Opera unveils its HbbTV solution at the IPTV World Forum 2010

Oslo, Norway – March 22, 2010

During IPTV World Forum 2010, the Opera for HbbTV solution will be shared with the world. Opera will host a meeting room (#7) at the event, where the company will reveal a full HbbTV client solution running HbbTV portals developed by European broadcasters.

With HbbTV (Hybrid broadcast broadband TV) momentum picking up throughout Europe, Opera is ready to deliver its Web-based platform that guarantees compliance while bringing flexibility and uncompromised quality to this TV industry standard. HbbTV allows TV viewers to enjoy advanced, interactive services such as video-on-demand, games, news, catch-up TV and more.

Opera for HbbTV is based on Opera Linux Devices SDK 10.30, simultaneously launched during IPTV World Forum 2010. This release leverages the latest advancements in the cross-platform Opera Web engine, which has already met the required level of Web standards to fulfill specifications such as HbbTV or OIPF (Open IPTV Forum).

“The rise of HbbTV is a testament to the role of Web technology as an essential component in next generation hybrid STB and connected TV software stacks. We envision a future where the Web is on every TV, both as an application platform and a full browser,” said Lars Boilesen, CEO, Opera Software. “Opera’s historical leadership in the IPTV and DTV markets, and its active involvement in initiatives such as HbbTV, OIPF and iPlayer, make our solution a natural and necessary ingredient for the ongoing TV revolution.”

Opera for HbbTV offers:

Four different bundles to better meet set-top box and TV manufacturer requirements: “Entry” and “Extended” bundles, plus “Full” and “Web TV” bundles, which are the results of collaboration with Opera’s key partners: Ocean Blue Software and GooMe Interactive.
With Opera for HbbTV, OEMs have full flexibility to design, tailor and deliver their own HbbTV-compliant solutions without compromising quality or time-to-market.

Opera for HbbTV will be deployed on tier-1 OEM devices hitting the European market in 2010. Get a firsthand look at Opera for HbbTV during IPTV World Forum 2010 in London. Stop by meeting room #7 during the event, from March 23-25.

To schedule a meeting with a representative from Opera Software during the IPTV World Forum, contact press10@opera.com.

About Opera Software ASA

The worldwide World Wide Web — any device, any platform, any bandwidth, absolutely anywhere in the world. Opera Software was founded in 1994, based on the idea that access to the web should be a universal right. 250 million people (and counting) use the Opera web browsers for computers, mobile phones, TVs and other connected devices. Opera also delivers tools, distribution, engagement, monetization and market insights to developers, publishers and brands around the world. We are passionate about breaking down barriers, so everyone can share in the power of the internet. Our vision of one web for all remains at the heart of what we do, because we believe that participation changes everything. Opera Software ASA is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol OPERA. ‘Opera’, ‘Opera Software’, ‘Opera Mini’ and the ‘O’ logo are trademarks of Opera Software ASA. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Learn more about Opera at www.opera.com.