The solution targets pay-TV operators as well as broadcasters by helping them deliver improved content navigation, replay and digital video recorder (DVR) functionality to viewers through increased guide and recording accuracy.

“This new solution from Media Distillery and Gracenote was brought to market for a fundamental reason - the distinct need to deliver actual programme start times in the latest content discovery paradigms,” said Simon Adams, Chief Product Officer, Gracenote. “Media Distillery’s innovative technology naturally complements Gracenote’s best-in-class metadata, and we look forward to this collaboration enabling existing and potential customers to deliver better user experiences."

TV platforms typically broadcast linear content at the start times indicated in their EPGs. However, programmes often don’t start at the exact moment their EPGs list. If the content starts later than indicated, viewers are compelled to watch the end of the previous show or an advertising break. If earlier, then viewers can miss the start of their favourite show. The new joint solution leveraging Media Distillery’s EPG Correction technology, along with Gracenote’s Global Video Data offering, gives TV providers access to the most precise programme start and end times, providing better control over replay and catch-up viewing experiences.

“Operators around the world are eager to enhance their services, and their subscribers’ user experiences, through Gracenote and Media Distillery technology. By collaborating on this integration, we’re helping service providers to do this more efficiently, and to launch faster,” said Roland Sars, Media Distillery CEO. “In our industry, Gracenote is a household name, a widely acknowledged leader, and we’re excited about this partnership.”