The multi-platform video specialists

The AUSTAR AnyWhere™ service is a first in the Asia Pacific region that lets viewers stream and download TV programs on Mac and PC.

Technical Director for Switch Media Luke Durham says this is possible because of the type Digital Rights Management (DRM) chosen.

The use of DRM means that online broadcasters have controlling rights over the content permissions given to different levels of subscribers.

Luke Durham says: "The challenge was bringing together leading edge capabilities like Adobe Flash Access 2.0 DRM, protected streaming and download access into a single you beaut service."

He says Switch Media has also been able to provide a cost effective and reliable distribution network to AUSTAR’s regional subscriber base.

Head of Product at Hostworks Adrian Britton says: "Hostworks is proud to be working with Switch Media on the AUSTAR Anywhere™service. Hostworks utilises multiple venues, multiple carriers, an arsenal of tools and a deep knowledge of the internet landscape to deliver AUSTAR and other prominent Australia based media organisations the reach and capability they demand."

Switch Media Chief Executive, Christopher Stenhouse says: "We are on an evolutionary path, going from leaning forward to watch online videos to a lean-back on demand internet TV experience."

AUSTAR Chief Executive Officer, John Porter, said, "AUSTAR AnyWhere™ is the next step in making the best entertainment available to our customers whenever and however they want it. It will give our subscribers complete flexibility and control over when they view their favourite shows, as long as they have an internet connection on their PC and Mac. A key feature of AUSTAR AnyWhere™ is that it will offer the ability to both stream and download content, meaning customers can either watch the video straight away online, or download it to their PC watch later."

The online TV portal is available only on the AUSTAR AnyWhere™ service at www.austar.com.au/onlinetv.

About AUSTAR:

AUSTAR (Australian Stock Exchange "AUN") is a leading provider of subscription television services in regional and rural Australia, with more than 740,000 customers enjoying principally satellite digital television services. Internet and mobile telephony services complete AUSTAR's product offering. AUSTAR is also a significant provider of programming in the Australian television market through its 50% owned joint venture, XYZnetworks, which owns and/or distributes Nickelodeon, Nick Jr, Discovery Channel, Channel [V], [V]Hits, MAX, Arena, The Lifestyle Channel, Lifestyle Food, LifeStyle You, CountryMusic Channel and The Weather Channel. Liberty Global, Inc., the largest international broadband cable operator in terms of Subscribers, holds an indirect controlling stake in AUSTAR.

Switch Media Contact:
Marie-Eunice Alarcon
malarcon@switchmedia.asia