Acer Inc is going to Oracle affiliate Network Computer Inc for the software to run on its CyberTV set-top box. CyberTV, an integrated television and internet service and the latest in a host of interactive television projects, is due to be launched in Singapore in March 1998. The TV Navigator software will run on Acer’s CyberTV Intel-based box and is designed to provide enhanced television services. NCI’s offering has a picture-in- picture feature enabling users to access television pictures and the internet simultaneously. Redwood Shores, California-based NCI says its software will enable service providers to customize their set-top with different user interfaces and interactive services. Such services might include live chat sessions, electronic program guides and play along game shows that integrate with television programs. The company says viewers will also be able to customize the software to receive personalized information relating to their interests such as weather, stock quotes and news, which will be displayed on-screen alongside usual broadcasts. NCI, of course, already has a joint venture with Netchannel Inc and Thomson Consumer Electronics for set-top boxes that enable enhanced TV mixed television and internet services (CI No 3,225).
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