OBS integrates DTVKit with Android

Thursday, March 8th, 2018
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OBS is pleased to announce it has integrated DTVKit into Android using the TV Input Framework (TIF). This enables OEMs to provide access to broadcast DVB services on their Android powered devices. Integrating DTVKit with the Android TIF using the binder IPC, rather than via a proprietary mechanism, ensures compatibility with the Android architecture. It also enables OEMs to leverage features such as the AOSP TV reference application when developing their products.

Use of the TIF and binder IPC mechanism for the integration of broadcast DVB services, also ensures compatibility with Google’s Android TV. This builds on AOSP to add: Google TV services, DRM support, Play Store services, advanced search capabilities, and a custom Launcher. This means the joint OBS/DTVKit solution provides OEMs with the flexibility they need to create Android powered TV products, addressing both free-to-air and Pay TV Operator markets.

Android TV - DTVKit/OBS

Paul Martin, CEO of OBS, said, “We see Android becoming more important in both the retail and operator digital TV markets. Whilst more of the ‘must-have’ content and catch-up services consumed today are delivered via IP, users still want access to traditional broadcast services, particularly for the big TV events that are typically a shared viewing experience with the rest of the family. Integrating DTVKit into the Android TIF enables OEMs to develop products that support the best of both worlds, and demonstrates how OBS is best placed to help manufacturer’s deliver this type of product to market.”

Phil Evans, CEO of DTVKit, also commented “This is the next logical step for DTVKit. Already we can meet members requirements for low end (RTOS) platforms through to high end PVR and Hybrid solutions. Therefore, integration with Android TV makes perfect sense to ensure DTVKit offers the most complete solution to our members. This is especially prominent as market demand for Android TV is reflected in the requirements of our members.”

The DTVKit Android integration software has been donated by OBS and is available to DTVKit members; please ask your DTVKit representative for details.