Sofia Digital integrates 5G Broadcast with DVB-I Android app

Sofia Digital Expands DVB-I Android Application With 5G Broadcast Integration

Background: DVB-I Android Application For Media Broadcast

Sofia Digital developed a DVB-I demonstrator application for Media Broadcast in Germany in 2023. The application was designed for Android televisions and smartphones, providing users with access to a comprehensive list of DVB-I services along with EPG (Electronic Program Guide) data. The application adhered to the DVB-I standard, ensuring compatibility and ease of use across different devices. It demonstrated Sofia Digital’s ability to deliver a robust, scalable solution for next-generation television services, leveraging their expertise in DVB technology and digital broadcasting.

Key Features Of The Expanded DVB-I Android Application

Sofia Digital has now further advanced its DVB-I Android application, integrating 5G Broadcast capabilities to enhance service delivery and data management. This development builds upon the solid foundation of the earlier DVB-I application, introducing new features that leverage cutting-edge 5G broadcast technology.

The new features of the updated application include:

• 5G Broadcast and DVB-I service integration: The application seamlessly combines 5G Broadcast with DVB-I service lists and EPG data management. The service lists and EPG data are retrieved from Sofia Digital’s DVB-I backend, ensuring compliance with DVB-I standards. The service list data includes the service IDs required to synchronize with the 5G Broadcast signal, enabling efficient and reliable service delivery.
• Enhanced video playback capabilities: Initially, an internet connection is used to fetch the service information. Once the service information is downloaded, video playback can be maintained without an internet connection using the 5G Broadcast signal. This feature is particularly beneficial in areas with limited or no internet access.
• Automatic signal switching: To ensure uninterrupted viewing, the application automatically switches from the 5G broadcast signal to an IP unicast signal when the device moves out of the broadcast range, such as when transitioning from outdoor to indoor environments. This feature enhances the user experience by maintaining service continuity without manual intervention.
• Support for 5G multicast: The application also supports multicast via the 5G middleware provided by Qualcomm, further enhancing its versatility in managing network resources and delivering content efficiently.

Development And Testing

The expanded application was developed utilizing a pre-recorded broadcast signal provided by Media Broadcast and Rohde & Schwarz. A desktop transmitter by TestTree was deployed during the development phase to create a controlled “5G broadcast bubble” for validation purposes. The application was tested on receivers from Xiaomi and OnePlus, ensuring compatibility and performance across different devices.

This latest enhancement by Sofia Digital demonstrates the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation in broadcast technology, providing robust and flexible solutions that meet the evolving needs of the industry. Also, further enhancements are on the way!

Meet Us At IBC2024

Sofia Digital is attending IBC2024 – Stand 1.D98 – at the RAI Amsterdam, 13-16 September 2024.