Digital UK awards contracts for connected Freeview service

Digital UK has signed contracts for the building and testing of Freeview’s new branded connected TV service.

Arqiva has been awarded the contract to provide the metadata system at the heart of the new service, while Digital TV Labs and DTG Testing have signed contracts to test the service.

“These agreements are a crucial step on the road to giving millions of Freeview viewers the freedom to watch what they want, when they want,” said Ilse Howling, managing director, connected TV at Digital UK.

Arqiva’s metadata system will let viewers move between live programmes and on-demand shows using Freeview’s new ‘backwards EPG’. This will include content from BBC iPlayer, ITV Player and 4oD with further content providers to be confirmed later.

The service will be built by Arqiva’s recently launched Connected Solutions business, following the merger of Capablue with Arqiva’s hybrid TV operation.

Meanwhile, Digital TV Labs and DTG Testing will develop test materials and test suites to assure quality and compatibility of products and services.

Work is also advancing with a range of technical development partners, including television and digital receiver manufacturers, according to Digital UK.

“Arqiva is committed to ensuring Freeview remains a strong and competitive player in the changing TV landscape. The metadata system we are developing will form the backbone of the new platform and sustain its value for years to come,” said Charles Constable, managing director of digital platforms at Arqiva.

UK DTT platform Freeview first announced in June that it will launch a new connected TV service in partnership with Digital UK – an organisation owned by the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Arqiva. The service is designed to make “the best of broadcast and on-demand TV available free for everyone.”