Opera Software reports that its embedded browser for devices is available for sublicensing with a Linux-based software stack for IPTVs and IP-STBs (Internet protocol TVs and set-top boxes) from Amino spin-off IntAct. Opera for Devices can serve as a platform for custom web-based interfaces, or simply allow users to surf on their TVs, the companies say.

IntAct says its Linux-based IP-TV/STB client software stack is highly portable, supporting PowerPC, MIPS, ARM, x86, and SHx. The stack is said to enable network operators to remotely manage and control deployed STBs, “regardless of manufacturer.” In addition, the stack has been pre-integrated with “the most popular middleware, conditional access, and VOD servers,” IntAct says, and customers reportedly can use an included user interface or write their own.

Opera says its Opera for Devices browser has now been “pre-integrated” with IntAct's off-the-shelf software stack. Additionally, the browser's flexible API supports integration with custom interfaces, and IntAct plans to offer Opera-specific SDKs (software development kits) for customers wishing to build interactive TV applications based on the Opera browser and IntAct stack.

IntAct says says its client software and management products for IPTV have shipped in about 700,000 devices, in 50 countries. They have been used by about 500 companies, including commercial deployments and trials, it says.

Availability

No availability details were announced. However, Amino set-top boxes pre-integrated with Opera 8.5 appear to have been available since January of this year.

Opera 8.5 for Devices shipped in January of this year. Opera 9 for Devices, which will support browser-based “widget” applications, is expected in Q4.

 
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