Microsoft releases Mediaroom Presentation Framework

Microsoft has released a beta version of Mediaroom Presentation Framework, which will help IPTV operators differentiate their services from those provided by cable and satellite operators.

The framework has been released to the 150 companies on the Microsoft programme, including BT which uses Mediaroom to power its BT Vision IPTV service.

The beta version allows software developers to more quickly create new IPTV applications and services – with a matter of weeks.

Mediaroom Presentation Framework provides new tools allowing developers to seamlessly blend on-screen broadcasting with information pulled from the Web.

This has the potential to make television much more interactive – viewers could choose the viewing angle for a football match for example.

In the US, AT&T is already adding interactive features to its U-Verse service – a new, on-screen ‘U-bar’ provides local news and even access to photos on Flickr.