Open IPTV Forum merges with HbbTV Association

The Open IPTV Forum has merged with the HbbTV Association, in a move that recognises the coming together of the OTT, hybrid broadcast-broadband, and IPTV markets.

From this week the two will operate as a single organisation within the legal structure of the HbbTV Association, following approval from members of both the Open IPTV Forum and the HbbTV Association.

“The single organisation we have created will ensure that the common platform based on the OIPF browser and used by HbbTV will evolve in a compatible way to serve all three types of service delivery models covered by both our members – over-the-top, hybrid broadcast/broadband and IPTV,” said Nilo Mitra, president of the Open IPTV Forum.

Klaus Illgner, chairman of the HbbTV steering group, added: “We’re looking towards a converging future requiring us to adjust industry standards to changing market demands. By merging with the Open IPTV Forum, we’re continuing to take steps to remain at the forefront of trends in the TV industry.”