Thales and Netskrt collaborate to enable streaming video services onboard

Thales has announced a collaboration Netskrt Systems, the only provider of edge Content Delivery Networks (eCDNs) for aircraft, with the goal of bringing passengers full access to streaming video services while inflight.

When hosted on Thales’ inflight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) system, Netskrt’s eCDN will provide content caching for a high-quality streaming experience of direct-to-consumer native content applications to seatback screens and passengers’ personal devices. The on-demand content will be stored onboard and regularly uploaded on the ground and in the air, providing access to the latest TV and movie titles.

Passengers will be able to instantly stream their chosen entertainment content using their personal video streaming subscriptions, such as Netflix. The partners say that no matter how many people are watching the same content, each title only streams once to the onboard cache. This solution optimises satellite connectivity consumption to ensure that sufficient bandwidth is available for other connected inflight services.

“We’re excited to work with Netskrt to deliver a new era of inflight entertainment, giving passengers an ‘at home viewing experience’. Our collaboration will create opportunities for new direct-to-consumer video streaming partner integrations to provide a high-quality passenger experience,” said Kurt Weidemeyer, VP of product delivery digital, Thales InFlyt Experience.

Netskrt co-founder, president and CEO, Sig Luft, added: “People are increasingly accessing direct-to-consumer video streaming services for their news and entertainment content, and expect access to these services wherever they go. Airlines are increasingly seeking solutions that provide passengers access to their favourite video streaming service onboard.”