CEA Launches Metadata Study Group.

ARLINGTON, Va. -- The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)([R]) seeks participation in a new Metadata Study Group to study how and where metadata is used. Metadata is structured data that describes the characteristics of a digital file, a digital stream or other resource. Common types of metadata include, for example, title and performer, although the number of metadata elements associated with a particular item can be extensive.

The CEA Metadata group will make recommendations concerning the metadata requirements of consumer electronics (CE) devices, the need for CEA relationships with other organizations, the need for coordination of standards development and possible standards and/or recommended practices that define how CE products receive, share, process and display metadata.

"CEA is always looking for new ways to use industry standards to grow the consumer electronics industry," said Brian Markwalter, CEA's vice president of technology and standards. "The Metadata Study Group was formed after a CEA Discovery Group identified metadata as an area that could benefit from improved industry standards."

"Metadata is essential to the digital media ecosystem," said the study group chairman, Adam Powers, director of standards and emerging technology at Rovi Corporation. "There are many types of metadata being used by many types of devices. By helping devices make the most of the metadata, consumers, manufacturers, retailers, service providers and content providers can all have a better media experience."

To join the Metadata Study Group, please complete the application form at http://www.CE.org/Standards/1447.asp.

CEA leads technology manufacturers in fostering CE industry growth by developing industry standards and technical specifications that enable new products to come to market and encourage interoperability with existing devices. CEA maintains an unmatched reputation as a credible and flexible standards making body and has earned ANSI accreditation. Through more than 70 committees, subcommittees, and working groups, the CEA Technology and Standards program provides a unique and efficient forum where technical professionals throughout the industry develop a unified technology roadmap and address technical issues critical to CE industry growth. For information about CEA Technology and Standards, visit www.CE.org/standards.

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $172 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES - Where Entertainment, Technology and Business Converge. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA's industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org.

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