HuronTel, a long-time video provider in Ontario, Canada, has upgraded its video solution to MG-TV from Innovative Systems.
General Manager Ryan McClinchey says the MG-TV Platform has allowed HuronTel to simplify their video operation, saying, “It’s great to have one company to work with to roll out the whole video ecosystem.” HuronTel has simplified its operations by utilizing Innovative Systems for VOD storage, encryption, and middleware, rather than relying on different vendors for each component.
HuronTel’s expansion of its fiber infrastructure has led to an increase in the number of video subscribers. HuronTel, like many rural video providers, caters to a large number of retired customers who prefer a traditional viewing experience. This is facilitated by legacy Set-Top Boxes (STBs) and full-sized remote controls. McClinchey mentions that before switching to MG-TV, HuronTel relied on in-home DVRs. Now, with the cloud-based DVR, there are fewer maintenance issues, setting the stage for their migration to streaming.
Innovative’s middleware supports a wide range of legacy STBs from various vendors. McClinchey states that this was a significant advantage in choosing MG-TV, along with the software’s capability to link IPTV and streaming devices to each individual account.
HuronTel serves approximately 11,000 customers, including 4,000 video customers, across multiple communities where competitors offer bundled services that include broadband, video, and voice. McClinchey indicated that competing without a diverse range of services would make achieving success very challenging.
Different Rules of the Game in Canada
Canadian video service providers create a more consumer-friendly environment, offering customers greater freedom and flexibility. HuronTel offers a service called Pick N Pay, allowing customers to select either 5 or 10 channels from a broad range of popular options, or pay per channel for their preferred choices. You can follow this link to learn more about this interesting offer. When asked about the flexible “skinny bundle” option and its effect on HuronTel’s traditional packages, which are similar to those offered in the US, McClinchey explained that many customers start with a standard package. However, over time, they often switch to a la carte options if they realize they are not watching many of the channels included in the standard offerings.
