Advanced Television

Netgem SoundBox simplifies digital clutter

February 24, 2017

Entertainment solutions provider Netgem is to launch SoundBox, a new connected device category which combines the functionalities of a quality connected speaker with the capabilities of a TV box to create a platform for a new generation of connected entertainment services, taking away the hassle of having different sound and video systems in the house.

According to Netgem, the integration of a voice assistant, compatible with Amazon Alexa, further places SoundBox at the heart of the connected home.

SoundBox devices are powered by the latest generation of the Netgem home software platform, offering a seamless experience for all family TV, video and music entertainment, whatever the content origin, from and on any screen, and combined with centralised management tools for service providers.

Customised solutions based on SoundBox will be available to telecom service providers to help them launch a new generation of household bundles beyond traditional triple or quadplay services. The solution will enable them to increase service revenue by capitalising on the strong consumer appetite for music streaming services and quality audio systems, and the growing demand for digital simplicity.

To be premiered at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2017 in Barcelona (February 27th-March 2nd), SoundBox creates an opportunity for mobile network operators (MNOs) to combine their mobile tariffs with a new music experience driven by a disruptive, new smart device form factor. They can now enter the smart home through differentiated family bundles that Netgem suggests will simplify their customers’ digital lives, increase service revenue and reinforce loyalty.

“Mobile network operators aren’t naturally associated with delivering smart home solutions,” said Sylvain Thevenot, Managing Director, Netgem. “SoundBox will enable them to change that perception for the first time by giving them an opportunity to redefine the way they approach family bundles.”

“It’s something we believe will have traction,” commented Joseph Haddad, co-founder and CEO of Netgem, who said the MWC debut and introduction to the mobile sector was a precursor to introducing the product to fixed line service providers. “it is clear we want the concept to be as wide as possible,” he added. “That category will grow as we increase partnerships with device manufacturers.”

“The combination of video and music has huge potential for connected entertainment and telecom service providers. The SoundBox is a big step to unifying the entertainment experience in the smart home,” commented Nigel Walley, Decipher Media.

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