JPSearch: An answer to the lack of standardization in mobile image retrieval

The amount of imagery that is available via various content providers grows at a staggering rate. Contemporary handheld devices allow accessing these content providers anytime, anyplace. Moreover, using the build-in camera, one can easily contribute to these online image repositories. The present lack of consistency in how repositories are accessed for retrieval or syncing complicates inter-operability between devices and systems. JPSearch, a recent standardization initiative within the Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG) committee, resolves this predicament by defining the interfaces and protocols for data exchange between them, while restricting as little as possible how those devices, systems or components perform their task.