Qvest designed the user interface with a strong focus on big screens, iterating based on user testing.
Particular attention was paid to meeting current accessibility requirements to ensure inclusive use. All requirements were systematically documented and served as the basis for subsequent frontend development.
The CTV application is based on a unified codebase and runs on over 35 operating systems and OTT platforms, including HbbTV, WebOS, Tizen, Roku, Fire TV, and Android TV. This significantly reduces cross-platform development and maintenance efforts.
Its modular React-based architecture allows for easy expansion. Centralized device configuration simplifies device management.
A custom aggregation service optimizes ZDF’s GraphQL API to ensure stable and performant data delivery—even on low-performance devices, which use a resource-efficient frontend.
Quality assurance takes place in an in-house test lab with over 70 TV devices and set-top boxes, ensuring a stable user experience across all platforms.
The app radically rethinks the “Continue Watching” feature. Content that has already been started is visually marked not only in a dedicated section but across all modules and pages, including:
For series and shows, the next episode is prominently highlighted in the user interface. This function works across platforms, automatically syncs with the user account—but also functions for user without login.
The app features a visually rich interface that combines video teasers with intelligent metadata. While browsing, users already get a sense of the content's tone and style.
Each title bundles all relevant decision-making information:
The interface is optimized for TV devices and remote control: large UI elements, clear structure, and responsive navigation.
The search function blends classic text input with exploratory navigation. From the first keystroke, results are brought visually into focus. Additional entry points like:
encourage spontaneous content discovery. Extensive filters (e.g. language, age rating, UHD) help refine results and enhance the joy of use.
Here too, the UX is optimized for TV use—including simple remote control operation.
ZDF offers a wide range of journalistic content—from documentaries to magazine formats. The newly introduced Meta Collections link formats across genres and organize them by current topics and societal questions.
Whether climate change, democracy, or societal transformation: each collection brings together documentaries, magazines, talk shows, and fiction—visually curated, editorially grounded, and continuously updated. A balance of information and inspiration.
The integrated video player is stripped down to the essentials—keeping the video front and center. All key functions like scrubbing, language settings, and energy-saving mode are easily accessible via an intuitive overlay.
Feature highlights:
Jump points for topics, people, and chapters
Technically, the player is based on DASH streaming—for efficient, resource-friendly streaming with consistent video quality.
With the new OTT app, ZDF reinforces its commitment to combining technological innovation with editorial responsibility. The platform stands for:
Whether for a quick update, in-depth information, or hours of streaming: this app sets a new standard—for the audience and in the spirit of public service.
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