RadioDNS held an introductory 30-minute Web-conference to explain its Project Logo, which the organization says brings together broadcasters and manufacturers to create a better radio experience in the connected car.
During the event, RadioDNS Chair Nick Piggott touched on topics concerning radio and music in the car today and how the organization believes that Project Logo can help create more flexible user interfaces for broadcast radio.
Piggott pointed out that the challenge for radio broadcasters is not whether radio is in the car, but how prominent radio is there. “We think we can use RadioDNS to deliver metadata that can allow for a better interface and overall experience,” he said.
He went on to explain that Project Logo allows for the metadata flow of radio station assets to receivers and that it specifies the minimum dataset from each station, while stations can add more if they wish. “Metadata flow transfers radio station assets to the receivers and it’s direct from the station, so there is no single point of failure,” said Piggott.
Compatible with FM, DAB, DAB+ and HD Radio, the ETSI-standardized technology can also let broadcasters repurpose the content they already have, he added.
For broadcasters interested in implementing Project Logo, there are five ways to do so. These comprise integrating the technology into existing systems; using the RadioDNS online SI tool; employing third party system providers; utilizing the Radioplayer radio portal; or via the European Broadcasting Union’s Project Logo service.
Mathias Coinchon, senior project manager at EBU Technology & Development explained during the webinar that the EBU’s RadioDNS service is a scalable cloud infrastructure and that the group’s goal is to help its members, and in some cases non-members, effectively implement the RadioDNS service. Coinchon also pointed out that while the EBU assists broadcasters in this project, it is important that each station can manage their own entries and logos, so as to be able to access and change the information on their platform directly.
Thus far, broadcasters from France, Italy Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Hungary, Slovenia, Belgium are taking part in the EBU Project Logo service, he said, adding that Poland, Portugal and the Czech Republic are expected to join shortly.
In conclusion, Piggott spoke of RadioDNS’ goals for Project Logo. He said that the organization’s objective was to have Project Logo metadata available to 60 percent of the market in Spain, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and France by the end of the year. Thereafter it strives to reach 50 percent of listeners in another five countries.
— Marguerite Clark
