Harmonic Upgrades XOS Media Processor

Harmonic Inc. has unveiled major enhancements to its XOS Advanced Media Processor, aimed at reducing broadcast distribution costs while improving viewing experiences across next-generation TV platforms.

The latest updates support key industry transitions, including the shift from C-Band satellite to Ku-Band and IP distribution, the rollout of ATSC 3.0 in the U.S., and the adoption of DTV+ in Brazil.

"Broadcasters around the world are navigating major transformations, from spectrum reallocations to migrations to next-generation television standards like ATSC 3.0 and DTV+," said Stéphane Cloirec, vice president of video appliances and software product management at Harmonic. "With newly enhanced capabilities, our XOS Advanced Media Processor eases these transitions, helping broadcasters modernize operations, deliver richer viewing experiences and reduce infrastructure complexity."

The XOS platform integrates playout, encoding and broadcast delivery workflows into a single solution. The new enhancements introduce expanded capabilities across several areas of broadcast delivery.

For ATSC 3.0 deployments, the processor now supports Dolby Vision HDR with look management, enabling optimisation of content across different displays while preserving creative intent. It also includes Dolby Atmos audio with features such as audio description and dialogue enhancement, improving accessibility and immersion for viewers.

To support DTV+ deployments, the platform integrates playout, encoding and gateway functionality into a single appliance, reducing infrastructure requirements and costs. It also supports advanced codecs including VVC, LCEVC and MPEG-H audio, allowing broadcasters to deliver high-quality, low-latency content while improving bandwidth efficiency.

The system also simplifies the transition to IP-based delivery by supporting both traditional satellite workflows and IP distribution protocols such as SRT and RIST, alongside CDN delivery. Hybrid satellite and IP capabilities, including support for Ku-Band downlink and packet recovery over IP, are designed to help broadcasters migrate away from legacy infrastructure without compromising reliability.

Harmonic will showcase the upgraded XOS Advanced Media Processor at the 2026 NAB Show in Las Vegas, where it will demonstrate how the platform supports evolving broadcast workflows.

www.harmonicinc.com