BT Sport confirms Ericsson playout deal for three new channels

Ericsson will be responsible for the playout of BT Sport Europe, free-to-air service BT Sport Showcase, and BT Sport UHD, which will be the first ultra high definition channel to launch in the UK.

As part of the deal, BT Sport has also extended Ericsson’s existing six-year contract to playout BT Sport 1 and 2 by an additional three years. This contract includes playout and media management services and access services for both channels.

Ericsson will also help to deliver BT Sport’s new BT Sport Extra red button service, which will enable viewers to choose between eight UEFA games broadcast live simultaneously - including UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League games.

BT Sport and BT TV chief operating officer Jamie Hindhaugh: “BT Sport’s UEFA Champions League coverage sets out to bring viewers the best ever experience of football’s leading club competition.

“Our 4K coverage of the UEFA Champions League alongside other competitions will bring a truly cinematic experience into fans’ living rooms.”

Last week, Broadcast reported that Ericsson was close to agreeing a deal to move its Red Bee playout operation to Here East, where BT Sport is based.

Ericsson head of broadcast and media services Thorsten Sauer added: “We are very proud that BT has selected Ericsson to help launch a new range of high-profile TV services, including the UK’s first UHDTV channel.

“BT Sport has made a significant commitment to its sport broadcasting portfolio, and we are delighted that Ericsson will play an integral role in its future success.

“This partnership is a significant win for our business and really underlines our role as a trusted partner to some of the world’s leading broadcasters and sports rights holders. We will continue to work hard to deliver high-quality, innovative services.”