Who would have thought that a technology from the 1970s could still be an issue today? Teletext - a revolutionary source of information at the time - fluctuates between cult status and relic in today's digital world. But how do you keep the info dinosaur alive on a modern TV platform?
This was precisely the challenge we faced when integrating teletext into our TV platform. This much can already be said: the fossil that was thought to be dead is alive and has found a new home in our TV world.
Why teletext at all?
"Who the hell still uses Teletext?" was our team's first reaction. In fact, the info dinosaur is still indispensable for many - be it for weather, news or sport.
Our task was therefore to ensure that this target group did not have to do without its cherished function in the digital world. And so it was clear to us: the info dinosaur deserves a digital rebirth.
The technical journey through time
Sounds like a simple task? Far from it! Teletext is based on analog technology, in which information was transmitted via the so-called blanking interval in the picture lines. In the IP-based digital world, this concept simply no longer exists.
In order to display the teletext digitally, we had to redevelop the entire system. This was not just about the technical functionality, but also about the look: the pixel-perfect retro look had to be retained, but at the same time scaled correctly on modern HD screens. It was a balancing act between nostalgia and technical precision - and a small piece of engineering.
Retro meets user experience
Modern set-top boxes no longer have a classic teletext button. So we have integrated the function directly into our user interface. This way, it remains easily accessible - and still feels familiar.
The goal was clear: to create a user experience that retains the operating logic of teletext, but at the same time fits seamlessly into the modern TV world. The result? Mission accomplished!
Conclusion: The Infosaur is digital
The integration of teletext into our TV platform is more than just a technical gimmick. It shows that even tried-and-tested technologies can find their place in a modern environment.
The info dinosaur has not only survived, it has found a new home - and proves that nostalgia and innovation can go hand in hand.
Would you like to find out more about how our white label TV platform combines tradition and innovation? Discover the possibilities at netstream.ch/tvaas.
