Frequently Asked Questions

enableTV FAQs

Q: What is Interactive Television (iTV)?
A: At the simplest level, Interactive Television (iTV) is TV programming combined with interactive content that enhances the viewer experience. To enable true interactivity requires the use of a back channel, which allows the application to communicate with the delivery system. iTV functionality exists in most digital systems in some form or another and permits the viewer to make a request for action or information (beyond just changing the channel) using their remote control. Examples of iTV in today's systems include Video On Demand (VOD) and the Electronic Program Guide (EPG). However, with advances in technology and standards-based platforms iTV is evolving to support more sophisticated applications and interactive content.

Q: What are the typical types of interactive television applications?
A: Interactive Television Applications are software programs loaded on a device (like a set-top box or TV) and viewed using a TV that the viewer can interact with. The Electronic Program Guide is one of the most common interactive television applications on today's systems. However, with advances in technology and standards-based platforms iTV is evolving to support more sophisticated applications like polling and voting, t-commerce, games video-on-demand, news tickers, and trivia. Some cable and satellite systems offer applications that permit viewers to view and purchase travel packages, research automobiles, search for jobs, research real estate, and play interactive video games.

Q: What are bound and unbound applications?
A: Bound and unbound applications in Interactive Television refer to whether or not the application is directly tied to a specific television program that is being aired. A bound application is one that is directly related to a specific television program and its operation is bound by the airing of the program itself. So for example, voting on America Idol contestants during the live show from your television's remote control would be an example of a bound application, as would answering questions about political candidates during a primary debate. An unbound application is one that can operate no matter what television programming is airing. The electronic program guide, (EPG) is an example of an unbound application.

Q: Is iTV an initiative by cable operators? Who is making iTV happen?
A: Interactive Television is a broad initiative involving all of the content delivery organizations, content providers and manufacturers of consumer electronic devices (set-top boxes, televisions). The cable industry has been one of the most active participants and has been working to upgrade their systems to facility the full-scale implementation of iTV. The cable industry has developed common standards and an open platform to ensure interoperability of devices on different cable systems (as mandated by the FCC). The Telcos have also begun providing multichannel video and are beginning to deploy iTV. The Satellite industry also has deployed several interactive applications which include games and information type applications.

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