LAS VEGAS--Nortel Networks and Minerva Networks here announced the joint development and release of an applications interface that integrates real-time IPTV services with Minerva's iTVManager middleware via Nortel's IP multimedia subsystem architecture. The SIP-based API gives developers and service providers the tools to create applications such as voice mail access and callback functionality over the TV, the vendors said.

The robust API enables key communications features such as click-to-call, network address book, buddy lists, mobile-to-TV text and picture messaging and the ability to configure communications services directly through the set-top box. The Minerva iTVManager platform has been enhanced to leverage Nortel's SIP solutions, the companies said.

"Minerva has over 65 customers around the world who are anxious to introduce advanced communications services with their IPTV offerings. The joint development of our new open API makes this a possibility," explained Matt Cuson, vice president of marketing at Minerva Networks.

"Nortel's collaboration with Minerva is a critical part of our efforts to deliver IPTV services over a standards-based IMS infrastructure," added Walt Megura, general manager, broadband networks at Nortel.