Boxee ‘pleased’ with FCC’s new cable encryption rules

Late last week, the FCC enacted new rules that allow cable companies to encrypt basic cable for the first time ever. Turns out the new rules aren’t scaring prominent set-top box maker Boxee, which was glad some strings were attached.

Boxee CEO Avner Ronen (pictured, center) said in a blog post Sunday that he was “pleased” that many recommendations made jointly by Boxee and Comcast were adopted. These recommendations include that companies like Boxee can access basic channels accessible via IP, so third-party compatibility shouldn’t be a problem.

“The rulemaking ensures startups like Boxee can continue to invest in building products to innovate in the set-top box/connected TV space,” Ronen wrote. “We are also excited about the new opportunity to work with cable companies to provide next-generation experiences that will delight customers and push the industry forward.”

Boxee’s talks with the FCC were the first time the company fought to help shape public policy surrounding technology. “While initially doubtful our voice would be heard and we would be able to make a difference, we were pleasantly surprised to be proven wrong,” Ronen said.

New York City-based Boxee was founded in 2007 and has raised $26.5 million from investors including Union Square Ventures, General Catalyst Partners, SoftBank Capital, Pitango Venture Capital, Spark Capital.

Avner Ronen photo by Sean Ludwig/VentureBeat