Television meta-data standardization overview and opportunities

This paper provides an overview of how data describing the content available on a television viewing system, hereafter called television meta-data or TV meta-data, can be generated, transported, and used independently of the actual content delivery. The first, and most widespread, use of TV meta-data is in support of electronic program guides (EPG), although other applications are beginning to appear. Standardization of the basic interchange formats, structure and content of meta-data collections is highly desirable, as it creates exciting opportunities in the creation, dissemination and use of this data.