HbbTV device compliance and certification
Ensuring that HbbTV devices comply with the HbbTV specification is essential for achieving interoperability across different devices and platforms. Compliance allows HbbTV applications to function consistently regardless of the device manufacturer or model, fostering a reliable user experience and a thriving ecosystem.
However, the HbbTV Association does not provide a formal certification program or directly certify equipment for compliance. Instead, it facilitates a self-certification process supported by the HbbTV Test Suite and standardized testing tools.
National certification and logo programs
In some countries, national certification or logo regimes exist to regulate the sale of HbbTV-enabled devices. These programs may be mandatory, depending on the local market or regulatory requirements. Some country specific links are given here.
Additionally, some specific HbbTV functionalities are subject to dedicated or ad-hoc certification programs. A notable example is ATVI certification, which applies to HbbTV-TA (Addressable Advertising) features.
HbbTV Logo License Agreement (LLA)
Manufacturers of HbbTV-compliant products may apply for the right to use the HbbTV logo by entering into a Logo License Agreement (LLA). The LLA allows companies to visibly demonstrate compliance and brand their devices accordingly.
To qualify for the LLA, products must successfully pass the official HbbTV test suite. This system operates on a self-certification basis, where the manufacturer is responsible for ensuring their device meets the necessary requirements.
More information about the Logo License Agreement and its terms can be found here.
HbbTV testing options
To support compliance, manufacturers can choose between two primary testing approaches:
- Using a registered HbbTV test centre: Manufacturers may work with an officially registered test center to perform the required compliance tests. A full list of registered HbbTV test centers is available here.
- Self-Testing by HbbTV members: Members of the HbbTV Association enjoy free access to the HbbTV test suite. This allows them to perform compliance testing in-house, provided they have the appropriate test setup.
It’s important to note that executing the HbbTV test cases requires not only the test suite but also a test harness, a software tool that controls and facilitates manual or automated test execution. The HbbTV test suite package includes documentation on how to acquire or implement such a harness.
Several companies offer commercial HbbTV test harnesses that support the required functionality, including:
These tools help manufacturers verify compliance efficiently and reliably, paving the way for logo use and market readiness.
Additional Information
More details are available in a presentation available here.