Cabin technology company AirFi has launched AirFunnl, a new content delivery system for inflight entertainment (IFE) that cuts file sizes by up to 45%, developed with support from AION Media Group's TITAN media suite.
The reduction in file size means airlines running AirFi's installed systems can load new content faster and at lower cost, while passengers get quicker, smoother playback on their own devices.
Smaller content files cost less to transfer to aircraft and take less time to deploy, which lowers the ongoing cost of keeping onboard entertainment libraries fresh.
AirFi says the change applies across its installed operator base without requiring hardware upgrades.
"AirFunnl gives airlines three things that hugely improve the IFE operational experience: smaller files, faster refresh, and smooth playback on personal devices," said Marco Dorjee, vice president of IFE and LEO operations at AirFi. "We've essentially halved the weight of the content files being sent to the aircraft. Airlines will see lower distribution costs and leaner operations, while passengers will appreciate fresher choices and less buffering or loading time."
The system is designed to keep playback smooth even when many passengers are streaming content at once, and automates most of the technical work involved in preparing and securing content, reducing the manual effort needed on the operator side.
"The player experience is optimised for BYOD (bring your own device) and supports fully offline playback on any device. Studio-grade DRM using standard encryption across the main mobile device operating systems safeguards rights so premium catalogues keep flowing," said Dorjee.
AirFunnl uses a single content format that works across all major device types, removing the need to prepare separate versions of the same file. AirFi says this cuts storage costs and reduces the technical overhead of managing content libraries.
AirFunnl is available now for airline and content service provider deployments through AirFi. It works within AirFi's existing IFE systems and is designed to integrate with third-party content providers.
