Smart Video On-Demand System From Predictive Networks To Bring Customized VOD Libraries to Satellite Viewers

A new recommendation-based video on-demand system designed specifically for direct-broadcast satellite subscribers with PVR set-top boxes is being introduced by Predictive Networks of Cambridge, MA.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Shari Driscoll   
617-575-4802
sdriscoll@predictivenetworks.com

SMART VIDEO ON-DEMAND SYSTEM FROM PREDICTIVE NETWORKS TO BRING CUSTOMIZED VOD LIBRARIES TO SATELLITE VIEWERS

Monterey, Calif., April 23, 2002 -- A new recommendation-based video on-demand (VOD) system designed specifically for direct-broadcast satellite subscribers with personal video recorder (PVR) set-top boxes is being introduced by Predictive Networks of Cambridge, Mass.

At the Carmel Groups Satellite Entertainment 2002 conference opening here on April 24, the company will preview SmartVOD, designed to bring a personalized VOD entertainment experience to satellite subscribers, a market previously constrained by the limited storage capacity of PVRs. SmartVOD automatically detects household interests without requiring viewer interaction or personal information, selecting relevant movies based on each individuals channel surfing behavior and delivering customized VOD libraries to PVRs, all while using content delivery technology already in place. The system also incorporates Predictive Networks SmartNavigator intelligent guide technology to offer a simple user interface to help viewers find movie titles and other
on-demand content far more easily than time-and channel-based TV listings.

With SmartVOD, satellite operators can offer highly relevant on-demand movie line-ups to their viewers, leverage PPV and PVR technology investments, and share in the VOD revenue opportunity, a market estimated by the Carmel Group to top $1.5 billion by 2008.

"By combining our next generation profiling, library optimization, and navigation technologies, were creating the ultimate VOD system for satellite providers and one that consumers will love because it selects the most interesting movies without a lot of time-consuming programming," said Devin Hosea, Predictive Networks CEO. With SmartVOD, the average family of four with kids can go off to work and school and come home to find only the relevant titles for each household member recorded on their PVR and presented in a way that takes them right to what theyre looking for," Hosea said.

Predictive Networks SmartNavigator audience guidance technology breaks out of the standard channel or category grid, ranking and ordering VOD line-ups according to household preferences. Simple interfaces, such as SmartPicks, display program recommendations in order of their relevance to the viewer. SmartChannel makes it possible to surf through recommended programs using the remote's up and down channel buttons. SmartGrid is an interactive feature that integrates with and sorts existing channel listing guides according to the viewers preferences.

Predictive Networks plans to offer SmartVOD to operators directly, and through integration with set-top box providers and middleware platforms. To contact Predictive Networks or schedule an appointment, please e-mail: info@predictivenetworks.com. The company will also demonstrate the technology at NCTA's Cable 2002, Booth # 3531,
May 6-8 in New Orleans.

About Predictive Networks
Predictive Networks offers behavior-based profiling and targeting technologies that customize and simplify the television experience for the viewer, aggregate audiences for advertisers and programmers, and streamline interactive campaign management for operators. Cable and satellite system operators, in partnership with middleware providers, set-top box manufacturers, and interactive application developers, license the companys solutions, which include targeted advertising management systems, recommendation-based navigation tools, personal video on-demand recording systems, behavioral profiling technology, and related services. Privately held and founded in 1999, the company is based in Cambridge, Mass. For more information, please call 617-575-4700 or visit our web site at www.predictivenetworks.com.

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