Project Canvas have invited an expression of interest from consumer equipment manufacturers for the development of the Canvas set-top boxes that are due to go on sale in 2011. This process starts the first major step toward getting the boxes developed and out to the market. The formal invitation points out that they are focusing on a twin tuner digital terrestrial television IP-connected digital video recorder (or DTT IP-Connected DVR), but are also welcoming submissions for Internet enabled TV's.
Amidst previous accusations of not involving industry in the supposed open-platform that is being developed, it is pleasing to hear that the process and criteria to be used to select consumer device manufacturers has been discussed with the Chairman and Executive of the DTG (Digital TV Group).
"Canvas is stepping up its engagement with industry as we get closer to releasing the final set of technical documents to the DTG this month, and launching a consumer product next year.
Bringing on board further consumer equipment manufacturers will ensure people have the widest possible choice of devices and we remain focused on supporting the industry to stimulate a competitive market. We continue to work closely with the DTG to develop common standards for Connected TV."
Richard Halton, (Director) Project Canvas
Interested parties are invited to contact Canvas by 5pm on the 25th August and the criteria to be used for selecting partners is available here.
No doubt you will get the tacky stuff that Bush/Alba produces.