The metadata groups register defined in this standard covers the use of metadata for all types of essence (picture, sound, data in their various forms). Applications of individual register entries will vary but, when used, shall conform to the definitions and formats in this metadata groups register standard.

The metadata groups register defines groups of metadata elements for the exchange of information in all kinds of groups (sets and packs) defined by SMPTE ST 336, Section 6.

This standard also defines the information elements that appear in XML encoded instances the metadata groups register.