scott Brown, U.S. General Manager and Vice President for Strategic Relations for Octoshape.
"The French Open is a fantastic event for B2 to leverage our Octoshape partnership and our core broadcasting competencies in providing a robust broadband player for Tennis Channel," said Paul Dingwitz, CTO B2 Broadcasting.
The tournament consists of both men and women's singles and doubles, and draws a mixed doubles event. There are also singles and doubles events for both boys and girls (players under 18) which are part of the Grade A category of tournaments.