ITV

Tag: IPTV

  • Yupp TV helps crack down on global IPTV piracy racket

    Yupp TV helps crack down on global IPTV piracy racket

    MUMBAI: A global piracy party just got shut down—with a solid rap on the knuckles, thanks to global OTT aggregation platform the Uday Reddy-run Yupp TV. The streamer has over the past two years been working with authorities in India and the US, which has now resulted in the bust-up  of a sprawling illegal IPTV empire that’s been streaming premium Indian and international content without paying a paisa in licence fees.

    The syndicate, operating under slick brand names like Boss IPTV, Guru IPTV, Tashan IPTV, Brampton IPTV, Punjabi IPTV, Vois IPTV, and UltrastreamTV, has been caught red-handed pushing pirated streams from the likes of Star, Sony, Zee, Sun Network, Aha, and even global OTT giants like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and major international sports leagues.

    All this was being served to unsuspecting users via Android and Linux-based set-top boxes and apps on smart devices, aggressively marketed through websites, blogs, and social media—at throwaway rates far below legitimate subscriptions.

    But it wasn’t just the broadcasters who were getting robbed. Authorities say user data—credit cards, passwords, even identities—was likely being harvested and possibly linked to more sinister operations including phishing, tax fraud, and even terrorism financing.

    YuppTV, one of the legal players worst hit by the piracy plague, estimates South Asian broadcasters lose $200–$300 million every year to illegal IPTV operations. The platform triggered a previous crackdown in 2021, when a complaint led to the Faridabad Cyber Crime Branch arresting six people involved with Boss IPTV.

    The matter has now gone international. YuppTV has filed a civil suit in the United States, represented by Goldstein Law Group, LLC, citing criminal copyright violations under 18 U.S.C. § 2319. According to GLP:
    “Using pirate IPTV services may result in felony charges under U.S. law. Non-citizens could face deportation.” That is, criminal activities like watching pirated content  has been brought under the immigration customs enforcement’s (ICE’s) ambit. 

    The latest blow came from Gujarat’s Gandhinagar Cyber Crime Unit, which arrested Mohammed Murtuza Ali, allegedly the kingpin behind Bos IPTV. Based out of Jalandhar, Punjab, his operation reportedly raked in a staggering ?700 crore (roughly $84 million) annually, with over five million subscribers.

    Legal agencies are urging users to quit illegal streaming services immediately and switch to licensed alternatives like YuppTV (www.yupptv.com) to avoid falling foul of the law—or worse.

    This crackdown makes it clear: the era of “chalega yaar, sasta hai” streaming might soon come with handcuffs attached.

  • Nordic households caught in the act: piracy up 16 per cent as illegal IPTV continues to boom

    Nordic households caught in the act: piracy up 16 per cent as illegal IPTV continues to boom

    MUMBAI: Piracy in the Nordics isn’t just about dodging subscription fees anymore—it’s now fuelling organised crime. New research by Mediavision reveals over 1.5 million households in the region are paying for illegal IPTV services, up 200,000 homes (16 per cent) from spring 2024. These services offer cut-price, unlawful access to premium TV channels and streaming content.

    While Finland lags slightly in pirate uptake, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden are sailing in the same leaky boat. Behind the scenes? A report in late 2024 had disclosed that the web of illegal operators had ties to trafficking and drug cartels.

    “Piracy continues to pose a serious threat to the industry,” said Mediavision.  senior analyst Adrian Grande. “As illegal IPTV keeps growing, it is encouraging that the issue is on the agenda, but it is also clear that action is needed to tackle the problem”.

    The reason: rising living costs and high OTT prices were pushing households into piracy’s arms.

    And it’s not just a fringe issue—25 per cent of 15–74-year-olds in the region streamed or downloaded content illegally in mid-2024 alone. The Nordic Content Protection (NCP) had in 2024 sounded the alarm, not just on copyright theft but its criminal underbelly. 

    To fight back, the NCP had teamed up with TV 2 Denmark, Viaplay Group, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Allente to launch high-impact anti-piracy campaigns, fronted by local TV personalities. These aired throughout 2024, hoping to shock users into realising that their dodgy stream might be bankrolling crime.

    In Norway, legislators are exploring a bold fix: a payment ban on IPTV services, similar to restrictions already placed on offshore gambling. Meanwhile, Sweden’s laws remain murky, with NCP pushing for stricter, clearer rules.

    As pirates loot the digital seas of Europe, Indian broadcasters and streamers would be wise to keep their periscopes up. How much of a revenue loss they are incurring on account of  the Nordic pilferage only a deeper inquiry can ascertain.

  • Sushil Kumar Das leaps up the ladder at converged media solutions provider ABV to chief commercial officer

    Sushil Kumar Das leaps up the ladder at converged media solutions provider ABV to chief commercial officer

    MUMBAI: After nearly 12 years with the company, Sushil Kumaar Das has landed the top commercial job at ABV International, taking the reins as chief commercial officer for south Asia.

    The promotion caps a lengthy tenure with the convergent media solutions provider, where Das previously served as country manager since November 2013. In his new role, he’ll oversee sales, account management and business development across Indian and international markets.

    “I am deeply grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me by the leadership at ABV International,” Das announced on social media. “I look forward to contributing to the company’s growth, navigating new challenges, and driving impactful strategies across the region.”

    A seasoned hand in the media technology sector, Das brings over 24 years of experience to his new position, with particular expertise in pay TV, digital rights management, conditional access systems, IPTV and OTT platforms. Before joining ABV, he cut his teeth at MagnaQuest Technology, Kale Consultant and Softline Software Services.

    With a master’s degree in business administration specialising in marketing and telecom management, plus LinkedIn certification in executive leadership, Das describes himself as “passionate about finding openings and opportunities, delivering results, and building long-term relationships with clients and partners.”

    As streaming wars heat up across South Asia and traditional broadcasting models continue their digital transformation, ABV’s new commercial chief will have his work cut out maintaining the company’s position in this rapidly evolving landscape.

  • Airtel beams entertainment into 2000 cities with mega IPTV splash

    Airtel beams entertainment into 2000 cities with mega IPTV splash

    MUMBAI:  Bharti Airtel has fired a broadside into India’s home entertainment market, launching IPTV services that promise to turn living rooms into multimedia playgrounds across 2,000 cities.

    The telecom giant’s latest offering bundles 29 streaming apps — including Netflix, Apple TV+, and Amazon Prime — with 350 television channels, all riding on Airtel’s high-speed Wi-Fi networks.

    Chief of connected homes Siddharth Sharma  declared the launch as “a new era in home entertainment where cutting-edge technology seamlessly blends traditional linear TV with streaming”.

    The telco has drawn up a handful of packages for the IPTV service based on the broadband speed and number of apps. The following are the plans:  
    * Rs 699 (40 Mbps, 26 apps)
    * Rs. 899 100 Mbps 26 Streaming Apps 350 TV Channels
    * Rs. 1099 200 Mbps 28 Streaming Apps including Apple TV+, Amazon
    Prime 350 TV Channels 
    * Rs. 1599 300 Mbps 29 Streaming Apps including Netflix, Apple TV+,
             Amazon Prime 350 TV Channels* Rs 3,999 (1 Gbps, 29 apps)
    * Introductory sweetener: 30 days free service

    Customers can activate services through Airtel’s website or stores. Existing Wi-Fi subscribers can upgrade via the Airtel Thanks App.

  • Nick Nikolov launches GLE – Global Light Entertainment LLC

    Nick Nikolov launches GLE – Global Light Entertainment LLC

    MUMBAI: Dubai-based media & entertainment executive Nick Nikolov has launched his own firm  GLE – Global Light Entertainment LLC, and announcement he mad recently on Linkedin. As its CEO, Nikolov  aims to forge strategic collaborations with telecom and TV operators, driving a new era of engaging and accessible TV entertainment.

    “My idea is to  steer GLE toward fostering innovative partnerships and redefining television entertainment globally,” he said. 

    Based in the United Arab Emirates, Nikolov brings decades of expertise in content strategy, business development, and media production. 

    Nikolov’s extensive career spans more than two decades, highlighted by pivotal roles such as CEO of Global Network TV Channels, and managing director of Sky Pal Network. His diverse portfolio includes leading content strategies for pay TV, IPTV, OTT, and VOD platforms, reflecting a profound understanding of the evolving media landscape.

    He also established and managed Mimyuni Media Entertainment Ltd., an influential media company where he served for nearly 16 years, delivering premium media solutions across international markets.

    Prior to getting into television, Nikolov worked for more than fifteen years in advertising and marketing in agencies and companies like Mondelez, L’Oreal, O&M, M&C Saatchi, in Russia, Europe and London. 

    A strong advocate for lifelong learning, Nikolov holds advanced degrees in business administration, NLP business communications, and film/TV production from prestigious institutions like London Business School, NLP University New York, and London Film Academy. His cinematic background, coupled with his business acumen, uniquely positions him to bridge creative and operational aspects in the entertainment sector
     

  • BSNL signs IPTV provider Skypro to offer entertainment services to its customers

    BSNL signs IPTV provider Skypro to offer entertainment services to its customers

    MUMBAI:: It’s a connection that they are hoping will work out for the best. State-owned telecoms provider Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) has announced a strategic link up  with IPTV provider Skypro as a part of which it hopes to bring next generation TV  and internet experiences to the telco’s consumers across India.

    A press release states that BSNL’s FTTH  customers will gain free-of-cost access to Skypro’s IPTV services through the Skypro TV app in their smart TVs. The app will offer  500 plus  HD/SD/live channels, 20+ OTT and various other value added services, interactive features, with no set-top required.

    BSNL CGM Punjab circle Ajay Kumar Karaha said – “On 28 November CMD  Robert Ravi launched our new internet TV service, powered by Skypro’s state-of-the-art IPTV platform. This service offers FTTH customers access to popular channels like Colors, Star, Zee, and sports channels like Star Sports, with no need for separate bandwidth and set-top box. After thorough testing, we’re ready to roll it out in Chandigarh, starting with 8,000 customers. We also plan to expand internationally, providing BSNL users with easy access to this exciting new feature.”

    Skypro chief technology officer Pawanpreet Dhaliwal said “ This partnership with BSNL is a proud moment for Skypro as we continue our mission to revolutionise entertainment in India. We are starting from Punjab circle and the service will extend to other circles soon. Our focus has always been on delivering innovative solutions that transform the way people consume content. By joining forces with BSNL, we are combining reliable connectivity with cutting-edge entertainment to make world-class viewing experiences accessible to every home.” 
    . 
    “We are excited to partner with BSNL to bring Indians a truly modern and immersive entertainment experience,” added  Skypro business head Nitin Sood. “At Skypro we have been working towards building solutions that bring the quality of the theatre screen in the comfort of your living rooms. This partnership represents a major milestone for us, enabling Skypro to expand its reach and deliver cutting-edge entertainment solutions to a wider audience. By combining our expertise with BSNL’s extensive network, we are setting a new benchmark for home entertainment in India.”

    Skypro claims that its service offers the lowest latency, multi CDN, low bandwidth, low channel zap time and crystal clear viewing experience for the customer.  

    “By joining forces with BSNL, Skypro is stepping into a new era of entertainment,” said Skypro president emeritus Ranjit Singh Sandhu. “This collaboration is a huge leap towards our vision of making premium content accessible to all, combining BSNL’s reliable network with Skypro’s innovative technology to deliver an unparalleled viewing experience that connects and engages audiences across India.“

    To date, Skypro has partnered with over 100+ ISPs across the country, expanding their reach and ensuring high-quality services for users nationwide. Additionally, it is also planning the launch of Oneplay – an online cloud gaming platform. 

    With Oneplay, consumers will be able to stream their favourite games anytime, anywhere, on any device, especially on TVs without the need for high-end gaming consoles with players’ progress securely saved in the cloud for seamless gaming experiences. This service will enable rural India access to high-end games at a fraction of the cost. 

  • Television has continuously evolved from just an hour of broadcast a day to 24-hour programming: Vivek Raina

    Television has continuously evolved from just an hour of broadcast a day to 24-hour programming: Vivek Raina

    Mumbai: In a strategic move aligned with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s projection of 202 million cable TV homes by 2026, Excitel aims to capitalise on converting “Dark Homes” into WiFi-enabled hubs of digital entertainment.

    For an affordable price of Rs 599 subscribers gain access to a comprehensive package that includes 21 premium OTT platforms, over 550 premium TV channels, and blazing-fast 400 Mbps internet speed. This plan not only meets but exceeds the burgeoning demands of consumers transitioning from traditional cable TV to connected TVs.

    Indiantelevision.com caught up with Excitel founder & CEO Vivek Raina where he delved more deeply into the topic of IPTV setting to transform 202 million cable TV homes by 2026 and much more…

    Edited excerpts

    On elaborating the features of Excitel’s IPTV service, particularly the inclusion of 21 premium OTTs, 550+ premium TV channels, and 400 Mbps internet speed

    The real advantage of Excitel’s IPTV service lies in its simplicity and cost-efficiency. Traditionally, consumers have had to juggle multiple subscriptions: cable or DTH services for live TV, separate internet plans, and additional OTT subscriptions for on-demand content. It’s a hassle to manage and a significant expense. With our IPTV service, we eliminate this complexity by offering a comprehensive solution that bundles live TV, OTT platforms, and high-speed internet into one seamless package. Just imagine having all your entertainment needs met through a single subscription – live TV channels, your favorite OTT content, and super-fast internet, all in one place. That’s the convenience and efficiency we’re delivering. Plus, our high-speed internet ensures that your viewing experience is smooth and enjoyable, with no buffering or lag.

    Excitel’s IPTV service is truly a one-stop solution for all your entertainment needs, reflecting our commitment to making your life easier and more enjoyable.

    On the main challenges consumers face in minimizing their home entertainment costs

    Consumers often face challenges managing multiple subscriptions for TV, internet, and OTT content, resulting in both complexity and high costs. Excitel’s IPTV service simplifies this by offering a single comprehensive package that includes live TV, OTT platforms, and high-speed internet. With everything in one place, subscribers enjoy convenience, cost-efficiency, and a seamless entertainment experience. Our commitment to providing a one-stop solution reflectsour dedication to making life easier and more enjoyable for our customers.

    On planning to reach and convert “Dark Homes” without television to WiFi-enabled homes?

    Our approach has always been forward-thinking. It all started back in April 2023 when we introduced our Smart TV plans, which were a huge hit. Building on that success, in September 2023 we offered combined Smart TV and smart projector packages. These offerings really struck a chord with customers, setting the stage for the launch of our IPTV services in February 2024. And let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer. Moving forward, we remain committed to providing affordable and relevant offers to our consumers, consistently bridging the gap and penetrating more households into the era of WiFi-enabled homes.

    On strategies you are employing to penetrate the market and achieve widespread adoption of Excitel’s IPTV service

    At Excitel, our dedication lies in putting consumers first, empowering them to expect nothing but the best. Back in 2015, while the industry was settling for 512 Kbps internet speeds, we set a new standard with 20 Mbps. Since then, we’ve continued to innovate, ensuring our services meet the varied needs of our customers at affordable prices. Our latest offering, IPTV service, bundles 300 Mbps high speed internet with access to over 21 OTT platforms and live TV in one, all designed to cater to every household through fiber to the home network while keeping costs down. We identified a gap in how Wi-Fi services were bundled and delivered, and since then we

    have been tackling that head-on to drive the widespread adoption of our IPTV service.

    On TRAI reporting India to have 202 million cable TV homes by 2026

    There was a time when people said television was dying, but this growth trend from TRAI shows that’s far from the truth. Television has continuously evolved—from just an hour of broadcast a day to 24-hour programming, to letting us watch our favorite shows before their scheduled time. Now, it’s all about being able to watch anything, anytime, on demand.

    This growth in cable TV homes will significantly impact the home entertainment industry by increasing the demand for more comprehensive and convenient viewing options, like IPTV. The expansion of television services supports the growth of IPTV, as it aligns with the trend of consumers seeking greater control over their viewing experience. We see this growth as a positive development that will revolutionize how people perceive and interact with home entertainment.

    On IMARC Group reporting India’s IPTV market size to exhibit a growth rate (CAGR) of 18.70 percent during 2024-2032

    We are absolutely aware of this trend, and it only strengthens our objectives. We’ve always known that IPTV will be a game changer in the home broadband industry. The evolving trends and people’s changing viewing habits have driven this innovation, and we firmly believe that IPTV is the future. Our aim is to revolutionize home entertainment, offering unparalleled convenience and a comprehensive solution that meets all their needs.

  • NXTDIGITAL Media Group forges strategic alliance with 7Star Group

    NXTDIGITAL Media Group forges strategic alliance with 7Star Group

    Mumbai: ONEOTT Intertainment Ltd (OIL), India’s fourth largest private internet service provider (ISP), and 7Star Group, a leading regional ISP, have announced a strategic alliance – focused on growing the broadband business. OIL, a part of NXTDIGITAL Media Group and a subsidiary of Hinduja Global Solutions Ltd. (HGS), will share infrastructure and technology with 7Star – leveraging both alliance partners inherent strengths in the fast-growing broadband space, for growth.

    This alliance underlines NXTDIGITAL Media Group’s deep commitment to delivering value to its customers and sets another industry benchmark for established industry players coming together to offer customers integrated services backed by excellent support. The much respected 7Star Group has a strong network in Mumbai and Maharashtra and enjoys deep customer relationships. Both partners are looking to focus on growing the broadband business in Maharashtra initially, whilst setting the tone to expand services together in other markets.

    The alliance is also developing plans to offer integrated services to their customers that would extend beyond broadband to other services like OTT, IPTV, WIFI, VoIP/intercom and even bespoke CCTV solutions.

    Speaking on the alliance, HGS whole-time director and OIL MD and CEO Vynsley Fernandes said “The future is all about collaboration and there is no better alliance partner than 7Star who have established a high standard of service to its broadband customer base. We will look to leverage each other’s inherent capabilities in accelerating the broadband uptake.”

    7Star Group founders Nadir Ali Jairaj and M M Devendran echoed his sentiment, adding “We are delighted to form this alliance with OIL, the broadband vertical of the Hinduja Group – easily the most respected brand name in this space. We believe the opportunity of growing broadband and expanding to newer markets is now and we will continue to deliver value to our customers, together”.

  • TRAI invites stakeholder’s comments on proposed amendments to the interconnection regulation 2017

    TRAI invites stakeholder’s comments on proposed amendments to the interconnection regulation 2017

    Mumbai: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued a draft consultation paper to bring necessary changes in the Telecommunication (Broadcasting & Cable) services interconnection (Addressable System) Regulation, 2017. 

    Trai notified the interconnection regulation on 3 March 2017 and further its first amendment was notified on 30 October 2019. The first draft of the interconnection regulation was issued on 27 August 2019 and a proposed amendment was initiated to include Digital Rights Management System requirements (DRM).

    What is DRM?

    “DRM is a systematic approach to copyright protection for digital media. The purpose of DRM is to prevent unauthorized redistribution of digital media and restrict the ways consumers can copy content they’ve purchased,” Trai stated in a statement. 

    “DRM products were developed in response to the rapid increase in online piracy of commercially marketed material, which proliferated through the widespread use of peer-to-peer file exchange programs. Typically, DRM is implemented by embedding code that prevents copying, specifies a time period in which the content can be accessed or limits the number of devices the media can be installed on,” it stated.

    The authority also stated in a release that during its consultations, it received numerous feedback that the IPTV-based DPOs are switching to DRM technology. “It is necessary that the consultation committee covers the DRM-based networks and provides for enabling provisions for such operators,” Trai stated. 

    Trai conducted numerous consultation processes and gathered comments and suggestions from various stakeholders on this issue. Realising the concern with DRM, the authority decided to deal with DRM issues in a separate consultation paper. Trai further formed a committee to study DRM system issues. This committee prepared and submitted a report as well as the draft of ‘System Requirement for Digital Right Management (DRM)’ to the authority

    Currently, Trai has invited comments and suggestions from stakeholders on the proposed amendment and draft of the Telecommunication (Broadcasting & Cable) services interconnection (Addressable System) Regulation, 2022, which includes the issues related to the DRM system. The stakeholders can submit their comments on the draft regulations by 7 October and counter-comments by 21 October.

  • Stakeholders can send feedback to TRAI’s recommendations on MSO’s platform services by 23 May

    Stakeholders can send feedback to TRAI’s recommendations on MSO’s platform services by 23 May

    MUMBAI: TRAI has announced on Friday that any stakeholder desirous of sending their views/comments/suggestions on the proposed Regulatory Framework for Platform Services offered by MSOs and TRAI’s recommendations can do so through email by 23 May.

    TRAI has clarified that views/comments/suggestions sought are only with respect to Platform Services offered by MSOs.

    In February last year, TRAI had recommended that MSOs be allowed to carry no more than 15 platform channels. Platform channels are channels or services offered by MSOs, local cable operators (LCOs) and DTH operators exclusively to their subscribers as value-added services.

    TRAI had recommended that programmes transmitted by the DTH operators or MSOs or IPTV operators as a platform service shall be exclusive and the same shall not be permitted to be shared directly or indirectly with any other DPO.

    “In case the same programme is found available on the platform service of any other DPO, MIB/TRAI may issue directions to immediately stop the transmission of such a programme. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) also reserves the right for cancellation of registration of such platform service of the DTH operator/MSOs/IPTV operator,” TRAI had said in its recommendations document on 2 February 2021.

    TRAI had first issued recommendations on Regulatory Framework for Platform Services for DTH and MSOs back in 2014.