Channel 5 uses NetAcuity to track internet content usage

UK broadcaster Channel 5 has deployed Digital Element’s NetAcuity IP geolocation technology to manage the geographic rights of internet-based TV and film content. In addition, Channel 5 utilises Digital Element’s ISP data to determine the user’s ISP type, allowing optimisation of the viewing experience.

Channel 5 attracts over 42 million weekly viewers via its family of channels – Channel 5, 5* and 5USA – and delivers shows including Dallas, CSI and Big Brother on demand across the internet. However, due to content providers’ licensing terms, the broadcaster must be able to restrict the viewing of its TV and film content to certain countries.

By using Digital Element’s realtime IP geolocation data, Channel 5 can permit access to its content where agreements are in place, and can restrict viewing where it is prohibited. Channel 5 also uses Digital Element’s ISP-derived data to anonymously identify the viewer’s ISP, allowing optimal routing of video content across the network to enhance the viewing experience.

“Channel 5’s online reach is expanding rapidly due to the adoption of new connected devices,” commented Clive Malcher, Head of Product Development and Technology, Channel 5. “Now, more than ever, we need to be confident that we are complying with our content rights agreements across all the territories we serve, and it is of paramount importance to our business that the IP data we use to do this is accurate.

“Digital Element’s NetAcuity solution provides us with an accurate and comprehensive global database, and their solution was easy to integrate with our delivery systems. We also receive great customer service, and the other intelligence data variables – including carrier and device type recognition – allow us to access additional datasets should we need to in future.”

Charlie Johnson, Digital Element’s Digital Media Director Europe said, “online digital rights management can be complex, but IP geolocation data somplifies the process and provides the flexibility to quickly respond to constantly changing rules for content distribution, ensuring compliance while enhancing the licensed viewer’s experience.”

Channel 5 joins some of Digital Element’s other high-profile clients including Virgin Media, Videology, YouView, Disney, CNN, ESPN, Sony, CBS Interactive, ABC and Tesco’s Blinkbox.