ARD and ZDF want to jointly create open source Streaming OS

The German public broadcaster ARD and ZDF are working on a joint 'Streaming OS', which they also want to make available open source. In this way, a German streaming network with multiple suppliers could potentially be created.

ARD and ZDF have been growing closer for several years and will now also put their media libraries on a common technical basis. The code for those libraries will also be available open source, writes the German tech website Heise. In addition, a joint platform is being developed, which should become 'one of the largest open source initiatives in Germany'.

The Streaming OS combines the streaming software of the broadcasters, as well as the login system, the code for recommendations and the 'core of the design system'. In addition, the two organizations want to manage user data together. In the future, other broadcasters and even educational organizations can also use the technology, thinks ARD chairman Kai Gniffke. Gniffke even envisions a 'cross-provider German streaming network'.

ARD and ZDF are starting a joint office where Streaming OS is managed. The technical development is done by a commercial subsidiary, which is established under the management of ARD. The broadcasters hope that Streaming OS will be ready in the spring of 2025.