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. YouView’s solution eliminates these issues by integrating the latest HbbTV Operator Application features. Consumers benefit from an easy-to-use consistent user interface, and the UK public service broadcasters benefit from preserving their prominence and branding across a wide range of TV manufacturers.

The key innovation is the Second Video Window that controls IP channel presentation. This allows seamless access to channels without launching separate apps, simplifying integration across compatible HbbTV devices. When the consumer selects an IP delivered channel, the software in the television instructs the second video window to start presenting the channel. It is the responsibility of this video window to stream the video over the Internet and display it. The video window then needs to react to changes in network conditions to make sure the consumer never misses a second of their favourite programmes.

When the development of the Freely application started there were no HbbTV devices that supported the Second Video Window. YouView worked with manufacturers to implement it while they were developing the IP Video Player without compliant hardware.

Transformational Impact on the TV Industry

The IP Video Player has validated the latest HbbTV Operator Application enhancements, particularly the Second Video Window. With limited test materials in the HbbTV Test Suite, it also serves as a reference application to help manufacturers achieve compliance.

The YouView-built player offers key features for device manufacturers:

• Expanded Access: Freely reaches all UK broadband homes, not just those with DTT reception.

• Enhanced Smart TV Utility: Ensures Smart TVs are fully utilised rather than just external HDMI displays.

• Improved Consumer Experience: IP channels integrate seamlessly with DTT channels, maintaining familiar navigation and fast switching.
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The YouView-built player 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

• Real-time quality monitoring, allowing detection of network and service issues

• Supports advert funded channels with features such as impression tracking

Freely is now available on brands like Hisense, Bush, Toshiba, and Panasonic, with Sharp and Metz joining soon. 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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