Jay launches first in-episode info application

Media technology company Jay is changing the game for the automation of metadata in media in Germany. The pioneering service now allows viewers to access information about a movie or TV series they are watching via the new ‘Xplore’ application.

Jay, which is part of Transfermedia, provides what they call ‘layers of content for audiences’. During the 27th of October episode of Polizeiruf 110 "Der Fremde im Spiegel", viewers got their first chance to use the ‘Xplore’ widget, in the ARD start application for HbbTV. While the episode is paused, images of the actors starring in the scene and the current location featured, are listed on-screen with more information. At the end of the episode, the information for all of the actors from the entire episode and all of the locations featured throughout, can be asked once again.

"For viewers, this offers completely new possibilities for additional information integrated directly on the screen," says Dirk Lüdemann, Head of HA Distribution within the Production and Operations Directorate of rbb. "It is also conceivable with this service to link to other content and programmes - that has a lot of potential." 

This development is accessible with Jay via all HbbTV devices, requiring no additional cost for viewers. However, as impressive as this development is, it’s just the beginning for the company, with further developments for in-episode metadata updates coming soon.