Nokia flies high with Sky CDN deal win

Nokia has announced Sky has deployed its Velocix Content Delivery Network to underpin its expansion of on-demand premium video offering.

Deployment of the Nokia Velocix CDN allows Sky to temporarily cache content closer to customers in localized cloud data centres to reduce transportation costs and improve the customer experience. While Sky would still be considered one of the leading content providers in the UK, it has been facing tough competition from the likes of BT and Netflix.

While the initial implementation of the technology for its broadband and satellite services, the pair are now working to expand the Velocix solution to also support Sky Go and Now TV services for live TV and video on demand. The ability to dictate where content is cached will in theory improve the experience for increasing demanding customers, at a time where mobile, on-demand video is growing fast.

“Using Nokia’s Velocix CDN, we have greater traffic visibility in the network, allowing us to regain control of managing the network capacity,” said Sky’s UK CTO Mohamed Hammady. “Deploying the solution deep in the network also ensures we can manage delivery more effectively to improve performance and the customer experience. The introduction of Velocix CDN to support growth of our video on demand services was seamless.”

“The Sky project represents a milestone for Nokia as it’s the first deployment for a nationwide broadcaster and builds on Nokia’s number one position in the service provider CDN market,” said Paul Larbey, Head of Nokia’s IP Video business.

“It shows that our Velocix CDN – which delivers high-quality programming – aligns with the needs of broadcasters and content providers in addition to those of IPTV and cable operators. Our innovative IP video portfolio will help Sky manage traffic more cost-effectively and efficiently.”