ActiveVideo Networks has announced it will be demonstrating the multichannel television industry’s first example of the ability for consumers to launch Web-based interactive content from Enhanced Binary Interchange Format (EBIF) prompts.

 

ActiveVideo said that it’s all set to show several EBIF applications that provide increased viewer engagement in the first week of April at a trade show.

 

The new EBIF applications are expected to provide a portal-like programming experience with bonus materials that would extend the brand of popular shows; and also multi-tiered advertising microsites that showcase videos and products within a specific market.

 

“EBIF represents a significant step for the cable industry in terms of ubiquitous interactivity. Combining EBIF with interactive, video content from the Internet and/or from operators’ video on demand (VOD) platforms, creates a media-rich, immersive interactive video ad that maximizes the viewer experience and impact,” said John Callahan, CTO at ActiveVideo Networks.

 

He said that the demonstrations will underscore how cable can deliver the Web choice and control subscribers are seeking in the television environment that they enjoy.

 

Callahan also noted that the rise in video consumption at the PC and the parade of new Web-to-TV consumer devices indicate that consumers want greater video choice and the 10-foot experience of the living room television.

 

“Cable's pioneering efforts in EBIF and the power and reach of the industry's managed network give it tremendous advantages in meeting those desires,” he said.

 

EBIF triggers embedded in linear television shows or commercials enable telescoping into a programming or advertising microsite, said company officials. The keyclicks on standard remote controls initiate local application overlays, enabling viewers to navigate through several options. These options include links to show-related or advertising videos that are streamed from network servers.

 

ActiveVideo Networks  (News - Alert)is a provider of programming and technology that infuse television with Web content and interactivity.

 

Earlier this month, the company announced a partnership with Zodiac Interactive (News - Alert) to accelerate the ability of cable operators deploying tru2way technology to bring Web-infused television experiences to their subscribers.