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Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQs
All other devices - including streaming sticks - are thick-client devices that require an operating system that supports application management. This approach often delivers a slow and poor user experience that tends to get worse as the device ages and apps are enhanced. Senza uses on-demand cloud compute to render the user experience in the cloud and stream it to the device, unlocking new user experience possibilities that improve over time and enabling unmatched web-like agility. Senza aims to reduce the hardware device to the bare minimum of essential functions, making sure it can stay in the field a lot longer without obsolescence. On the business side, unlike other platforms, there are no revenue share fees for content providers and streaming services on the Senza platform, we don't ask for any share of ad or subscription revenues from AVOD/FAST/SVOD services.
Senza uses hardware components that cost around $6 (note that costs vary depending on the region and volume). Senza provides businesses with a pay-as-you-go SaaS pricing model where you pay for what you use. There are no ad or subscription revenue shares and no additional fees for streaming video content.
Senza helps businesses reach new markets and audiences by reducing acquisition costs (the one-off cost of the Cloud Connector device) and operational costs. These combine to lower overall TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) making lower ARPU and price sensitive markets financially viable.
Senza uses common web technologies and a cloud-hosted browser to deliver any kind of experience and content to the screen. This means that making changes is as simple as updating a Web page, avoiding all of the app certification and updates common with other platforms. This enables businesses to make changes to their experience and content in a matter of seconds, increasing their agility and changing their operational approach.
Book a free session to see Senza in action and explore how Senza can unlock new possibilities for your business.
Developer FAQs
The Senza platform runs standard web apps in a cloud browser. Developers should be familiar with the process of developing modern web apps using JavaScript, HTML and CSS.
You need a web app that is designed to run on a TV with remote control interaction, such as one designed for a Smart TV. To use the Cloud Connector, you'll need a standard Wi-Fi network and either a TV with an open HDMI port or an HDMI capture device.
You can create a developer account on the Senza website, and order Cloud Connector devices from the Senza Console. Our developer toolkit includes everything you need to get started porting your app to the Senza platform, including sample code, tutorials and video guides.
The Senza client library can be used to switch between playing video in the web app and streaming video directly to the cloud connector device. You can also use the library to perform device-based user authentication, handle streaming protected content to the device, and send push notifications to devices.
It varies depending on the nature of the app but we've had apps running on Senza within hours. On average, for a typical Smart TV app, we recommend allowing a few weeks to have your app fully migrated and tested.
No. Senza has been designed to enable our customers to launch quickly and without adding additional costs by requiring changes to existing back-end systems. All of the apps you run on the Senza platform will use the same back-office systems and streaming infrastructure as all of your other apps on other platforms.
Cloud Connector FAQs
Senza is different to every platform and device you're used to. The Cloud Connector doesn't run any apps directly on the device. With Senza, your app runs in a browser in the cloud, with the interface streamed to the Cloud Connector as a low latency video stream. This approach - which no longer relies on the device's hardware capabilities to render the user interface - opens up the limitless freedom and processing power of the cloud.
Yes. The device has been designed to run on the 500mA power provided by typical TV USB sockets.
Yes, we plan to allow operators, device manufacturers, and content owners to integrate our software and hardware designs into their products. In 2025 we will announce a programme which will make these designs available under a free license.
The reference design is designed to operate for 10 years.
Initial setup and configuration - like connecting to the preferred Wi-Fi network - is all handled using an Android or iOS app and takes a minute or two.
Absolutely! Get in touch or sign up for our Developer Programme to start using Senza today.
Yes, as long as the remote supports Bluetooth and has the standard set of function buttons required.
No. Senza uses the same DASH streams as other streaming devices.