Encompass and Zixi work with broadcaster on digital transformation

New Broadcasting House BBC

The BBC World Service has moved to IP distribution from satellite. 

The full transition has been completed in Europe, with it to now be rolled out across the Americas, Pacific, Africa, and Asia. The World Service has worked with Encompass Digital Media and Zixi to make this move, using Encompass’ Altitude Connect platform, integrating Zixi’s IP delivery technology with Altitude Media Cloud, Encompass’ global broadcast cloud platform. 

By moving to IP, the BBC hopes to expand accessibility by delivering content more efficiently across a range of digital and broadcast platforms; enhance flexibility and security, ensuring uninterrupted service in regions where satellite coverage may be unreliable or cost-prohibitive; and support sustainability and cost reduction, moving away from legacy satellite technology to a more scalable and adaptable digital framework. IP also allows for targeted content delivery. 

The project has involved emigrating hundreds of radio and TV partners globally from satellite to IP delivery, transitioning from bespoke receiver hardware to commodity, software-based solutions, and integrating broadcast schedules, using the SCTE 224, to deliver precise and seamless channel switching across the global platform.

Nigel Fry, director of distribution, international services, BBC News, said: “Transitioning BBC World Service distribution to IP represents a major milestone in our commitment to modernising how we serve markets worldwide. This shift provides another level of flexibility for our services while aligning with our long-term strategy to adapt to the evolving media landscape. With the support of Encompass and Zixi, we are ensuring that BBC World Service continues to deliver trusted news and information to audiences, wherever they are, with greater reach and security than ever before.”

Marc Bruce, CEO of Encompass Digital Media, said: “We are proud to partner with the BBC and Zixi to bring a new era of IP-based content distribution to BBC World Service. This project is a significant step forward in modernizing broadcast infrastructure, allowing for greater flexibility, cost efficiency, and enhanced security. By moving away from satellite, we are enabling the BBC to reach its global audience with unmatched flexibility and precision.”

Marc Aldrich, CEO of Zixi, added: “Zixi is thrilled to collaborate with the BBC and Encompass to deliver this groundbreaking transition to IP-based distribution. Our technology ensures the highest level of reliability, security, and scalability, allowing the BBC World Service to expand its reach and maintain its reputation for excellence in global broadcasting. This project is a testament to the future of content delivery, where IP distribution becomes the gold standard for efficiency and innovation.”