Programme: Programme "Research, Innovation and Digitalisation for Smart Transformation"

The project “Optimization of the Quality and Efficiency of Collecting User Data for IPTV Viewership” aims to address the growing need for detailed, continuous, and precise monitoring of user behavior when watching television channels broadcast via internet platforms (IPTV). This need is particularly pronounced in the context of dynamically changing technological solutions on the Bulgarian market, where more and more households are using online-based television services.

This project is being carried out by “GARB Audience Measurement Bulgaria” AD (UIC BG203346598) in Sofia. In addition to its core activity of collecting and analyzing data on television viewership, the company also operates as a Vocational Training Center in the field of media, software, and hardware technologies. Its work includes programming and implementing solutions based on single-board computers (for example, Raspberry Pi), including the development of specialized software for data processing and storage.

The need addressed by the project relates to the lack of reliable methods for tracking user behavior in households that use encrypted communication channels, as is the case with most IPTV services. Existing solutions either do not provide sufficiently precise information or are too expensive and complex to maintain. As a result of this project, innovative devices (set-top boxes with remote controls) are expected to be implemented. These will enable continuous and standardized reporting of viewers’ preferences and habits without violating legal requirements for personal data protection.

The main target groups are:

Households that use IP-based television;
Marketing and advertising agencies interested in reliable statistics;
Media companies and television operators seeking up-to-date data on ratings and user engagement.