The EBU has announced a project to define specifications for cross-platform graphics integration.
Aiming to enable media organisations to deliver consistent graphics experiences across a diverse range of platforms, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has announced its OGraf project to create a definitive open specification.
The initiative is driven by the EBU HTML Graphics group, and focuses on a modular approach enabling integration into existing packages and allowing graphics to be seamlessly rendered on digital platforms, traditional broadcasts, web streams, video editing tools and more.
With an emphasis on interoperability, OGraf’s draft specification introduces a modular HTML-based framework designed for live and non-live use cases, built on widely adopted technologies such as HTML5 and Web Components. The project aims to deliver a lower barrier to entry for development, integration and content creation.
Key features include:
- Single, open format: A unified HTML-based standard for both rendered and live graphics.
- Flexible API framework: Seamlessly integrates OGraf-compliant controllers, servers, and renderers – commercial or open source.
- Modular workflow: Replace or upgrade individual components without disrupting the system.
- Universal delivery: Rendered graphics across traditional media, web platforms, video editing systems, streaming, and interactive devices.
- Interactive ready: Enables audience engagement through user-interactive graphics across devices.
The EBU has made the latest version of the OGraf code and specifications available on GitHub, with both now open to industry feedback ahead of further refinements. A webinar is available to give a comprehensive overview of the project.
