Methods for device characterisation in media services

Abstract

Content distribution in video streaming services and interactive TV multi-screen experiences could be improved through the characterisation of each involved device. These applications could provide a much more coherent user experience if the underlying system is able to detect the type of each device, since a device type exhibits specific features that should be considered on the adaptation process. Some of these features are attainable in the browser through different libraries and APIs, but their limited reliability forces to turn to more abstract levels of characterisation. The device type property (smartphone, tablet, desktop, tv) allows to classify devices according to a set of common specific features and its detection at runtime is very helpful for the adaptation process. In the context of a more extensive research, this paper compares three different methods of Web-based device type detection improving upon the existing state of the art and which have been validated through a hybrid broadcast broadband interactive multi-screen service.