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Latest release of DVB-I specification supports evolving market needs while ensuring interoperability

11.07.2025

DVB has published a new version of its DVB-I specification, DVB BlueBook A177r7, which defines the framework for discovering and delivering television services over broadband and broadcast networks. This update comes at a time of growing global interest in DVB-I, with numerous trials and pilots under way as the industry explores new ways to deliver linear television and on-demand libraries to internet-connected devices and enable hybrid viewing experiences.

Spec updates

The latest version of the specification introduces several important enhancements, including:

  • Support for signalling applications that can gain, renew, or withdraw user consent for the terms of service associated with a chosen service list – functionalities that are crucial in the context of GDPR and broader data protection requirements.
  • A new application type for “Application in Series,” enabling applications to run before media presentation begins.
  • Mechanisms that allow the DVB-I client and the application providing media presentation to share information and controls.
  • Support for configuring CMCD (Common Media Client Data) client reporting for DVB-DASH delivered service instances, facilitating better network and playback optimisation.
  • Methods for DVB-I endpoints to identify non-standard extensions using schema-based and identifier-based approaches.
  • The ability to signal service lists compliant with different versions of the specification in the service list registry, helping to ensure a stable market as new clients and server updates are introduced.

Implementation Guidelines

In parallel, DVB has also published an updated version of the Implementation Guidelines for DVB-I, issued as BlueBook A184r2. This new release adds guidance on several key areas to support implementers, including:

  • Signalling of CMCD client initialization for DVB-DASH delivered service instances.
  • Targeting of services to specific regions.
  • Handling of HTML applications within an HbbTV framework.
  • Scheduling of channel list updates to maintain an up-to-date lineup.
  • Interpreting content protection signalling in relation to selecting scrambled broadcast services.

The publication of these updates aligns with broader efforts to support DVB-I deployment. Earlier this year, DVB launched a dedicated DVB-I Implementers Task Force to help companies bring DVB-I services to market, fostering collaboration and sharing best practices. Meanwhile, DVB’s global DVB-I User Interface Competition has already attracted more than 30 Expressions of Interest from teams eager to showcase innovative DVB-I experiences.

DVB BlueBook A177r7, an interim draft of ETSI TS 103 770 V1.3.1, and the updated Implementation Guidelines in BlueBook A184r2 are available for download from the DVB Specification Library.