• Viacom linear TV channels to be integrated into the German auto industry
  • First deal of its kind set to begin the next-generation of in-car entertainment
  • German audiences to access unique in-car entertainment experiences

viacom standup3000

Standup 3000: coming to a car near you

Source: Viacom

US media company Viacom has partnered with Japanese software provider Access to bring TV entertainment including MTV, Comedy Central and Nickelodeon to the car for its German audiences.

The partnership will see Access acquire the entertainment rights to make Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) linear channels available in German-language for the integration into cars made by German manufacturers.

The in-car software Twine4Car by Access will simulcast the linear TV networks that VIMN makes available free-to-air in Germany, featuring the same content and advertising.

VIMN president and managing director of Southern and Western Europe, Middle East and Africa Raffaele Annecchino said: “Viacom believes in-car entertainment is an exciting new frontier for the video industries, with the next generation of mobile network technology ushering in a new era of connected vehicles and immersive entertainment experiences on-the-go.

“This deal is the first of its kind for Viacom and I’m really excited by its potential to showcase our ability to offer entertainment experiences that can deeply engage passengers of all ages.”

Twine4Car is a flexible multimedia content service for automotive manufacturers that includes software components, video and audio content rights and consulting expertise.

It was launched at CES 2019 in Las Vegas and has been developed to bridge the gap between the automotive and content industries and increase the safety, comfort and flexibility of content consumption for drivers and passengers in the unique in-car environment.

Access Europe chief executive Neal Foster said: “The automotive industry faces unprecedented opportunities and challenges. By bringing content and brands from Viacom to Twine4Car we are enabling car manufacturers to provide unique entertainment experiences that will deepen their relationships with car users.

“I’m excited to unite the media and automotive industries by working with Viacom International Media Networks GSA and look forward to this redefining the next generation of compelling in-car services for both drivers and passengers.”

In a statement, Access said it aim is to enable automakers to protect their brands while evolving vehicles into fully personalised connected media hubs and provide road users with an additional layer of ease and convenience.

The solution combines both globally and locally popular content with key new features including a refreshed, expandable human-machine and user interface with an aggregated in-car Electronic Program Guide (EPG) for both Android and Linux.

Twine4Car supports journey related content and ‘car retail’ services such as fuel and parking payments. The solution enables carmakers and suppliers to provide advanced content experiences tailor-made for all car passengers, whatever the circumstances of their journey to ensure the highest level of usability.

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