Middleware is the software layer inside the set-top box that considerably improves the broadcast service. To enhance and save money on set-top boxes—the biggest single investment for operators—users only need MediaHighway set-top box software from NDS (News - Alert). By separating hardware and software, MediaHighway reduces the expenses of set-top boxes and lets users source set-top boxes accordingly for operation. In addition, users can simply add new features to maintain a continuous branded look across all boxes with MediaHighway.

Recently, NDS integrated its middleware, DRM and user interface with ARRIS’ media gateway. According to ARRIS, this integration will supply service providers with better choices and customization by providing them simple, whole home, triple-play media experiences.

NDS will now become the first 3rd party supplier to combine its software with the ARRIS Media Gateway (News - Alert) and Media Players. In addition to the combination of ARRIS Media Gateway and Media Player with NDS' MediaHighway middleware, VideoGuard Connect DRM and the NDS Snowflake user interface is in close collaboration with various North American cable operators.

“We are excited about the opportunity to work with NDS and expand the market reach of the ARRIS Media Gateway," said Bruce McClelland, ARRIS group president, Products and Services, in a company press release. "Working together demonstrates our companies' flexibility and commitment to using innovative approaches to deliver cable's long-awaited whole home solution.”

The combination will offer a complete structural design to improve the pace of innovation and the convergence of conventional pay-TV with Interactive IP Multi-Media Services, the company stated in a press release.

Recently, TMC’s (News - Alert) Rajani Baburajan reported that the company’s C4 CMTS and Touchstone (News - Alert) TG862S Wideband cable modems have showcased interoperability for IPv6 services on a weeklong period in the test labs of Excentis in Ghent, Belgium. The recent interoperability event, hosted by Excentis, showcased the important steps made by key vendor partners. The company’s C4 CMTS supports EuroDOCSIS 3.0 features, she reported.