We’ve covered the Sezmi television solution for some time. But, alas, they’ll now be joining the likes of Akimbo, ZillionTV, and Moviebeam in the deadpool. From Sezmi’s recent customer outreach:
We regret to inform you that Sezmi is discontinuing its consumer service. As of Monday, September 26, 2011, you will no longer be able to view or record broadcast TV programming through your Sezmi System. However, you will still be able to view movies and shows you have already saved to your Sezmi media recorder. Sezmi has changed its business focus to providing our product and technology platform to service providers, internationally and in the U.S., who are interested in providing broadband video services to their customers. As a result, we are no longer supporting our direct-to-consumer service.
It’s unfortunate, as Sezmi was pushing a “one box” comprised of both Internet, cable without the cable, and broadcast content (along with user profiles!), long before TiVo landed on that marketing approach. But the writing was on the wall and we saw this coming. From my contribution to a TiVo Community discussion on the merits of Sezmi a few months back:
Sezmi shot themselves in the foot with their original plan to license broadcast spectrum and launch only in those select markets (LA was first). They blew a lot of cash on that failed approach and have since adjusted. But I wouldn’t be surprised if they don’t survive beyond 2011. A bummer really, because the market needs more competition not less. But if TiVo can’t make it in retail, no one can.
From the get go, both Mari and I were somewhat skeptical of their grand initial approach and possibility of success given the landscape. Mari’s thoughts back in 2008:
I love the idea of Sezmi but I simply can’t imagine how the enterprise will succeed. These guys have been really innovative, and deserve huge kudos for trying something new. I wish the obstacles in front of them weren’t quite so daunting.
Sezmi hopes to work deals with service providers and carry on. And perhaps they will. But I suspect they’re just delaying the inevitable. My advice? Sell the assets, if possible, and move on to the next challenge.
(via EngadgetHD)