Sagemcom has chosen to leverage semiconductor company Broadcom Corporation (BRCM)’s video decoder technology to enable a live broadcast of select 2014 FIFA World Cup events in Ultra High Definition (Ultra HD).
Sagemcom is a dominant player in broadband terminals, supplying digital set-top boxes in Europe. The company will use Broadcom’s BCM7445 video decoder and BCM7252 System-on-a-Chip (SoC) technology to broadcast World Cup events.
Broadcom’s Decoders
Ultra HD filming, transmission and broadcast require considerably greater bandwidth. Broadcom’s Ultra-HD video decoder SoC technology, powered with High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC), reduce bandwidth usage by 50%. This technology will facilitate Sagemcom to deliver 2x faster display resolution speed and heightened color gradation, translating into 4x resolution of HD displays.
The Ultra HD will intensify the viewing experience, with fluid and life-like picture quality. Additionally, users will be able to download Ultra HD content in half the time.
FIFA Viewership
According to unaudited broadcast figures released by FIFA, the group stages of the 2014 international soccer tournament have broken television viewing records across most nations.
FIFA has signed licensing agreements with over 700 media broadcasters, ranging from television and radio to Internet. This year’s tournament marks the launch of ultra high-definition streaming of the concluding part of the sporting event, an initiative of Broadcom, Globosat and Elemental Technologies. (Read: Broadcom Powers Ultra HD World Cup Broadcast)
Other Collaborations
Broadcom also partnered with Oi, one of the leading operators in Brazil, wherein Oi will use the former’s flagship SoC technology to power live broadcasts of the World Cup in Ultra HD. Broadcom's advanced decoding will help Oi deliver stunning live-action viewing.
In addition, Broadcom will extend its SoC technology to NETServicos, Latin America's largest multi-service cable company, for live Ultra HD broadcasts of select World Cup events.
Moving Forward
The precise, realistic quality of Ultra HD represents a momentous step forward in the next generation digital broadcasting. According to Digitimes Research, Ultra HD TV panel shipments are expected to soar 475% in 2014, reinforcing the evolution in multi-screen connected home entertainment.
Broadcom has chosen a great platform to initiate the execution of Ultra HD satellite transmission, along with other broadcasters like The Walt Disney Company (DIS) -owned ESPN, Telef (TEF) and Rogers Communications Inc. (RCI). With its cutting-edge technology and extensive footprint, Broadcom is well-poised to capitalize on the excellent potential of this market, going forward.
Broadcom presently sports a Zacks Rank #1(Strong Buy).
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