HbbTV start bar for ZDF
Intuitive, clear, and accessible TV experience
ZDF is one of Europe’s largest public broadcasters. With live TV, an extensive media library, and editorially curated recommendations, it provides diverse content to a broad audience every day.
For viewers who access ZDF via HbbTV, we developed a new UI/UX design. It creates clarity, provides orientation, and enables direct, intuitive access to all ZDF apps, fully operated via remote control.
Customer challenges and needs
The previous HbbTV start screens combined live TV, restart functionality, the media library, and recommendations. Due to their short display time, key information was hard to grasp. Many users primarily relied on the restart function and overlooked editorial recommendations. Texts and graphics were not aligned with this behavior, making it harder to navigate and slowing down reactions.
Our solution
1. New HbbTV app portal that opens direct access to all ZDF apps
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A consistent, clear interface for all ZDF apps
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A distinct separation between app access and editorial content
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Fast and reliable performance, even on low-powered devices
Benefit: A single, intuitive starting point that helps viewers navigate between live TV, restart options, and the media library. Favorites become instantly accessible.
2. Pop-up notifications that make information easy to understand
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Step-by-step pop-ups that allow information to be absorbed at a glance
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Clear, readable, and logically structured text and graphics
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Color-coded messages for immediate functional recognition
Benefit: Viewers always know which function they are using – stress-free, fast, and reliable.
Functional logic at a glance
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Live program: When the TV is turned on, the current program appears immediately. The blue button restarts the broadcast, so viewers never miss a moment.
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Catch-up content: Not interested in the current program? The red button opens direct access to the media library.
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Recommendations: The green button offers editorially curated lean-back content for those who simply want to relax.
Result: A consistent, effortless user experience that provides orientation and significantly simplifies HbbTV navigation.
Unlocking the full potential of HbbTV
We rethink HbbTV and design technologies that help users find and enjoy content instantly. With clear structure, intelligent navigation, and intuitive interactions, we guide and empower our clients reliably, energetically, and with a focus on innovation.
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