Extending an HbbTV Operator App with Unicast IP Channels

Bringing IP Channels to HbbTV Smart TVs

The Freely service was launched in the UK in spring 2024. It allows UK consumers with the latest HbbTV-based Smart TVs to access linear channels over broadband IP via a familiar electronic programme guide (EPG). This delivers a seamless "channel zapping" experience regardless of whether the consumer is watching broadcast digital TV channels or broadband delivered TV channels.

Developed by YouView for Everyone TV in collaboration with Public Service Broadcasters and device manufacturers, this solution leverages the HbbTV Operator Application functionality to achieve a world-first in television technology.

Solving IP Channel Access Challenges

Previously, accessing IP channels on smart TVs meant navigating separate apps or relying on manufacturer-specific guides. The Freely solution eliminates these issues by utilising the latest HbbTV Operator Application features. Consumers benefit from an easy-to-use consistent user interface and seamless integration of live channels and on-demand content whilst the UK public service broadcasters benefit from multiple entry points into their content and prominent branding across a wide range of TV manufacturers.

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The key innovation is the introduction of the HbbTV Second Video Window . This allowed YouView to build an IP Video Player that provides seamless access to IP channels without launching separate apps, simplifying integration across Freely-compatible HbbTV devices. When the consumer selects an IP delivered channel, the television’s native software instructs the IP Video Player to start presenting the channel. The IP Video Player (built using the OpenSource JavaScript engine dash.js) is responsible for streaming the channel over the Internet, reacting to changes in network conditions to make sure the consumer never misses a second of their favourite programmes.It then makes use of the HbbTV Second Video Window to correctly display the channel, streamlining the experience by negating the need to navigate to a channel provider specific app.
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When the development of the Freely solution started there were no HbbTV devices that supported the HbbTV Second Video Window. YouView and ETV worked with manufacturers to help them implement support, with the IP Video Player serving as a reference application to help them achieve this. 

Transformational Impact on the TV Industry

The Freely solution offers key features for device manufacturers:

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• Expanded Access: Freely reaches all UK broadband homes, not just those with DTT reception.
• Enhanced Smart TV Utility: Ensures enabled Smart TVs can be used for seamless live TV viewing in IP Only homes’
• Improved Consumer Experience: IP channels integrate seamlessly with DTT channels, maintaining familiar navigation and fast switching.
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It also offers key features for content providers:
• Direct management of content operations without the need for per-manufacturer integrations
• Supports the transition from DTT to unicast IP delivery
• Secure per-channel control of who can access IP channels
• Cloud-based media source selection, ensuring consumers can always access their TV channels
• Accessibility features such as audio descriptions and subtitles that are integrated with the existing accessibility settings of the TV
• Enablement of real-time quality monitoring, allowing Content Providers to use plug-ins that support detection of network and service issues
• Supports advert funded channels with triggers that respond to stream markers to support Content Provider impression tracking and other similar features

Freely is now available on brands like Hisense, TCL, JVC, Bush, Toshiba, Panasonic, Sharp, Philips, Manhattan, and Netgem, with more models being added every month. This marks a milestone in TV evolution, delivering a richer viewing experience and paving the way for IP-delivered linear TV.

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