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.

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