SMiT, a global provider of operation platform techniques for secure distribution of paid content, recently announced the joint launch of a new Merged Television System with IQiYi and TCL. China-based IQiYi is a large online video operator and TCL is a recognized smart television manufacturer. Together the three companies have designed a solution with integrated high-end internet videos, interactive watching experience and live high-definition cable programs. The system will be showcased at the 22nd China Content Broadcasting Network Exhibition to be held from March 20-22, 2014 and will be available for deployment soon.

Hongyu Shuai, president of SMiT, said, "Our accumulated experience in the broadcasting and television industry enables us to manage the integration of internet video services into high-definition live cable programs, which improves users' images of smart digital lives. Besides, the system is open-ended, which means it is applicable for all kinds of smart television terminals and set-top boxes."

The Merged Television System integrates the cloud platform and internet video content services into a smart terminal. SMiT provides custom designed conditional access modules (CAMs) which enable the delivery of premium content to digital TVs without set-top-box (STB) as well as cloud-based OTT internet video streaming. IQiYi enables a high number of HD and on-demand videos with licensed copyrights. TCL offers its full-featured smart terminal products suite and channel support.

Shuai went on to say, "We hope to establish cooperation with more enterprises to accelerate the interaction of traditional cable television and newly developing internet television. To adapt to the development, pattern and critical thinking of the internet industry, we set up Beijing Convergence (News - Alert) Video Technology Co., Ltd. with the hope of achieving a faster and more concentrated promotion of the system."

With a small USB-sized merged television-mate, the smallest HD digital television box, the users only need to plug the device into the USB port of a smart television or set-top box to launch the application. The merged cloud platform’s services consist of smart Electronic Programme Guide (EPG), VOD, content customization, cable TV and internet video interactions, among others. Some of the key benefits of the system include low upfront investment, reduced bandwidth costs, increased revenue and risk management.