Wellington, June 22 NZPA - TelstraClear has contracted Digisoft and Verimatrix to provide a set-top box that will ultimately be capable of delivering internet services on its cable television screens.

Digisoft is an internet protocol television (IPTV) solutions provider based in Ireland and Veromatrix is a content security specialist.

The companies will develop a hybrid high definition digital video broadcasting-cable (HD DVB-C) set-top box for the New Zealand market. It will have both personal video recorder and IPTV services but TelstraClear is not yet detailing what they will be.

"The result will take our customers beyond present one-way broadcast methods to a solution that will allow us to move towards the new modes of delivering content and services that add value to our customers and enhance their experience," said Steve Jackson, head of consumer markets for TelstraClear.

The product is initially expected to be similar the SkyTV's MySky product.

Digisoft was chosen because its technology is Java-based, which provides flexibility in developing broadband products.

The partners have technology that allows customers to view high definition programmes, record programmes to a hard drive, pause and rewind television and access content delivered on the internet.

Possible services include being able to hold video calls on television screens, sending texts and emails on television screens and locating GPS-equipped cellphones on maps on the television.

TelstraClear is still deciding what services its set-top box will offer and expects to make a further announcement in September.

TelstraClear offers voice, internet and digital TV services for residential customers in Wellington, Christchurch and Kapiti.

It is wholly owned by Telstra Corporation Ltd of Australia.