Verizon’s next-gen TV service to replace FiOS with web-based set-top box: Report

By Steve Pak, | April 17, 2016

Verizon is looking for a $1 billion discount on the purchase price of the Yahoo brand.

Verizon is looking for a $1 billion discount on the purchase price of the Yahoo brand.

Verizon's next-generation TV could include an Internet-based set-top box system that replaces FiOS. Its new IP TV service will reportedly be tested in a current FiOS market sometime this year. Verizon's new TV service would probably center on a new set-top box as the wireless carrier just filed a patent application with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that includes Internet video tech provided by Intel a few years ago.

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The FCC documents show a new TV box based on Intel's OnCue technology, according to Engadget. Verizon's next-gen TV would combine cable and satellite TV services with Internet options such as Netflix.

It could also include online video programming from Verizon-owned AOL. The perfect combo of paid TV services and streaming options has been a long-term work in progress for many companies.                                  

After Verizon purchased Intel's media unit, members of the OnCue team have been working on the new project. Meanwhile, other members have been developing the company's Go90 video service.

The FCC patent application does not include a new name for Verizon's next-gen TV and does not mention the FiOS brand. However, it is important to note that the documents have been tweaked for publication. The new TV box is code-named "Mallard," according to Variety.  

Verizon might also be focusing on building a large ad network to compete with tech giants including Facebook and Google. It could add ads to a new Internet-based TV service.

The nationwide telecom plans to test the new-gen TV service with some subscribers possibly by this summer, and launch it in Q3 or Q4. However, it could still adjust the timeline.

In related news, dish-based Sling TV is dealing with the limit of streaming content to one device. It has launched a "multi-stream" service that allows subscribers to stream content to a maximum of three mobile devices.

This includes devices that are inside or outside a home. At launch the service will only include some FOX-owned networks include FOX Sports and National Geographic, and some add-ons such as HBO and A&E.  The add-ons are included in the "Extra" packages instead of bundled with the $20-per-month core offering. 

Here's a Comcast v. Verizon speed test:



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