I know this information ties into us. I'm not sure how, but FOX is invloved, and ACTV, and towards the bottom of the piece the reference baseball. Going with my gut on this one, but it smells of things to come.:
Java Technology Powers New Class of Interactive Television Content and Services
Apr 19, 1999 Eastern
LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 19, 1999--
Fox Sports Online, The Weather Channel and Intertainer Demonstrate
Java(TM) Technology-Based Interactive TV Programming
Sun Microsystems, Inc., Fox Sports Online, The Weather Channel and Intertainer will demonstrate breakthrough Java(TM) technology-based interactive television content and services this week at the National Association of Broadcasters' conference in Las Vegas.
These innovative demonstrations exemplify the power of the Java platform for enabling broadcasters, cable operators, and satellite TV providers to increase revenues by creating content and services that take full advantage of the underlying video, audio and graphics hardware of a digital television or set-top box. With Java technology, viewers will be able to play along with game shows, see movies on-demand, view sporting events from the camera angle of their choice, order products instantly and securely and much more -- all by simply pressing a remote control button.
"Java technology addresses the needs of manufacturers, system operators, and content providers seeking a standardized platform on which to deliver interactive content securely to consumers via cable set-top boxes, satellite receivers and digital televisions," said Curtis Sasaki, Director, Consumer & Embedded, Sun Microsystems, Inc. "We developed the Java programming language with the needs of consumer devices in mind. The power and flexibility of Java technology makes it the right platform for interactive television services in the new era of digital television."
Fox Sports Online's demonstration of last year's Major League Baseball World Series, shows how viewers may soon be able to dynamically choose the information that is shown on their television screens. In this example, sports fans are able to view the exact statistical information they want about their favorite players and teams, not just what the television network chooses to highlight.
"Sun is helping us continue our focus on the development of compelling enhanced television program that will further immerse viewers in the Fox experience," said Jordan Kurzweil, Vice President of Product Development for News America Publishing, producer of Fox Sports Online. "Java technology gives us the opportunity to develop interactive services and follow through on our goal to make them available on as many different platforms as possible."
"Major League Baseball is committed to working with key technology leaders such as Sun in developing interactive products that enhance the experience of baseball fans," said Leslie Sullivan, Vice President, Broadcasting and New Media Development.
In The Weather Channel demonstration, consumers can continuously interact with television content; while always being able to view the video feed, they can also get additional detailed weather information on local conditions and forecasts, travel information and severe weather activity.
"The Weather Channel is committed to utilizing cutting-edge technology to deliver customized, personalized content to consumers on as many appropriate platforms as possible," said Mike Carey, Senior Vice President, New Media and Local Services, The Weather Channel. "With Java technology, we will be able to more easily deliver compelling new content and services anywhere, anytime, anyplace."
From interactive shows to on-demand advertising the Java platform provides users with the ability to dynamically interact with television programming. As TV programming entices viewers to order products and services, Java technology enables broadcasters to take advantage of new revenue streams and market opportunities.
"Java technology-based applications deliver the broadcast-quality images and versatile revenue streams critical for cable operators rebuilding digital plants for broadband," said Jonathan Taplin, co-founder and co-chief executive officer of Intertainer. "Intertainer -- like cable operators -- demands the best, and our Java technology-based application provides the robust, open architecture we need to create endless opportunities for cable companies diving into the digital age."
Consumers will increasingly rely on high-quality interactive services that provide them with greater entertainment and productivity. Java technology is paving the way for the continuous improvement that viewers demand and broadcasters wish to supply. The power and flexibility of the Java platform makes it the right choice for the interactive television industry.
For more information about Java technology for digital television, please visit Sun at NAB'99 from April 19-22 at booth No. S5616 or go to sun.com. |
