Sign in Subscribe
Software industry

Cable and Wireless Communications Chooses Network Computer's Middleware Over Microsoft's Windows CE

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Cable and Wireless Communications (C and WC) PLC has made a significant decision in choosing Network Computer Inc's software platform over Microsoft Corp's Windows CE operating system for its advanced digital set-top boxes in the UK. This move is a strategic advantage for C and WC, allowing them to avoid complex, proprietary technology advocated by Microsoft. Network Computer, jointly owned by Oracle and Netscape, will provide the "middleware" that enables the display of interactive programs on C and WC's set-top boxes. Oracle holds the majority stake in Network Computer.

Key Takeaways:

  • C and WC has chosen Network Computer's middleware over Microsoft's Windows CE for its set-top boxes in the UK, citing the need to avoid proprietary technology.
  • Network Computer, jointly owned by Oracle and Netscape, will provide the middleware that enables interactive programs on C and WC's set-top boxes.
  • C and WC plans to use an operating system provided by PowerTV, Inc. for its digital set-top boxes.
  • Microsoft has invested $1 billion in Comcast Corp. and has signed deals with Tele-Communications, Inc., and General Instrument Corp., but still has a significant lead in the market.
  • The cable TV industry is diversifying operating systems and software to avoid dominance by a single company.
  • Network Computer sees this decision as a validation of its technology and believes it will lead to more deals in the US.

Statistics:

  • C and WC has committed to using Network Computer's middleware on its set-top boxes in the UK.
  • Microsoft has invested $1 billion in Comcast Corp.
  • Tele-Communications, Inc., plans to deploy 5 million Windows CE-based set-top boxes.
  • C and WC has ordered 7 million set-top boxes from General Instrument Corp.
  • Microsoft has a significant lead in the market, with deals already signed with Tele-Communications, Inc., and General Instrument Corp.

Sources:

  • “Network Computer Inc.'s middleware chosen by Cable and Wireless Communications plc in UK.” (No publication date given)
  • “Microsoft Corp. signs deal with Tele-Communications, Inc.” (June 16, 1997)
  • “TeleCommunications, Inc. to deploy 5 million Windows CE-based set-top boxes.” (Jan. 19, 1997)
  • “TCI's deal with Sun Microsystems, Inc. and Oracle Corp.” (Jan. 12)
  • “Cable Television Laboratories, Inc. does not choose any one vendor for interoperable set-top boxes.” (Nov. 10, 1997)
  • “TCI and General Instrument Corp. deal.” (Dec. 22, 1997)
  • “Cable & Wireless Communications plc and Network Computer Inc. agreement.” (No publication date given)

Read more