The Broadband Forum has launched updates to two key smart home device standards that allow internet service providers to manage individual smart home applications separately without the need for complicated firmware updates.
According to the open standards organization, new features added to the USP 1.3 and TR-181 Device 2.16 standards establish a standardized, interoperable method for deploying and supporting value-added applications in a containerized framework for the first time.
The features can be used on all broadband subscriber connected devices, such as Wi-Fi routers, set-top boxes and smart home hubs.
John Blackford, Broadband Forum chairman and broadband user services work area co-director, says the upgrades will pave the way for service providers to introduce next-generation applications and services with ease and without the need for “monolithic firmware upgrades.”
“Our commitment is to provide an ecosystem that delivers the enhanced and diversified services that end-users now expect,” Blackford says.
According to the Broadband Forum, a device software upgrade would have been required for services to be installed. However, in a container framework, applications can be separated from the device’s operating system and managed dynamically within secure and trusted software containers.
This means that the lifecycle of the application can be managed by the service provider using the remote device management protocol USP 1.3, according to the organization.
The Broadband Forum says the upgraded standards create opportunities for operators to increase average revenue per user and to transform the broadband experience for the subscriber as they can move beyond simply delivering fast speeds and easily and securely deploy new services on subscribers’ equipment with application intelligence built in.
Regarding these standards, Broadband Forum also notes they allow for the comprehensive management of the software lifecycle of these applications, further streamlining the process for service providers to offer new and differentiated value-added services, including Wi-Fi management, cybersecurity, gaming, remote working, smart home, energy management, and more, the organization says.
“These latest publications from Broadband Forum will open up an array of possibilities for service providers, enabling them to unlock the full potential of their infrastructure and deliver groundbreaking value-added services,” says prpl Foundation President Len Dauphinee. “Service providers will now have improved capacity to control and manage connected devices in the customer premises, allowing increased customer engagement and service personalization.”
