NHK World consolidates its EPG services in Europe

NHK World, the global channel from Japan’s national broadcaster has acquired EPG services for its European audience. The services have been contracted following a deal between EBS and distributer Japan International Broadcasting Inc.

The Japanese channel is now providing scheduling information and EPG metadata to the PCCW, Sky UK, Freesat, Yes, OSN, and DSmart platforms via its scheduling software Pawa. In addition, EBS is sending an EPG feed to satellite operator SES, in what is a first for the service. SES is uplinking the EPG data via an event information table (EIT) stream direct to its satellite, which is then distributed across Europe to viewers’ set-top boxes.

Yoshihiko Shimizu, CEO, Japan International Broadcasting Inc, said: “Elegant delivery of EPG information is a key element to improving our channel awareness around the world. We are delighted to work with EBS in providing this critical service.”

The deal with Japan International Broadcasting shows, said EBS, that Pawa can be used to meet any workflow requirements. (Rapid TV News)