UPnP Forum, the global standards group which is responsible for the seamless connectivity between billions of home devices, will introduce its new UPnP+ initiative at this year’s IBC conference and exhibition, which starts today. The Forum’s new UPnP+ certification level uses new and existing UPnP device control protocols (DCPs) and UPnP Cloud architecture to provide features focused on delivering new technical capabilities for enhanced functionality and increased customer satisfaction in today’s ever-changing market of always-on connectivity.

UPnP+ is an evolution of previous UPnP capabilities that will assist devices attempting to integrate new paradigms, such as mobile connected computing, Cloud-based service delivery, Smartphone content sharing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). UPnP+ supports the implementation of web browser controls for a wide range of functions, ensuring future connectivity and making new services possible, in areas such as health and fitness, energy management, security and sustainability.

Scott Lofgren, President of UPnP Forum, said: “UPnP certification has been a prerequisite for several other consortia certifications for more than a dozen years. With the launch of our new UPnP+ certification program we are taking a step forward to address tomorrow’s connectivity requirements, removing boundaries and enabling full device and network compatibility.”

The Forum’s UPnP+ certification level accommodates Cloud developments and bridges distinct protocols, providing a solid, future-proof basis for the integration of Cloud content and services. UPnP core technology provides a base for IoT, creating bridges to both wide-area networks and non-IP devices. The Forum has already produced DCPs for lights, thermostats, automatic blinds and security cameras, and is now developing support for new IoT devices, specifically those with constrained resources.

“Entirely new domains, introduced as a result of the rise of the Internet of Things and Cloud computing are now enabled with UPnP+. With the new UPnP+ certification level, we are leveraging existing UPnP protocols, taking them into the Cloud to bridge the IoT while continuing to support legacy UPnP devices…something consumers and the industry want!,” added Lofgren.