We’ve been following the Jinni content recommendation service for nearly two years, beginning with Davis’ glowing review. Based on their 2011 goals below, they obviously intend to break free of the web browser:
Mari caught wind of their strategy earlier this year at a CableLabs winter conference, where Jinni was recognized with the Best Product Idea.
The idea is to create a better VOD experience, and Jinni says it expects to announce operator deployments of an EBIF version of the app later this year
Of course, breaking into the MSO space with Internet-sourced content is easier said than done. And perhaps why Jinni missed their 2010 target and is now emphasizing a “connected living room” in 2011. Jinni would make a mighty fine Roku or Yahoo TV widget. Even better if it could link directly into other apps, like Vudu, Netflix, or Amazon VOD, with suggestions. However, it appears their strategy is multifaceted as they haven’t entirely given up on “pay-TV operators.” Regardless of direction(s), we dig their product and intent – and wish them the best in the new year.