Sharp is bringing TiVo’s operating system to its next line of smart televisions. The companies signed a multi-year, multi-million unit deal to launch TiVo-powered TVs.
Sharp aims to enhance audiences’ entertainment experience by offering customers more control when choosing content across live TV, news, sports, and films, according to TVTechnology. Nick Chen, Vice President of TV-system business for the Sharp Corporation, said the company selected TiVo, owned by Xperi, because it’s a “superior product.”
As more people cut ties with cable, consumers want a smart TV that meets all their streaming needs. However, not everyone is ready to fully cut the cord entirely just yet. TiVo’s system simplifies finding content across multiple platforms with fewer clicks than its competitors, and removes the need to buy a separate streaming box like a Roku or Apple TV.
Sharp had also worked with Roku to integrate its operating system into older TVs. This move marks a switch in operating systems toward TiVo.
Sharp’s TiVo-powered smart TVs will let audiences switch between streaming and linear content. The units will change Sharp’s user experience by personalizing search suggestions and directing customers to the content they want to watch.
Sharp is the second major television manufacturer to incorporate TiVo’s independent media platform since launching in 2022. Vestel, one of the leading European TV manufacturers, revealed a line of Powered by TiVo units last spring.
“Sharp’s selection of Powered by TiVo is further proof that we are meeting a crucial need for smart TV brands,” said Jon Kirchner, chief executive officer of Xperi, as quoted by TVTechnology. “The accelerated adoption of our independent media platform by consumer electronic brands, as well as by BMW in the car, lays a strong foundation for the future growth and success of our platform ecosystem.”The Powered by TiVo Sharp smart TV models will launch first in Europe next year. There’s no word yet on when and where the units will be available next. TiVo will present its independent media platform in Berlin next month at IFA, the world’s largest consumer electronics and appliances trade show.