Yes, the BBC or at least Project Canvas, has lost the plot !
I don't work in this area (computing more generally), but I prefer open
environments (no lockdown).
Why are the BBC trying to create the grand unified set top box (STB) ?
An all singing all dancing solution ?
The public service requirement for unencrypted signals, is likely to be
carried over to the internet (a natural extension of the status quo).
In my view, just a first reaction:
Single Brand: Freeview Online, Freeview HD no problem.
It should only require the functionality to provide Free To Air (i.e.
unencrypted) content, and provide a reference design for above, low
cost, low power implementation should be a design objective.
Wherever possible, using Free and Open Source Software and Open Codecs
(Ogg Theora, Dirac ?)
Other standard but patent encumbered codecs like MPEG4 are unavoidable.
The user interface should not only be skinable, but replaceable
(download alternatives).
No DRM except were built into the codec or protocol, which should be
optional, after all the basic system should be a reference design, with
the option to provide extra functionality, as long as core functionality
(ability to receive Free To Air TV or Free to Net TV) is present (which
qualifies for the logo).
i.e. For HD and online, what current Freeview (MPEG2), does a basic
unit, and if you want conditional access get TopUp TV and further
functionality a SKY or Virgin or BT STB's.
Capturing viewing patterns (targeted advertising), micropayments
(someone tell BT no-one likes micropayments) DRM etc, should all be
beyond the scope of the minimum specification (except were DRM is part
of a current protocol, e.g. Flash).
Provision of a USB or other ports should be at the discrimination of the
manufacturer, as the system should not facilitate lockdown, that is a
function of the proprietary solutions like PS3 and XBOX360, Virgin, Sky
and BT etc.
>http://www.bbc.co.uk/bbctrust/assets/files/pdf/consult/canvas_additional/competition.pdf
I downloaded it twice, I thought it was truncated the first time !
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