Softel has announced that Showtime Networks is using Softel’s MediaSphere interactive television (iTV) playout platform to distribute enhanced TV binary interchange format (EBIF) applications nationwide with the integration and commissioning of MediaSphere TX at its network operation center in Hauppauge, N.Y.

On February 26, Showtime first delivered an interactive EBIF application to all of its Verizon FiOS subscribers on its Showtime HD channel. The application enhanced its live coverage of the Strikeforce Challengers Mixed Martial Arts fight card.

"Softel worked closely with us and our other technology partners, Ensequence, VDS and Verizon, to provide a seamlessly integrated solution," said David Preisman, VP of interactive television, Showtime Networks, in a statement.

Showtime is using MediaSphere TX, complete with a redundant failover solution, on its satellite uplink to deliver EBIF interactive applications nationally for Showtime subscribers on Verizon FiOS. Via its comprehensive SDK, MediaSphere is fully integrated with Showtime’s scheduling system as well as with Ensequence’s iTV Manager.

The Daily

Subscribe
Friday–May 9

The Name’s ESPN, Just ESPN

Forget ESPN Flagship, ESPN All Access or ESPN DTC. The name for ESPN’s forthcoming direct-to-consumer offering of its flagship channel is expected to just be called “ESPN.” Sources told CNBC that execs

Read the Full Issue
The Skinny is delivered on Tuesday and focuses on the cable profession. You'll stay in the know on the headlines, topics and special issues you value most. Sign Up

Calendar

Sep 11
2025 Faxies Awards Faxies Nominations Open! Final deadline: 4/4/25
Full Calendar

Jobs

Seeking an INDUSTRY JOB or hiring for one?
VIEW JOBS

In conjunction with our sister brand, Cynopsis, we are offering hiring managers a deep pool of media-savvy, skilled candidates at a range of experience levels and sectors. The result will be an even more robust industry job board, to help both employers and job seekers.

Contact Carley Ashley, [email protected], for more information about posting a job on the website and our Jobs newsletter, sent twice weekly to 85,000 media professionals.