A new system to integrate online and broadcast audiovisual services is promising a “coherent, consistent, and convenient user experience” across different screens.
The Service List Registry, which will be launched at the DVB World event in Brussels this week will help create an electronic programme guide that works across networks, including fixed and mobile connections.
It’s designed to allow viewers to access their favourite channels, while discovering new ones.
The registry ensures prominence of programming from traditional national and regional broadcasters, together with international, premium, and special interest services. It supports free and subscription models across conventional channels and on-demand applications.
“Users want a simple way to select services on any screen, however they receive them,” said Dr William Cooper, the co-founder and Chief Executive of the Service List Registry. “Having worked in broadband and broadcast convergence for two decades, this represents a significant step forward in the future of television and video distribution.”
The online directory is based on the open DVB-I standard. Hosted on global network infrastructure, it is freely accessible to any compatible device or application and does not track end users or their usage of services.
“The system is designed to meet the demanding operational requirements of media services with millions of users,” said Chris Young, the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of the online platform. “Registry requests can be easily integrated in client devices and applications to enable them to discover and access relevant services.”
The Service List Registry is inviting participation from partners, regulators, broadcasters, service providers, platform operators, device manufacturers and application developers before it becomes generally available.
