Technicolor signed a three-year contract extension with DirecTV to provide a range of standard-definition and HD set-top boxes, and the equipment vendor separately is negotiating a nonexclusive deal to supply broadband routers for Verizon Communications' FiOS service.
To date, Paris-based Technicolor has supplied more than 48 million set-top boxes to DirecTV. Technicolor is also the satellite operator's "preferred provider of 3D services," enabling the launch of DirecTV's first 3D VOD service earlier this month along with the 24-hour dedicated n3D channel.
Technicolor, which changed its name from Thomson SA earlier this year, has shipped more than 100 million digital set-top boxes to date.
"Technicolor has consistently delivered the reliable, high-quality products we need to remain at the forefront of the industry," DirecTV chief technology officer Romulo Pontual said in a statement. "We look forward to continuing our relationship and leadership position as we enter new frontiers of innovation like 3D viewing in the home."
Under Technicolor's memorandum of understanding with Verizon, the vendor will provide broadband routers for data transmissions over in-home coaxial wiring ready for deployment in the 2011. The two companies are currently negotiating a final three-year strategic agreement.
"These broadband home routers will enhance our already unrivaled access network and enhance the overall FiOS experience," Verizon CTO Dick Lynch said in a statement. "With Technicolor, we have forged an alliance that will further support our effort to provide our customers the most robust in-home entertainment experience with products that are simple to use and exceedingly reliable."
