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STMicroelectronics is forming a joint venture with HDIC, a company from the prestigious Shanghai Jiaotong University that develops technologies for digital TV. The joint venture, 65% owned by ST, will initially consist of about 20 people, and will be based in Shanghai, China. HDIC will contribute its existing MBT system technology of TV middleware for the Chinese market, which it has been developing for many years, as well as head-end software for TV operators.
Under the direction of CTO Dr Hongtao Liao, the joint venture will develop, market, and sell middleware software for digital TV and STB for both the Chinese and worldwide markets.
Dr Liao, who spent many years in Europe in charge of various technology developments before relocating to China, is a leading expert in digital TV software.
Although primarily focused on the Chinese DTV market, the joint venture will also develop non-Chinese versions of middleware, such as OCAP (Open Cable Access Platform) for the US market and MHP (Multimedia Home Platform) for European markets.
"This is a significant agreement both for ST and HDIC", said Jean-Yves Gomez, General Manager of ST's TV Division.
"We believe that the combination of ST's top position in digital entertainment and HDIC's leadership position in Chinese DTV technology will allow ST to expand its influential position in digital consumer and, in particular, in the booming Chinese market".
"HDIC has developed, over many years, broad expertise in the research and development of DTV technology", said Sun Jun, General Manager of HDIC.
"We are delighted to establish this cooperation with ST, a world-renowned company in the DTV industry, so that we may work together to bring new and varied solutions to the DTV market".
Subject to applicable regulatory approvals, the joint venture should start operations by the end of 2004.
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