A new version of the DVB Common Interface platform has been launched by the DVB at IBC 2013. In a demonstration the standard setting organisation showed at SmarDTV CI Plus 1.4 Conditional Access Module and a Phillips television set, running an IPTV application developed by Accenture.
Once the module is inserted an automatic discovery process starts to find the location, any available IPTV channels, and retrieves the operator’s virtual STB application. CI Plus 1.4 can be used for the delivery of linear and VOD channels, significantly it can also access a network PVR.
Although there have been proprietary solutions, most notably Samsung’s implementation with TeliaSonera, the DVB said there had been a call for standardisation. However, the new module does require a compatible television set, so the existing product will remain in place for some time to come. European operators have launched CI Plus as an alternative to the set-top box in a number of markets.
Host middleware includes HbbTV – the format used in the DVB on-stand demo, MHP and MHEG-5.
Official publication of the specification as a DVB BlueBook is expected later this month, while the required OIPF specifications are expected for publication in early 2014.
Development of CI Plus 2.0 is underway including a new form factor.
It is expected that new television sets supporting the new specification will appear on the market around 2015/16.
