NXP Software has unveiled its LifeVibes QuickStart software, which is designed to improve the quality of the user experience of mobile TV.
NXP claims that the software can cut times needed to buffer video streams by up to a factor of three, so viewing starts quickly. This reduced start-up latency also makes channel zapping easier, the company added. The software reportedly smoothes viewing by reducing picture freeze and re-buffering caused by momentary deteriorations in network conditions.
NXP said that, available as part of LifeVibes TvPlayer, QuickStart addresses key issues that have hampered the uptake of streaming video and mobile TV. In particular, it overcomes the slow start-up, tedious channel zapping. QuickStart’s efficient buffer management technology can reportedly reduce the typical buffering time for a video stream, from around eight to 15 seconds, to as little as three to five seconds.
According to NXP, the software can run on mobile devices that support video streaming and/or mobile TV, and it does not require any changes to existing network infrastructure. Also, as a purely software solution, QuickStart can be pre-installed on handsets or offered as application download for smartphones.
Peter Berg, marketing director of NXP Software, said: Mobile TV and video are major growth markets for operators, service and content providers. Juniper Research predicts a 10-fold growth to $12 billion end-user generated revenues in 2012. By boosting the user’s mobile TV experience, QuickStart can become a key enabler to drive consumer demand.
