HbbTV issues online video streaming RfP
January 17, 2017
The HbbTV Association, a global initiative dedicated to providing an open standard for the delivery of broadcast and broadband services through connected TVs and set-top boxes, has issued a Request for Proposals (RfP) for the creation of a reference application for online streaming of DRM-protected video to HbbTV televisions and set-top boxes.
HbbTV aims to make it easier for broadcasters and content providers to monetise content in the HbbTV ecosystem by providing a known working application with content that they can use as a model for their own services. The HbbTV Association has approached DRM suppliers for support on this project, as it does not include specific DRM systems in its specifications.
The installed base of HbbTV TVs and STBs now reaches 46 million, of which a large majority support DASH and DRM. The commissioned reference application will work on as much of this installed base as possible, as well as on HbbTV 2 products entering the market in 2017.
“Many broadcasters and content providers are already using HbbTV applications to deliver video to consumers,” noted Klaus Illgner, chairman of the HbbTV Association. “This exciting initiative will accelerate the growth of the HbbTV ecosystem, with new applications, new broadcasters and new content providers.”