The Digital Television Group has released D-Book 12.11, the latest edition of the UK’s baseline digital TV specification used across the country’s broadcast and hybrid platforms.
The update is designed to help manufacturers, broadcasters and service providers deliver Media Act 2024-compliant user experiences while sustaining innovation in a fast-shifting market.
D-Book 12.11 looks ahead to 2038 with new guidance to avert a DVB-SI date rollover issue likened to a mini Y2K, and extends signalling provisions to ensure robustness well beyond 2100. It also clarifies behaviour for logical channel numbers where no service exists and confirms that a dedicated text button is no longer required on HbbTV-supported devices.
The specification continues to track evolving cybersecurity, networking and compliance needs, backed by DTG Testing and the DTG/JV SafeShark programme. It remains the common reference for device interoperability across UK platforms including Freely, Freeview Play, Freesat, EE TV, Sky Glass, TalkTalk TV, Now, Netgem TV and YouView.
“Interoperability has never been more vital. In a rapidly fragmenting market, the D-Book remains the cornerstone that keeps the UK’s television ecosystem connected, compliant, and competitive – for everyone, everywhere,” said Richard Lindsay-Davies, CEO, DTG.
DTG is inviting member contributions for future iterations, with a focus on hybrid distribution, as the group continues to work with Government, Ofcom, industry and wider stakeholders on the future shape of UK television.
