Cox, TiVo Sign Deployment Agreement

Cox said Thursday that it would offer select customers TiVo service in the first half of next year, by pushing a software update to compatible set-top boxes. The software would allow for standard Cox cable services like On Demand and High-Definition services, while allowing for TiVo features such as Season Pass recordings, WishList, and TiVo KidZone.

TiVo will customize its cable software for use on certain boxes. When a Cox subscriber elects to add TiVo to their service package, the functionality would be delivered as a software update, without the need for a new box or installation appointment.

"By combining Cox's marketing prowess and top-quality customer service with TiVo's superior technology and product offerings, we have unleashed a highly scalable way of delivering the best television viewing experience to its customers," TiVo CEO Tom Rogers said.

As well as offering the TiVo functionality, the agreement also will bring the DVR maker's advertising platform to those Cox customers who use the service. Like the standalone TiVos, the advertising model would be integrated into the TV watching experience.

Comcast announced a similar deal with TiVo in March of last year, which was due to be completed in the middle of this year. However, the nation's largest cable provider has not provided further guidance on the status of the partnership or when TiVo service would be available to its customers.