Disney property transitions from satellite to IP distribution and upgrades to HD

LONDON (14 September 2024) Encompass Digital Media, a global managed service provider for TV networks, broadcasters, sports leagues and OTT platforms, and BabyTV announce the pay-tv channel’s adoption of Altitude Connect, a fully managed IP alternative to traditional satellite, to distribute its new HD service. Now, BabyTV HD is securely delivered via the public internet to affiliates in EMEA and APAC, spanning from Portugal to Lithuania and the Seychelles to Australia. 

“This transition marks a major milestone in our commitment to delivering high-quality content with greater cost efficiency and accessibility for our viewers,” states Anita Wegrzyn, Head of Operations and Distribution at BabyTV. “With Altitude Connect, BabyTV offers a robust and reliable service – reaching global audiences has never been easier, especially without the constraints of traditional satellite footprints.”

Utilizing Altitude Connect, BabyTV launched its HD service without taking on additional satellite capacity. Transitioning away from satellite is complex; however, Encompass’ SmartSwitch provides an intelligent route to IP, with a managed migration while also mitigating steep dual illumination fees.

Encompass delivers BabyTV HD programming via geographically diverse Altitude Media Cloud regions, including locations in London and Frankfurt, offering high availability and redundancy. Connect’s unique pay-as-you-use model further allows BabyTV HD to onboard affiliates at a fraction of the transponder cost and provides ongoing flexibility as the network continues to grow.

“We are delighted to add BabyTV to our expanding portfolio of Altitude Connect customers who are taking advantage of cost savings and commercial flexibility available via this cloud product,” added Marc Bruce, Encompass CEO. “With in-built, end-to-end monitoring, Encompass and BabyTV can view the full extent of their affiliate and partner networks for the first time.”