Samsung SmartTV Application Development

11

The Convergence and AllShare Framework

Introducing the Convergence

Server-Side (SmartTV) Convergence Application

Client-Side (a Mobile Device) Convergence Application

Introducing the AllShare Framework

Summary

Popularity of smart phones and SmartTVs eventually called need of a convergence framework that supports interaction between different platforms. In addition to the smart phones and SmartTVs, recent cameras and cars are also equipped with smart functions. With the concept of the Samsung Smart Home that combines all smart electronics, the Convergence has become popular. The Samsung SmartTV supports the Convergence API for interacting with other devices and leads this trend.

Introducing the Convergence

What is the Convergence?

In a Samsung SmartTV application, the Convergence means the Convergence App API that supports a Samsung SmartTV application to communicate with other devices and allows them to control the application. The Samsung SmartTV Convergence provides a REST-type interface for this connection. This implementation requires other devices to support HTTP (including UPnP) to connect the application. (The Convergence and the Convergence App API will be used in interchanging matter.)

While there are many devices that can access a Samsung SmartTV application, this book will use an Android Smart Phone to explain the Convergence. This chapter is primarily written for developers experienced in Android programming, but also can be read for a broad conceptual understanding. ...