DVB-I gains traction as broadcasters rethink TV distribution
This DVB article discusses DVB-I as a standards-based solution for delivering linear and on-demand television over the internet, emphasizing its potential for broadcasters to maintain universal access and prominence in the streaming era. It explores DVB-I's use cases, including next-generation free-to-air experiences and its role in discussions about sunsetting DTT platforms in various European markets. The article also highlights regulatory considerations for DVB-I implementation and the importance of vendor support for its adoption.
Key Takeaways
- Saorview is running a second DVB-I proof of concept in Ireland as it examines a hybrid broadcast-broadband platform.
- Frank Heineberg of RTL Technology says DVB-I offers broadcasters “high technical reach for linear IP streams on all TV sets” using an open standard.
- Peter MacAvock says internet-centric DVB-I could help with sunsetting extensive DTT-only platforms by enabling broadcast-broadband switching.
- Germany is discussing a central DVB-I service list moderated by the media regulator, with broadcasters controlling the list.
- ZEASN says whaleOS could support blended EPGs that combine DVB signals, FAST and vMVPD offers; TiVo says it is monitoring DVB-I and would support participation when market need is clear.
Why It Matters
DVB-I is moving from standards work into concrete market tests, especially where broadcasters want to preserve reach, channel numbering and prominence as viewing shifts to IP. The article shows the same framework being discussed for Ireland, Germany, Italy and the UK, but with different regulatory and platform models, from Saorview’s PoC to Freely’s HbbTV OpApp approach. The key signal to watch is whether any market lands on a regulated central service list, since that would define who gets included and under what licence terms.
Read full article at dvb.org