An IPTV system is nothing without its Middleware system. This software is what stores all content information including names of television channels, URLs for streaming content, and other metadata, and then transmits these to user devices. The Middleware system can also store information about actors, presenters, film studios, icons, and posters. It can improve the user interface and let subscribers add cross-references. The Electronic Program Guide (EPG) is essential for modern IPTV systems.
The IPTV middleware is composed of several components. The first component, the content access API, is responsible for presenting content information to upper-layer applications. The second component, the resource management API, manages application resources. Recommended APIs are listed in Table 6-1. The IPTV middleware also provides a service platform for controlling and encrypting the content. The IPTV middleware also facilitates configuration of significant IPTV functional modules and end-user functions.
IPTV middleware products from Nevron differ in the type of IPTV service they provide, and the set of selected IPTV apps. They can be installed locally or in the cloud. The solutions can be a standalone device or a web-based solution. In addition, they are available with or without hardware support. To make IPTV easy to install, Nevron provides the required hardware and software for free. Its products are scalable and can be customized for any type of IPTV service.
In addition, IPTV middleware helps developers implement communication and input. It also simplifies the work of developers, allowing them to focus on developing specific applications and features. There are three generations of IPTV middleware. The first gen middleware consists of an IP STB with a Web-based administration interface. The second and third generations provide low-level software with a graphical user interface. The third generation provides services different from the operating system.
