The telecom platform deployment space is continuing to expand as next-generation technologies are rapidly being introduced to the market. Recently, Videotron, a Canadian telecommunications operator, decided to begin utilizing Cisco's (News - Alert) HD set-top box platform in order to power its robust digital TV service.

Videotron has selected the Cisco Explorer 8642 HD-DVR and 4642 HD set-top boxes to offer customers a much higher quality entertainment experience. And its new offering, illico TV New Generation, encompasses highly advanced video services and much simpler and quicker navigation functionality.

"The latest generation of Cisco Explorer set-top boxes supports the Tru2way open standard allowing us to offer a tailored customer experience to a broader audience. The Cisco Explorer set-top boxes help us to differentiate our innovative service and applications while retaining our market leadership," said Pierre Roy, vice president, Engineering, Research and Development of Videotron (News - Alert) in a statement.

With this new telecom platform deployment, illico TV users will be able to view entertainment and information contained within certain programs like music, weather, local information, voting and polling, with only a click of their remotes. Customers can also access the platform’s Digital Video Recorder (DVR), Video-on-Demand, an electronic program guide, pay-per-view, caller ID, and weather, as well as pick customizable entertainment packages.

Additionally, the Cisco 8642 HD-DVR is based upon Videotron's existing Cisco-powered cable head-end foundation and the DOCSIS network, which will provide consumers with instant availability to a much wider array of video.

"Videotron is a leader in bringing the capabilities and convenience of HD and DVR services to Canada, and Cisco is proud to help further the company's vision. With illico TV New Generation, Videotron can continue to advance its video strategy by utilizing its head-end and DOCSIS fiber optic networks combined with Cisco's set-top technology to deliver best-in-class video entertainment experiences on air, online, on demand," Mark Kummer, vice president, Service Provider Operations, Cisco Canada concluded.