Richard Humphreys |
This article was originally published in the Summer 2018 issue of The Record.
Global in-flight entertainment (IFE) provider AirFi serves over 55 airlines operating across the world, delivering solutions that aim to delight passengers during their flight.
Recognising that traditional IFE solutions are costly to install, expensive to maintain, incur heavy additional fuel burn and quickly become out of date, the company sought an alternative solution that would offer its airline customers all of the benefits of a state-of-the-art IFE system, but without the cost and complexity of installing hardware.
Microsoft partner StreamingBuzz stepped up to the mark. Its BuzzOff solution, which has been designed to meet all the security requirements without needing an online connection in-flight for authentication, enables airline passengers to stream offline digital rights management (DRM) protected content to their own mobile, tablet or laptop – all without the need to download an app.
Now approved by five major Hollywood studios – including Warner Bros, Disney and Paramount Pictures – the technology enables users to access the latest Blockbuster movies and hit TV shows. What’s more, by leveraging machine learning, it can make suggestions based on user preferences, delivering a more personalised user experience.
“Blockbuster movies still command one of the highest rates of usage and of course are essential for airlines offering longer flights,” said Job Heimerikx, CEO at AirFi. “Being able to access the enormous movie and TV show catalogues from the biggest distributors is a game-changer.”
“Our research shows that browser-based systems create up to 10x more passenger engagement than app-based streaming systems,” said Jon Vink, CEO at StreamingBuzz. “We are delighted that AirFi is using our technology and are happy to provide the full back-office support required to enable passengers to access the biggest and best content selection from leading worldwide distributors.”
AirFi serves airlines operating across an increasingly broad range of countries, languages and cultures. “Having the ability to access global Hollywood content is a crucial piece of the jigsaw to create the best in-flight entertainment experience for all of our passengers,” Heimerikx concludes.