Comcast Cable and Time Warner Cable have formed a joint venture that will manage the Reference Design Kit (RDK) software being used in set-top boxes (STBs).
RDK Management, the new joint venture, will manage the RDK licensing, community support and training, as well as code management.
As part of the new joint venture agreement, Comcast will contribute RDK components into the new entity, including the RDK code and specifications, related intellectual property rights, associated contracts and licenses which will be transitioned to the RDK Management.
The RDK is a pre-integrated software bundle, developed and licensed by Comcast to create a common framework for powering tru2way, IP or hybrid STBs and gateway devices and accelerate the deployment of video services.
RDK works with the CableLabs OCAP Reference Implementation software along with other open source components.
The new entity will provide continuity with the existing licensing program and continue to offer a licensing program similar to the existing program. In addition, the new entity will set up an expanded support program to provide technical support to RDK licensees as operators more broadly deploy the RDK solution.
Since its introduction in early 2012, more than 100 licensees have joined the RDK community, including OEMs, systems integrators, SOCs and software vendors as well as MVPDs to create a community of innovators focused on bringing rich, multi-screen TV home entertainment experiences to consumers faster.
