Archives
:: 18/06/2009
Spain - Legislative procedure to allow for pay-DTT services launched
The government has formally launched the process to allow for the introduction of pay services on the DTT platform. It presented its draft law to the Consejo Asesor de la Telecommunicaciones (CATSI) for approval and will now open a consultation until 11 July.
:: 16/06/2009
Italy - Rome begins analogue switch-off
The first phase of analogue switch-off has been completed in Rome and its surrounding region, impacting over 4 million viewers. Two analogue channels, Raidue and Retequattro, have been switched off.
:: 16/06/2009
Spain - DTT services accessed by 58.7% of households
Strong growth for DTT services continued throughout the month of April. Over 615,000 DTT receivers were sold, representing 21,000 receivers sold per day. However, 8,000 fewer DTT receivers were sold compared with the month of March.
:: 16/06/2009
Czech Republic - TV Prima launches new service on DTT platform
The commercial broadcaster TV Prima has launched a new DTT services called R1. The new service is aimed at female viewers.
:: 15/06/2009
Germany - Allocation of frequencies 790-862 MHz expected this year
The Parliament has given its approval for the allocation of frequencies from 790-869 MHz located in the upper part of band V. It is expected the frequencies will be used by mobile telecom operators for the provision of broadband Internet services.
:: 15/06/2009
United States - ASO completed on 12 June nationwide
Across the United States, broadcasters have switched off their analogue terrestrial television services on 12 June. It appears that the process occurred without any major problems.
:: 12/06/2009
United States - 2.8 million households unprepared for ASO
Analogue switch-off is set to take place nationwide on 12 June. However, according to the latest data published by Nielsen, 2.8 million households are not yet ready. This represents 2.5% of all television households.
:: 11/06/2009
United Kingdom - Channel 5 awarded HD/DTT license
Ofcom has announced that it has allocated a license for HD services on the DTT platform to Channel 5. The new HD service is expected to launch in 2010.
:: 10/06/2009
Italy - Nearly 14 million DTT receivers sold since launch
According to the May news letter published by the DGTVi, 10 million households in Italy make use of the DTT platform. Of these, 8.4 million households rely exclusively on the DTT platform for their primary television reception.
:: 09/06/2009
Israel - DVB-T services to officially launch on 2 August
The official launch of DVB-T services is set for 2 August. Trial services are currently underway from Jerusalem on UHF channel 26.
:: 09/06/2009
Spain - HD tuner mandation likely to begin in April 2010
The government is expected to present its proposal on HD services on the DTT platform to the Consejo Asesor de Telecomunicaciones y Sociedad (CATSI) on 17 June.
:: 08/06/2009
France - CSA invites candidates to tender for local DTT licenses
The CSA is inviting broadcasters to tender for local DTT service licenses in the regions of La Rochelle and Argenton sur Creuse. One free-to-air television programme service in each region will be available on Multiplex 1.
:: 08/06/2009
Italy - Mediaset challenges EC decision on DTT subsidies
Commercial broadcaster Mediaset has requested that the European Court of Justice review the European Commission's (EC) decision regarding the government subsidies for interactive set-top boxes.
:: 05/06/2009
Bulgaria - Towercom awarded license to operate 2 DTT multiplexes
The Communications Regulation Commission (CRC) has announced that it has awarded a license to build and operate two national DTT multiplexes to Taurkom Bulgaria. The license is valid for a 15 year period.
:: 05/06/2009
Romania - Government could make €148 million for DSO subsidies
According to Broadband TV News, the government is expected to open a tender for the supply of DTT receivers to low-income families. The government is expected to make RON 623 million (€148 million) available.
:: 05/06/2009
Finland - Boxer acquires majority stake in PlusTV
The pay-DTT service provider Boxer has acquired a majority stake in the leading Finnish pay DTT operator PlusTV. Boxer already provides pay-DTT services in Sweden and Denmark.
:: 04/06/2009
Czech Republic - DTT coverage to reach 75% of population by 31 August
The coverage of the first DTT multiplex operated by the public service broadcaster CT will reach 75% of the population by 31 August. Currently, this multiplex is available to 52% of the population.
:: 02/06/2009
Spain - 18 areas to complete ASO by the end of the month
The government has confirmed that analogue switch-off will take place in 18 areas on 30 June and 4 areas during the month of July. This will affect a total of 4.3 million residents in these areas.
:: 02/06/2009
Spain - Frequencies from 790-862 MHz likely to be allocated for IMT services
The government has announced its plans for the use of the digital dividend. It will present a Royal Decree on 17 June that will reserve the frequencies 790-862 MHz for non-broadcast services as of 1 January 2015.
:: 02/06/2009
France - DTT coverage increases
The CSA has announced that 66 new DTT transmission sites have been put into operation during the months of April and May. This has allowed DTT coverage in certain regions to increase by 1.5% to 13.5%.
:: 01/06/2009
Hong Kong - CSM Research to track DTT audience
The research company CSM Media Research has announced that it will begin to measure audiences using DTT services as of 1 June and provide audience ratings specifically for the DTT platform.
:: 01/06/2009
Australia - SBS launches new digital service on DTT platform
The public service broadcaster SBS launched a new digital service on 1 June. This new service is available on free-to-air on the DTT platform as well as on several digital pay television platforms.
:: 01/06/2009
Czech Republic - CDG concludes DTT carriage deals with Z1 and Ocko
It is expected that the two DTT television programme services, Z1 and Ocko, will remain on the multiplex operated by the Czech Digital Group (CDG). This follows from the successful completion of carriage fee negotiations.
:: 29/05/2009
France - CSA announces further regional ASO dates
The CSA has announced the dates for the completion of analogue switch-off in Brittany and the Loire region. One a single day, the analogue services of TF1, France Télévisions, Arte, Canal+, and M6 will be switched off.
:: 29/05/2009
Croatia - Two multiplexes to launch using MPEG-2
It is expected that Croatia use the MPEG-2 compression format when it launches two DVB-T multiplexes next month. This information has been given by a representative of the broadcast network operator OiV which holds the license the operate the two multiplexes.
:: 29/05/2009
Serbia - Unlikely to launch DVB-T2 services
According to a representative from the broadcast network operator RTS, it is unlikely that Serbia will launch its DTT services using the DVB-T2 standard.
:: 28/05/2009
Italy - New DTT receiver logos launched
The DGTVi has announced that manufacturers will be able to qualify for two new DTT logos, the Gold label and the Grey label.
:: 28/05/2009
Hungary - TV2 to join MinDig TV platform
The DTT platform operator Antenna Hungaria has signed an agreement with MTM-SBS Television for the broadcast of its broadcast service TV2 on the DTT platform. TV2 will be available free-to-air as of 1 June.
:: 28/05/2009
France - TF1 to purchase DTT services TMC and NT1
The commercial broadcaster TF1 has acquired two broadcasters present on the free-to-air DTT platform, TMC and NT1, for €192 million. By doing so, TF1 has increased its presence on the DTT platform.
:: 27/05/2009
France - Switch-off completed in Kaysersberg
The switch-off of three analogue terrestrial channels, TF1, France2, and France3, has been completed at the Schlossberg transmission site on 27 May. Residents in Ammerschwirh, Kaysersberg, and Kientzheim are affected by the switch-off.
:: 27/05/2009
Italy - Rai 2 and Rete4 switch-off analogue services in western Piedmont
On 20 May, the analogue channels of Raidue and Rettequatro were switched off in western Piedmont, including the city of Turin, and affecting 3 million residents.
:: 26/05/2009
Iraq - Launch of DVB-H services
Mobision will officially launch its commercial DVB-H platform on 28 May. Services are currently available in all major cities, including Basra and Baghdad, as part of a pilot launched at the end of 2008.
:: 25/05/2009
Serbia - Launch using the DVB-T2 standard announced
According to Broadband TV News, Serbia is planning to launch its DTT platform using the DVB-T2 standard and the MPEG-4 AVC compression format. Should this information be confirmed, Serbia is the second country in Europe, after the United Kingdom, to opt for the DVB-T2 standard.
:: 25/05/2009
Australia - Conversion to digital television estimated at 47%
The Department of Broadband, Communications, and the Digital Economy has published the results of its first digital tracker for the period from January to March 2009. The report provides information on digital take-up in television households.
:: 24/05/2009
United Kingdom - Nearly 18 million homes will need to retune DTT receivers
The launch of HD services on the DTT platform will require all viewers to retune their DTT receivers. This is due to the reconfiguration of the DTT multiplexes necessary to make capacity available for the launch of four HD/DTT services.
:: 22/05/2009
Czech Republic - 48% DTT penetration in Prague
Following the completion of analogue switch-off in Prague at the end of April, 48% of television households rely on the DTT platform for their primary television services.
:: 22/05/2009
United Kingdom - Top Up TV adds BBC services
The pay-DTT service provider Top Up TV has announced that it will provide subscribers programme services from the BBC as of 3 June.
:: 21/05/2009
Spain - Broadcast network operator Abertis fined €22.6 million
The broadcast network operator Abertis Telecom has decided to appeal against the anti-trust ruling of the National Competition Commission (CNC). The CNC fined Abertis €22.6 million for abuse of a dominant market position.
:: 20/05/2009
United Kingdom - Exeter first city to complete digital switchover
The broadcast network operator Arqiva has confirmed that digital switchover has been completed for the Stockland Hill transmitter group in the West Country region. This includes one main transmitter tower and 23 relay stations.
:: 20/05/2009
Italy - Further investments in DTT network announced
The public service broadcaster RAI has announced plans to invest in the roll-out of DTT services. According to its director-general Mauro Masi, RAI will spend €290 million on the transmission network and approximately €100 million in new content.
:: 20/05/2009
Spain - DTT penetration reaches 53.6%
According the latest information published by Impulsa TDT, DTT penetration has reached 53.6% of the population. The region of Catalunya has the highest penetration rate, with DTT services accessed by 70% of households.
:: 19/05/2009
Slovakia - TU SR to reserve 790-862 MHz for IMT services
The communications regulator, TU SR, has published the results of its consultation on the digital dividend. It received a total of nine responses.
:: 19/05/2009
United Kingdom - Discovery puts launch of Quest on hold
Discovery Channels has suspended the launch of its planned free-to-air television programme service Quest. It had secured a programme slot on MUX A as a replacement to Channel Five which will be joining the multiplex reserved for public service broadcasters.
:: 18/05/2009
Spain - Government allocates funding for ASO campaign
To help educate viewers about analogue switch-off, the Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce has allocated €812,000 for an information campaign in those areas preparing to switch-off analogue services on 30 June.
:: 18/05/2009
Estonia - Eurovision Song Contest in HD on DTT platform at 5.5 Mbps
The public service broadcaster ETV together with the broadcast network operator Levira provided the Eurovision Song Contest final and semi-finals to viewers in high-definition on the terrestrial platform.
:: 18/05/2009
Italy - Partial ASO on 20 May in Western Piedmont
Two analogue channels, Rai 2 and Retequattro, will be switched off on 20 May in Western Piedmont. A total of 2.9 million residents in the regions of Turin, Cuneo, and Asti will be affected.
:: 17/05/2009
Spain - Dahlia TV and Mediapro sign broadcast service agreement
Dahlia TV has announced its offering for the pay-DTT platform should such services become permissible. The government is expected to propose new legislation to allow for the launch of pay-DTT services.
:: 15/05/2009
Netherlands - EPDnet to offer customer's KPN DTT offer
The Internet Service Provider EDPnet has annuonced that it will resell the KPN Digitenne DTT service to its customers as of 1 June.
:: 14/05/2009
Slovakia - TU SR invites candidates to bid for two DTT licenses
The Telecommunications Office (TU SR) is inviting candidates to tender for two DTT licenses. The first license is for the operation of the multiplex providing free-to-air services while the second license is for the operation of two multiplexes providing commercial services.
:: 14/05/2009
Russia - ASO to begin along the national borders
The Minister of Telecommunications and Mass Communications, Igor Shchegolev, has announced that analogue switch-off will take place region-by-region beginning along the national borders.
:: 14/05/2009
Spain - Some delays anticipated in first phase of ASO
With the first phase of analogue switch-off set to take place in 1286 municipalities around the country in June, the government has announced that 700 of these municipalities do not meet DTT coverage requirements.
:: 13/05/2009
Bulgaria - 6 applicants for DTT license
The Communications Regulatory Commission (CRC) has announced that it has received 6 bids for the license to build and operate two nationwide DTT networks.
:: 13/05/2009
Spain - Impulsa TDT calls for allocation of 3 further DTT multiplexes
The head of Impulsa TDT, Eladio Gutiérrez, has sent a letter to the government calling on it to allocate the frequencies for three further national DTT multiplexes.
:: 13/05/2009
United States - 2.9% of households still unprepared for ASO
According to the lastest research published by Nielsen, 2.9% of all television households are unready for analogue switch-off which is set to be completed on 12 June. This represents approximately 3.3 million households.
:: 13/05/2009
Spain - Antenna 3 requests authorisation for pay-DTT services
The commercial broadcaster Antena 3 has formally asked the government for authorisation to provide pay-DTT services. This follows the request made by Mediapro's La Sexta several weeks ago.
:: 13/05/2009
Panama - Selection of DVB-T standard
The President Martin Torrijos has signed a decree adopting the DVB-T standard for DTT services in Panama.
:: 12/05/2009
Italy - Strong growth for Mediaset Premium
Mediaset's earnings results for the first quarter of 2009 showed strong growth for its pay-DTT service Mediaset Premium.
:: 12/05/2009
Australia - Government allocates A$140 million for DSO
The federal budget has allocated A$140 (€78 million) over the next three years to fund digital switchover activities.
:: 12/05/2009
France - Prime Minister confirms 30 November 2011 ASO date
The Prime Minister François Fillon has confirmed that analogue switch-off will be completed by 30 November 2011.
:: 12/05/2009
Italy - Mediaset position on DTT platform under investigation
The communications regulator Agcom will investigate whether the commercial broadcaster Mediaset holds a dominant position in the DTT market and the impact that this may have on competition.
:: 11/05/2009
United States - FCC allows broadcasters to apply for new frequencies to extend coverage
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has agreed to allow broadcasters to apply for new frequencies in areas where digital television coverage and analogue television coverage differ.
:: 11/05/2009
Ireland - One Vision to operate commercial DTT platform
The Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) has announced that it plans to award the license to operate the commercial DTT platform to One Vision.
:: 11/05/2009
France - Canal+ seeks DSO funding
The commercial broadcaster Canal+ is seeking funding from France Télé Numérique, the organisation responsible for digital switchover, to help it with its campaign to inform viewers about analogue switch-off.
:: 08/05/2009
Hungary - RTL Kanal to join DTT platform
The commercial broadcaster RTL has agreed to make its television programme service, RTL Klub, available on the free-to-air DTT platform, MinDig TV. RTL Klub will be available to viewers in standard-definition as of 8 May.
:: 08/05/2009
Australia - Manufacturers agree to voluntary label scheme
The government has applauded the decision by consumer electronic manufacturers and retailers to join its 'Get Ready for Digital TV' campaign.
:: 07/05/2009
Malta - Free-to-air DTT network roll-out underway
The roll-out of the free-to-air DTT network is underway. The platform is expected to launch by the end of the year.
:: 07/05/2009
France - ARCEP opens consultation on broadcast network market
The electronic communications authority, l’Autorité de régulation des communications électroniques et des postes (ARCEP), has opened a public consultation on the market for broadcast network services. The consultation is open until 7 June.
:: 05/05/2009
France - Review of pay-DTT platform expected this summer
The CSA has announced that it will begin a review of the pay-DTT platform. A consultation on the topic could be launched as early as this summer.
:: 05/05/2009
Spain - Pay-DTT receiver specification expected by end of June
A working group has been set up by the Ministry of Industry to develop the technical specification for pay-DTT receivers. The government would like the receivers to be interchangeable between service operators.
:: 05/05/2009
United States - FCC calls for national ASO test on 21 May
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is calling on broadcasters to run three five-minute tests on 21 May as part of the effort to ensure that viewers are prepared for analogue switch-off.
:: 05/05/2009
Czech Republic - HD/DTT trial by Prima TV
The commercial broadcaster Prima TV has begun a trial of HD services on the DTT platform using the MPEG-4 AVC compression format.
:: 04/05/2009
United Kingdom - HD/DTT coverage to reach 40% by June 2010
It is expected that HD services on the DTT platform will be available to 40% of the population by June 2010 when the next FIFA World Cup Championship will take place in South Africa.
:: 04/05/2009
Poland - Cyfra+ to launch hybrid satellite and DTT set-top box
The satellite operator Cyfra+ has announced that it will launch new hybrid receivers that include a DVB-T tuner for the reception of free-to-air DTT services.
:: 03/05/2009
Germany - RTL to roll out services in Halle and Leipzig
The commercial broadcaster RTL has announced plans to launch DTT services in Halle and Leipzig this Autumn. It has been allocated a DTT license from the media authorities in Saxony-Anhalt and Saxony.
:: 01/05/2009
Czech Republic - ASO completed in Prague
The capital city Prague has completed digital switchover. Analogue television services were switched off on 1 May from the Žižkov transmitter.
:: 29/04/2009
Portugal - DTT services officially launched
Free-to-air DTT services have officially been launched by the DTT operator Portugal Telecom. Services are currently available to 40% of the population and will reach 80% of the population by the end of the year.
:: 29/04/2009
Spain - Single receiver to access all pay DTT services
The Ministry of Industry has asked the broadcasters and manufacturers to agree on a single system for the reception of pay-DTT services.
:: 29/04/2009
Poland - Services on first multiplex announced
The broadcast regulator KRRiT has announced the services that viewers will be able to access on the first DTT multiplex. This multiplex is expected to launch in September 2009.
:: 29/04/2009
Croatia - OiV awarded DTT license
The communications regulator HAKOM has announced that it has awarded a 10-year license to operate two DTT multiplexes to the broadcast network operator OiV.
:: 29/04/2009
Netherlands - KPN adds 60,000 new digital TV subscribers
The growth in the number of subscribers to KPN's digital television services continued during the first quarter of 2009. Financial results showed that KPN acquired 60,000 new subscribers.
:: 28/04/2009
Brazil - Government to open consultation on DTT network operation
The government is expected to open a consultation to define the obligations for the network operator operating the DTT network for public service broadcasters.
:: 28/04/2009
Romania - Updates made to broadcasting legislation
The Senate's Cultural Commission has approved amendments to the existing broadcasting legislation.
:: 28/04/2009
France - Canal+ to launch Canal Ready logo
Canal+ has announced that it will provide a logo, CANAL READY, for television products. The label will be used to inform consumers that the product can be used to access Canal+ services on the DTT and satellite platforms.
:: 27/04/2009
United Kingdom - Virgin 1 moves to SDN DTT multiplex
According to DTG, the television programme service Virgin 1 will now be available for 24 hours per day on the DTT platform as of 20 May. Previously, it had only been available for 12 hours per day.
:: 27/04/2009
Macedonia (fyr) - Telekom Slovenije to operate 3 DTT multiplexes
The Agency for Electronic Communications has officially granted Telekom Slovenije a 10-year license to the operate DTT platform. Telekom Slovenije had been the only license applicant.
:: 27/04/2009
Australia - Freeview launches new advertising campaign
The Freeview consortium has launched a new advertising campaign with a new slogan, "Freeview. More for free."
:: 26/04/2009
Italy - DTT penetration reaches 38%
According to figures published by DGTVi, 8.1 million television households rely on the DTT platform. This represents a penetration of 38%.
:: 26/04/2009
Spain - DTT penetration over 50%
In its newsletter for the month of April, Impulsa TDT noted that 50.7% of television households access DTT services. Madrid and Catalonia have the highest DTT penetration levels, reaching 61% of the population.
:: 24/04/2009
Italy - Mediaset launches new services on its pay-DTT platform
Commercial broadcaster Mediaset has announced that it will alunch two new services on its pay-DTT platform Mediaset Premium. The new services will be available as of Friday, 8 May.
:: 24/04/2009
Hungary - NCAH assess DTT platform
The National Communications Authority of Hungary (NCAH) has issued its assessment of Antenna Hungaria's DTT platform. The broadcast network operator Antenna Hungaria was awarded the license to operate the DTT platform in July 2008.
:: 23/04/2009
United Kingdom - ITV confirms plans to sell SDN
The commercial broadcaster ITV has confirmed that it plans to sell its ownership of the multiplex operator SDN.
:: 23/04/2009
Estonia - Kalev Sport files for bankruptcy
The free-to-air DTT service Kalev Sport has filed for bankruptcy. It has been unable to source the necessary funding from investors.
:: 22/04/2009
United Kingdom - Excess ASO funds to be used for universal broadband
The government is expected to begin talks with the BBC Trust regarding the reallocation of funds that had previously been budged for digital switchover.
:: 22/04/2009
United Kingdom - Switch-off completed in West Country region
The broadcast network operator Arqiva has confirmed that analogue switch-off has been completed for the Beacon Hill transmitter group in the West Country region. Viewers in Torbay and south Devon are affected by the switch-off.
:: 22/04/2009
Australia - Plans underway for launch of children's service
The government has provided its tacit approval for the public service broadcaster's plan to launch a digital service for children tentatively known as ABC3.
:: 21/04/2009
United States - Optimism for smooth ASO in June
The acting head of the NTIA, Anna Gomez, has expressed "cautious optimism" that the government will be able to supply sufficient converter box coupons to households in time for analogue switch-off on 12 June.
:: 21/04/2009
Lithuania - 29% growth in pay-DTT subscribers
The number of subscribers to TEO's pay-DTT service increased by 7800 in the period of January to March 2009. This represents a growth of 29%. The total number of subscribers to the pay-DTT service has now reached 34,000.
:: 20/04/2009
Portugal - PT launches DTT logo
Portugal Telecom (PT), which hold the licenses to operate the DTT platform, has launched a logo to help consumers identify DTT receivers.
:: 20/04/2009
Ireland - Boxer withdraws from the commercial DTT platform
The Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) has confirmed that the pay-DTT operator Boxer has withdrawn its application for the operation of three DTT multiplexes.
:: 19/04/2009
Indonesia - Mediacom expects to launch DVB-H services
The media conglomeration Global Mediacom has announced plans to launch DVB-H services through its subsidiary Tren Mobile TV and in collaboration with Nokia.
:: 16/04/2009
Spain - La Sexta submits request to launch pay service
The commercial broadcaster La Sexta has submitted a dossier requesting the authorisation to launch pay-DTT services. This request has been made prior to the Council of Ministers giving its go-ahead for the launch of pay services on the DTT platform.
:: 16/04/2009
Denmark - Commercial DTT services to launch in Copenhagen on 1 May
Boxer reported that it had 680,000 DTT subscribers for the first quarter of 2009. This includes its subscribers in both Sweden and Denmark.
:: 16/04/2009
United States - Digital unpreparedness shrinks to 3.2%
According to the latest figures published by Nielsen, 3.6 million television households are not prepared for digital switchover. This represents a total of 3.2% of all television households.
:: 15/04/2009
Poland - Commercial broadcasters request capacity in MUX 1
Preparations for the launch of free-to-air DTT services are underway. A single multiplex is set to launch in September using the MPEG-4 AVC compression format.
:: 15/04/2009
New Zealand - 14% of homes rely upon Freeview
According to the latest figures published by Freeview New Zealand, over 14% of households accessed free-to-air digital television services on the satellite and terrestrial television platforms at the end of March 2009.
:: 15/04/2009
United Kingdom - Arqiva provides DVB-T2 trial transmission services
The broadcast network operator Arqiva has confirmed its participation in the DVB-T2 trial initiated by the communications regulator OFCOM.
:: 14/04/2009
Bulgaria - Two tenders launched for DTT operation licenses
The Communications Regulatory Commission (CRC) is inviting candidates to tender for two DTT licenses.
:: 14/04/2009
Spain - Government to finance ASO communications campaign
The advertising agency Publiseis, owned by the media group Mediapro, has been selected by the government to handle a communications campaign on digital switchover.
:: 14/04/2009
Spain - Reactions to government's plans to allow for pay-DTT services
Enthusiasm for the launch of pay-DTT services in Spain has been strong. Broadcasters, especially Dahlia TV and La Sexta, have proven strong supporters as have manufacturers and consumer groups.
:: 10/04/2009
Bulgaria - Strong interest in DTT tender
According to Broadband TV News, the upcoming DTT tenders is drawing interest from prospective bidders interested in building the network. Approximately 50 companies have expressed an interest in participating in the tender process.
:: 09/04/2009
Spain - Government opens possibility for pay-DTT service launch
The government created some confusion following its announcement that broadcasters can apply for licenses to launch pay services on the DTT platform.
:: 08/04/2009
France - France Télé Numérique fears delays to ASO timetable
The head of France Télé Numérique, Philippe Levrier, has proposed a new timetable for analogue switch-off. He fears that it will be difficult to complete digital switchover by 30 November 2011 based on the current plan.
:: 08/04/2009
Italy - Plans for 21 DTT multiplexes after completion of ASO
The communications regulator has announced plans to invite candidates to tender for licenses for the operation of five DTT multiplexes. These multiplexes will be available following the completion of analogue switch-off.
:: 08/04/2009
Slovenia - Commercial broadcasters put DTT services on hold
Three commercial services have been removed from the DTT platform. Pop TV, Kanal A and TV Pika are no longer available on Multiplex A.
:: 08/04/2009
United Kingdom - ASO underway in West Country TV area
The first stage of analogue switch-off has been completed at the Beacon Hill transmitter and its 23 relay sites. Viewers in Torbay and south Devon are no longer able to receive the analogue terrestrial channel BBC Two.
:: 08/04/2009
France - FRANSAT to launch in June
Free-to-air satellite services replicating the existing services on the DTT platform will be launched in June. FRANSAT will be available on Eutelsat's Atlantic Bird 3.
:: 07/04/2009
Belgium - Consultation on future DTT services
The broadcast regulator and the government for the French-speaking community have opened a consultation on the strategic plan for the DTT platform.
:: 07/04/2009
EC calls for use of digital dividend for wireless broadband services
EU Commissioner Viviane Reding has reiterated the importance of using the digital dividend to stimulate growth and competition in Europe's telecom industry. Her statement followed a meeting held with the head of the Radio Spectrum Policy Group.
:: 06/04/2009
United Kingdom - 12.5 million DTT receiver sold in 2008
The highest sales of DTT enabled equipment took place in the fourth quarter of 2008. Nearly 4.5 million DTT receivers were sold, up 5.9% compared with the fourth quarter of 2007.
:: 05/04/2009
Portugal - Airplus ends appeal against DTT license allocation
The pay-DTT service operator Airplus has announced that it will end its legal battle to secure a license for the DTT platform.
:: 03/04/2009
Italy - Sale of analogue TV sets no longer allowed
In an effort to ease digital switchover, it will no longer be possible to sell television sets that do not include a digital receiver as of 3 April 2009.
:: 03/04/2009
France - Less than 20% of Canal+ subscribers use analogue
According to the pay-DTT service provider Canal+, less than 20% of its terrestrial television subscribers use analogue television. Canal+ only sells digital subscriptions and is offering its analogue terrestrial subscribers to switch to digital.
:: 02/04/2009
South Africa - ICASA opens consultation on DTT plan
The communications regulator ICASA has published its proposed regulations for the DTT market for public consultation. The consultation is open until 30 April.
:: 02/04/2009
Algeria - Launch of DTT services set for July
The government-owned broadcast network operator TDA will launch DTT services in July at three transmission sites. Services are expected to be available to 70% of the population by the end of the year.
:: 01/04/2009
EAO publishes figures on DTT channel genre
Recent data from the MAVISE TV database, developed by the European Audiovisual Observatory (EAO), shows the continued expansion of DTT services across EU Member-States.
:: 01/04/2009
Czech Republic - DTV penetration reaches 52%
Latest research shows that 51.9% of households access digital television services as of January 2009. This compares with a digital TV penetration of 28.6% in January 2008.
:: 01/04/2009
Malaysia - DTT tender expected in 2009
The Communications & Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is expected to invite candidates to tender for a license to operate one DTT network. The tender is expected to take place this year and the license to be allocated in either late 2009 or early 2010.
:: 31/03/2009
Croatia - Telecom operator HR participates in DTT tender
The Croatian Post and Electronic Communications Agency (HAKOM) has closed its tender for a license to operate two DTT multiplexes. It is expected that HAKOM will announce the winner of its tender by 28 April.
:: 31/03/2009
Poland - Approval nears for DTT receiver technical specification
According to Broadband TV News, the technical specification for the DTT platform is nearing approval.
:: 30/03/2009
Australia - Analogue switch-off campaign launched
The government has officially launched its analogue switch-off communications campaign. Switch-off is set to take place region-by-region from January 2010 until December 2013.
:: 26/03/2009
France - Canal+ to switch-off early in Provence/Côte d’Azur
At its last Plenary meeting on 24 February, the CSA decided that the analogue terrestrial services of the pay operator Canal+ will end on 25 November 2009 in the regions of Provence and the Côte d’Azur.
:: 26/03/2009
France - CSA continues to announce ASO timetable
The CSA has announced that analogue switch-off will be completed in Lower Normandy on 9 March 2010. It will become the second region after Alsace to complete analogue switch-off.
:: 26/03/2009
Romania - Government may make subsidies available
The government has opened the possibility of allocating subsidies to help ease the digital switchover process. Approximately €146 million could be made available.
:: 25/03/2009
France - Nearly 66% of homes access DTV services
Results published show that 65.9% of all television households accessed digital television services at the end of the second semester 2008.
:: 23/03/2009
Spain - 100 more days until first phase of ASO
The first phase of analogue switch-off is set to take place on 30 June 2009. It is estimated that affect 5 million residents in 1,286 towns, representing nearly 12% of the country's population.
:: 23/03/2009
Australia - New generalists services to launch on DTT platform
Details on the new standard-definition services to be launched on the DTT platform are becoming available.
:: 23/03/2009
France - CSA to allow more flexibility for DVB-H launch
Given the delays in launching DVB-H services in France, the broadcast regulator, CSA, has called for a more flexible approach to both the coverage targets and business models adopted.
:: 20/03/2009
Bulgaria - Regulator to launch DTT tender
The Communications Regulation Commission has announced plans to invite candidates to tender for a DTT license. Three DVB-T multiplexes will be available.
:: 20/03/2009
The DVB-T2 Validation and Verification group held a "plug fest" at the RAI Research Centre in Turin. The Plug Fest aimed to test DVB-T2 modulators and demodulators.
:: 19/03/2009
Sweden - PTS calls for relaxation of regulation for pay-DTT market
The communications regulator PTS has opened a consultation on the regulation of the DTT market. It proposes that free-to-air DTT services should continue to be regulated while the rules regulating the pay-DTT sector should be relaxed.
:: 19/03/2009
Italy - Strong growth for Mediaset Premium
Commercial broadcaster Mediaset's annual report for 2008 show that its revenue from its pay-DTT service, Mediaset Premium, increased by 78.7% compared with the previous year.
:: 17/03/2009
Japan - Government considers funding measures for DSO
The government is examining various measures to increase DTT penetration in preparation for analogue switch-off in 2011. One member of the ruling coalition has proposed a 1 trillion yen (€7.8 billion) package to assist with digital switchover.
:: 16/03/2009
France - CSA announces ASO date for Alsace
The CSA has announced that analogue switch-off will be completed in the region of Alsace on 2 February 2010. The region comprises a total of 1.8 million residents.
:: 16/03/2009
Spain - Government proposal to allow for license trading
Proposed changes to the current General Broadcast law (Ley General Audiovisual) will impact DTT broadcast licenses. Broadcasters will be allowed to trade up to half of their total DTT licenses five years following the attribution of the licenses.
:: 16/03/2009
Spain - Abertis refutes allegations of favouritism
The broadcast network operator Abertis has responded to allegations by the satellite operator Astra that the DTT platform has received preferential treatment by the government.
:: 13/03/2009
Spain - €1.2 billion spent on DSO
The Secretary of State for Telecommunications, Francisco Ros, has estimated that digital switchover has cost €1.2 billion to date. This includes the costs borne by both the private and public sector.
:: 13/03/2009
Bulgaria - Sale of broadcast network operator postponed
The planned sale of the broadcast network operator NURTS to the Austrian broadcast network operator ORS has been postponed. NURTS is currently owned by the incumbent telecom operator BTC.
:: 12/03/2009
Ireland - ComReg opens consultation on digital dividend
The communications regulator ComReg has opened a consultation on the use of the digital dividend following the completion of analogue switch-off. Responses to the consultation must be received by 7 May.
:: 12/03/2009
Spain - DTT penetration reaches 48%
The recent campaign promoting DTT services, Pásate a la TDT, has proven to be successful in increasing the sales of DTT receivers. During the months of December and January, a total of 2.1 million DTT receivers have been sold.
:: 10/03/2009
Macedonia (fyr) - Three DVB-T multiplexes to be launched
It is expected that Telekom Slovenije will be allocated a license to operate three DVB-T multiplexes in Macedonia. The license will be officially allocated on 30 March.
:: 09/03/2009
Poland - DVB-H license awarded to Info TV FM
The license to operate a DVB-H service has been awarded to the broadcast network operator Info-TV-FM. It was one of two contenders for the license.
:: 08/03/2009
Spain - Astra challenges government funding of DTT projects
Astra has decided that it will challenge the government's plan to fund projects that extend the current coverage of DTT services. The government had set aside €8.72 million for such projects.
:: 06/03/2009
Czech Republic - TBWA to lead ASO communications campaign
The advertising agency TBWA has been selected to provide communications services as part of the digital switchover campaign. The budget is estimated to be CZK 19 million (€690,000).
:: 05/03/2009
United Kingdom - DTG issues sixth edition of D-Book
The DTG has issued the sixth edition of the D-Book, the DTT specification used in the United Kingdom. D-Book 6 has been updated to incorporate the DVB-T2 standard which will be used for the launch of HD services on the DTT plaform.
:: 05/03/2009
Malaysia - Broadcaster requests DSO aid from government
Media Prima, the leading broadcaster in Malaysia, is calling for government support for digital switchover. Analogue switch-off is set to be completed by 2015.
:: 04/03/2009
Spain - Government allows use of its DTT logo
The Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce is allowing the use of its DTT logo "Pásate a la TDT" which was used during the highly successful DTT marketing campaign last Christmas known as "Que no te pille el toro". At that time, over 1 million DTT receivers were sold.
:: 03/03/2009
Slovakia - TU opens consultation on the digital dividend
The communications regulator, TU SR, has opened a consultation on the use of the digital dividend in order to gather views for the formulation of its policy.
:: 03/03/2009
Algeria - DTT services to launch in 2009
Government officials have announced plans to launch DTT services by the end of 2009. The new services will provide viewers with access to better sound and image quality. In addition, viewers will be able to access more television programme services as well as HDTV.
:: 03/03/2009
United States - Broadcasters appeal FCC decision on white spaces
Broadcasters, major sports leagues, and theatre owners are challenging the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) decision to allow for the introduction of non-licensed devices in the so-called "white spaces". They are calling on judicial authorities to rescind the FCC's decision.
:: 27/02/2009
United Kingdom - Cube Interactive to provide local services in Cardiff
The communications regulator Ofcom has awarded a spectrum license to Cube Interactive for the provision of digital services in the Cardiff area. It is 8 MHz of interleaved spectrum.
:: 26/02/2009
Portugal - ASO confirmed for 26 April 2012
Council of Ministers adopted a resolution calling for the completion of analogue switch-off by 26 April 2012. The process will be led by the communications regulator Anacom.
:: 26/02/2009
United States - 4.3 million households awaiting DTV coupons
According to the National Telecommunications & Information Administration (NTIA), its DTV coupon programme still does not have sufficient funding to clear the backlog of request coupons.
:: 25/02/2009
Italy - RAI launches RAI Storia
The public service broadcaster RAI has launched a new service on the DTT platform. RAI Storia is a history service providing a mixture of documentaries and movies.
:: 25/02/2009
According to figures published by DGTVi, 7.8 million television households relied on the DTT platform for their primary television services at the end of 2008. This represents 37% of all television households.
:: 25/02/2009
Spain - RTVE to launch Cultural.es on DTT platform
The public service broadcaster, together with the Ministry of Culture, will launch a cultural service, Cultural.es, on the DTT platform. Trial services will begin in April.
:: 25/02/2009
China - Full DTT coverage within 3 years
Jiang Wenbo, head of broadcasting planning at the national communications regulator SARFT, announced plans to make DTT services available across the country within the next three years.
:: 24/02/2009
South Africa - Regulator withdraws invitation to tender for DVB-H licenses
The communications regulator ICASA has withdrawn its invitation for candidates to tender for DVB-H licenses. This withdrawal has taken place three days prior to the initial application deadline.
:: 23/02/2009
Philippines - DVB-T likely standard to be chosen
The broadcast network operator All Asia Broadcast has announced plans to roll-out a digital TV services in the capital city Manila using the DVB-T standard.
:: 20/02/2009
Poland - Cyfra+ expresses interest in DTT
The satellite operator Cyfra+ has expressed an interest in the DTT platform. Its president, Betrand le Guern, has stated plans to apply for licenses for the provision of one or two television programme services as well as for the operation of a DTT multiplex.
:: 20/02/2009
United Kingdom - Two applicants for HD/DTT slot
Ofcom has received applications from two public service broadcasters, Five and Channel 4 / S4C, for capacity to broadcast HD services on Multiplex B. One license is available and is expected to be allocated in April.
:: 19/02/2009
United States - One-third of stations complete ASO on 17 February
A total of 641 stations switched off their analogue services on 17 February. This represents one-third of all full-power commercial stations broadcasting in the United States.
:: 19/02/2009
Germany - RTL interested in DTT platforms in Leipzig and Halle
The commercial broadcaster RTL has expressed an interest in launching DTT services in the cities of Leipzig and Halle. The media regulator for Leipzig and Halle is expected to soon invite candidates to tender for a license to operate a DTT multiplex.
:: 18/02/2009
Italy - Airplus TV to launch services in March
Following the agreement signed last December, the Airplus TV Group will take over the pay-DTT activities of Telecom Italia Media, known as La7 Cartapiu. Airplus TV will launch its pay-DTT services, known as Dahlia TV, on 7 March.
:: 17/02/2009
Italy - RAI 2 and Retequattro switch-off in Trentino
On the night of 15-16 February, two analogue channels, Rai 2 and Retequattro, were switched off in the northeastern province of Trentino. They represent a 20% of the total television audience share.
:: 17/02/2009
South Africa - Government provides €60 million to subsidise DTT receivers
The government has set aside Rand 780 million (€60 million) to help fund the cost of DTT receivers for low-income families. The aid will be made available through the Universal Access Service Agency.
:: 17/02/2009
Latvia - Interest high for supply of DTT receivers
In preparation for the launch of its DTT service, the DTT service provider Lattelecom is accepting bids for the provision of DTT receivers and has already received bids from 26 companies.
:: 16/02/2009
Austria - 90K mobile TV subscribers
Accordng to the telecom operator 3 Austria, it now has 90,000 mobile television subscribers. 3 Austria uses both DVB-H and UMTS technology for the provision of mobile TV services.
:: 16/02/2009
Hungary - HD/DTT trial extended
The free-to-air DTT platform, MinDig, will continue offering HD services. Already, one HD service, Duna TV HD, is available.
:: 13/02/2009
Belarus - DTT services available since July 2005
According to Broadband TV News, DTT services have been available since July 2005 in the city of Minsk. Services have also been made available in the cities of Grodo and Mogilev.
:: 12/02/2009
United Kingdom - Ofcom opts for MPEG-4 AVC 4.0
The communications regulator OFCOM has opted against the use of the MPEG-4 AVC level 4.2 compression format in favour of MPEG-4 AVC level 4.0 for HD services on the terrestrial platform. DVB-T2 will be used for the transmission.
:: 12/02/2009
Germany - Launch of RTL services on DTT platform in Stuttgard
The media authority for Baden-Württemberg, the Landesanstalt für Kommunikation Baden-Württemberg (LFK), has confirmed that the commercial broadcaster RTL will join the DTT platform.
:: 12/02/2009
Netherlands - 30k subscribers to DVB-H services
Broadband TV News has reported that the KPN DVB-H service has approximately 30,000 subscribers. The service was launched in May 2008.
:: 11/02/2009
Spain - Over 1 million DTT receivers sold last December
According to information published by Impulsa TDT, last December proved to be the month with the highest number of receivers sold.
:: 10/02/2009
Lithuania - Over 26 thousand pay-DTT subscribers since March 2008
The growth of pay-DTT services has been increasing rapidly. Figures published by the pay-DTT service operator TEO show that in the third quarter of 2008, the number of subscribers increased by 11,600.
:: 10/02/2009
United States - 700 broadcasters petition FCC for early ASO
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced that it has received requests from about 700 broadcasters asking for the right to end analogue services on 17 February. This represents approximately 40% of broadcasters.
:: 08/02/2009
Spain - RTVE to make DTT content available on satellite
The broadcast network operator Abertis has signed an agreement with the public service broadcasters RTVE to distribute RTVE's services on satellite.
:: 06/02/2009
Malta - Launch of free-to-air DTT services by end of year
The government has announced its digital switchover strategy for the free-to-air platform. The platform will be operated by the public service broadcaster and offer a maximum of six services on one multiplex.
:: 05/02/2009
United Kingdom - Ofcom begins licensing interleaved spectrum
Ofcom has begun awarding frequency licenses for DTT services in the interleaved frequencies between broadcast frequency channels. The first such license has been awarded to Channel M for the provision of services in Manchester.
:: 05/02/2009
Croatia - Candidate invited to bid for DTT license
The Post and Eletronic Communications Agency has invited candidates to tender for a DTT license. The license will provide the right to operate two DTT multiplexes for a ten year period.
:: 05/02/2009
United States - Analogue switch-off officially delayed until 12 June
Congress has approved legislation to delay analogue switch-off until 12 June. Previously, analogue switch-off was set to take place on 17 February.
:: 04/02/2009
France - ASO in Coulommiers begins
Today marks the day when analogue television services will be shut off in the region of Coulommiers, near Paris. It is the first analogue switch-off trial to be undertaken in France.
:: 03/02/2009
Spain - Discussions underway for Sony content on DTT platform
According to Rapid TV News, the broadcaster Telecinco is in discussions with Sony for the distributuion of content on the DTT platform.
:: 03/02/2009
Slovenia - Norkring to operate DTT multiplex
The Norwegian broadcast network operator, Norkring, has been selected to operate the country's second DTT multiplex. The first multiplex is operated by the public service broadcaster RTV SLO.
:: 02/02/2009
United Kingdom - Ofcom proposes 790-862MHz for digital dividend
Ofcom has opened a consultation on the use of spectrum in the 800 MHz band. It is proposing to align its spectrum usage with that of other European countries.
:: 02/02/2009
South Africa - MHEG-5 trial underway
Testing of the interactive TV middleware, MHEG-5, is currently underway as part of a DTT technical trial in South Africa. The trial began last November.
:: 01/02/2009
Netherlands - Cartoon Networks available on DTT platform
The pay-DTT platform will add the Cartoon Network to its service offering. The new service will be available every day from 6am until 6pm.
:: 30/01/2009
Spain - DTT coverage reaches 92%
According to the broadcast network operator Abertis, DTT services are available to 92.3% of the population.
:: 29/01/2009
Australia - DSO pilot to be launched in Sunraysia
With the southeastern region of Sunraysia set to complete analogue switch-off in 2010, the government has proposed a set of measures to ease the process.
:: 29/01/2009
Spain - €75 million to fund DSO projects
The Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce will allocate €75 million to digital switchover as part of its Plan Avanza2. Funding will be used in 18 regions and cities to help prepare viewers for analogue switch-off.
:: 28/01/2009
United Kingdom - Partial analogue switch-off in Meridian TV region
Digital UK has announced frequency changes along the southern coast of the country in the Meridian TV region. This affects residents in Hampshire, east Dorset, West Sussex, and the Isle of Wight.
:: 28/01/2009
United States - 50/50 odds that ASO date delayed
The House of Representatives has rejected the Senate legislation calling for a delay to analogue switch-off. The bill needed to muster a two-thirds majority in order to be approved under the fast-track procedural rules.
:: 27/01/2009
Latvia - Lattelcom to operate DTT platform
The incumbent telecom operator, Lattelecom, has been awarded the license to operate the DTT platform.
:: 27/01/2009
Netherlands - 735,000 pay-DTT subscribers
KPN, the pay-DTT service operator, announced that it had a total of 735,000 subscribers to its service. This is an increase of 45% compared with 2007.
:: 27/01/2009
New Zealand - Freeview accessed by 13% of households
A total of 52,522 HD Freeview receivers have been sold following the launch of services in April 2008.
:: 27/01/2009
United Kingdom - 118% year-to-year growth for Freeview+
At the end of December 2008, a total of 927,3000 Freeview+ branded PVRs had been sold, of which 26% were sold during the month of December. The sales figure represents an increase of 118% compared with December 2007.
:: 27/01/2009
United States - 12 June ASO delay increasingly likely
The Senate has unanimously approved legislation that will delay analogue switch-off until 12 June 2009. Initially, analogue switch-off had been set to take place nationwide on 17 February.
:: 26/01/2009
South Africa - DTT coverage targets unlikely to be met
The broadcast network operator Sentech has announced that it is increasingly unlikely that it will meet the target DTT population coverage set for 2010.
:: 26/01/2009
France - ASO in Nord Cotentin and Cherbourg on 18 November
The CSA has announced that analogue switch-off will take place in the region of North Cotentin on 18 November 2009. Switch-off in this region, along the north western coast, will affect 200,000 residents.
:: 21/01/2009
Italy - ASO switch-off in Rome by end 2009
The Ministry of Communications has issued a revised schedule for analogue switch-off in 2009 which is a slight delay from initial plans. A total of five regions will switch-off analogue services by the end of the year.
:: 20/01/2009
Italy - Freesat service to launch in June
The major broadcasters on the terrestrial platform, RAI, Mediaset and Telecom Italia, have announced their plans to launch a free-to-view satellite service, Tivu. The service aims to help drive digital switchover.
:: 16/01/2009
Romania - DTT services to launch in 2010
The head of the National Communications Authority (ANC) has announced plans to invite candidates to tender for DTT licenses in time for a DTT launch in 2010.
:: 16/01/2009
Poland - Two candidates for DVB-H license
Two candidates have bid for the license to operate a nationwide DVB-H platform. The license will be valid until 2023.
:: 16/01/2009
United Kingdom - Launch of Dave+1 on Freeview
A time-shifted version of the popular television programme service, Dave, will become available on the DTT platform. It will be available from one of the two multiplexes operated by Arqiva.
:: 15/01/2009
Poland - DTT launch set for September
According to Witold Kolodziejski, head of the broadcast regulator KRRiT, a first DTT multiplex will launch in September 2009. Services will be available in the cities of Warsaw, Zielona Góra, Poznan and Zagan.
:: 15/01/2009
Israel - DTT launch set for July 2009
The launch of DTT services is set to take place in July 2009. Viewers will be able to access 5 free-to-air television programme services from a single multiplex.
:: 14/01/2009
United Kingdom - Possible overfunding of DSO Help Scheme
The BBC has suggested that it may have money left over from the £600 million earmarked for the digital switchover Help Scheme. At this stage, the Help Scheme has required less money than initially anticipated.
:: 14/01/2009
France - Canal J to return pay-DTT license
The broadcaster Lagardère has returned its pay-DTT service license to the CSA. It has decided to stop operating its children's service Canal J.
:: 13/01/2009
Portugal - Launch of DTT services set for April
Portugal Telecom (PT), which will operate the DTT platform, has announced plans to launch services on 29 April. Services will be available as part of a national trial in 8 to 12 cities.
:: 12/01/2009
United Kingdom - CNN launches on Freeview
Freeview has announced that the continuous news service CNN has launched on the free-to-air DTT platform. The new service is available from 15 January.
:: 12/01/2009
Spain - 15 million DTT receivers sold
According to the latest figures published by Impulsa TDT, 14.2 million DTT receivers have been sold by the end of November 2008. It estimates that a further 800,000 receivers have been sold during the month of December.
:: 12/01/2009
Poland - DTT tender announcement expected in January
According to Broadband TV News, the National Broadcasting Council (KRRiT) expects to invite candidates to tender for the operation of the first DTT multiplex by the end of the month.
:: 09/01/2009
Poland - Joint bid by telecom operators for DVB-H license
According to Broadband TV News, a consortium of mobile telecom operators is planning to submit a bid for the license to operate the DVB-H platform.
:: 09/01/2009
United States - FCC to promote 'white space' usage abroad
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced that it will create an International TV White Spaces fellowship and Training Initiative. The FCC aims to promote the use of white spaces for wireless services outside of the United States.
:: 09/01/2009
United States - Obama team calls for ASO delay
The Obama transition team has asked Congress to delay the 17 February national analogue switch-off date. The length of the suggested delay is not clear.
:: 08/01/2009
Czech Republic - DTT services reach 58% of population
Recent figures issued by the Czech Telecom Office (CTU) show that DTT coverage continues to grow in the Czech Republic.
:: 08/01/2009
Lithuania - Nearly universal DTT coverage
The broadcast network operator TEO LT has extended the coverage of its pay-DTT service to provide nearly universal coverage with the addition of 6 new transmitter sites.
:: 06/01/2009
United Kingdom - Ofcom to auction 'white spaces' in UHF band
Ofcom is inviting candidates to submit applications to participate in spectrum auctions for local television services in the cities of Manchester and Cardiff.
:: 06/01/2009
Hong Kong - Mobile TV to launch in 2010
The Hong Kong Commerce & Economic Development Bureau has announced plans to launch mobile TV services by 2010 following an auction for frequencies in mid 2009.
:: 06/01/2009
United States - Coupon programme runs out of money
The government has announced that it has run out of money to fund its coupon programme which provided television households with up to two $40 coupons to use towards the purchase of a digital converter box.
:: 06/01/2009
Colombia - DVB-H services to be made available
The National TV Commission (CNTV) has announced that it will make DVB-H licenses available to broadcasters free of charge. Already, the telecom operator América Móvil has expressed an interest in a DVB-H license.
:: 06/01/2009
Spain - €5 million to support digital switchover
The government, together with the DTT promotions organisation Impulsa TDT, will allocate €5 million for the roll out of DTT services.
:: 30/12/2008
France - New services on DTT platform increase their audience share
The new broadcast services on the DTT platform have nearly doubled their audience share in 2008 with an average audience share of 11.1%, compared with an audience share of 5.9% in 2007.
:: 23/12/2008
France - Prime Minister confirms digital dividend allocation
The Prime Minister has officially confirmed the digital switchover plans presented in the government's France Numérique 2012 plan.
:: 19/12/2008
The public service broadcaster RAI has begun a trial of the DVB-T2 standard in Turin.
:: 19/12/2008
Spain - Court rules against two regional DTT license allocations
Two courts have declared invalid the allocation of the regional DTT licenses in Madrid and the Canary Islands as a result of the " irregularities" in the selection process.
:: 19/12/2008
Italy - Europe 7 allocated frequency channel
Europe 7 has finally received the necessary license for VHF channel 8 to begin its terrestrial broadcasting.
:: 19/12/2008
France - Parliament approves "must-carry" status
The Parliament has voted to provide "must carry" status for all television programme services on the terrestrial platform, including HD services.
:: 18/12/2008
France - Government calls on retailers to help with DSO
In an effort to increase digital television penetration, the Secretary of State for the digital economy, Eric Besson, has announced plans to work together with manufacturers and retailers.
:: 18/12/2008
Albania - Two multiplexes to be reserved for PSB
The National Council for Radio and TV has stated that up to two DTT multiplexes could be reserved for the public service broadcaster RTVSH.
:: 18/12/2008
Netherlands - Parliament votes to set up DTT programme council
The Parliament has voted to set-up a programme council for the DTT platform. As a next step, the Minister of Culture will need to act upon the Parliament's request.
:: 17/12/2008
Belgium - Norkring buys stake in transmission network
The public service broadcaster for the Flemish-speaking part of Belgium, VRT, has sold a 49% stake in its broadcast transmission network to Norkring.
:: 17/12/2008
United Kingdom - Over 9.7 million DTT households
According to the latest figures published by Ofcom, over 9.7 million households rely on the DTT platform for their primary television services, making it the largest television platform in the UK.
:: 17/12/2008
Spain - Government to allow broadcasters to lease DTT frequencies
The government is preparing legislation to allow broadcasters to sell or lease their television programme slots. Currently, broadcasters are unable to transfer their television broadcasting rights.
:: 17/12/2008
United Kingdom - Net Play TV to join DTT platform
The interactive gaming service, Net Play TV, has announced that it will join the free-to-air DTT platform. Services will be launched in January.
:: 16/12/2008
Italy - RAI launches DVB-T2 trial
The public service broadcaster RAI has launched a DVB-T2 trial. This is the second DVB-T2 trial in the world, following the one undertaken by the BBC in the United Kingdom.
:: 16/12/2008
Russia - DTT platform to offer services on 3 multiplexes
According to Broadband TV News, the Russian government has announced the television programme services to be made available on the first DTT multiplex.
:: 16/12/2008
Switzerland - New service on DTT platform
The DTT platform in the German-speaking part of Switzerland will add a new service, SF Info, from the public service broadcaster in January.
:: 16/12/2008
United States - NAB to set up call centre
The National Association of Broadcasters has announced plans to set up a national call centre to help viewers with digital switchover. It estimates that it will handle 2 million calls in the five days following analogue switch-off on 17 February.
:: 15/12/2008
Poland - Mobile operators to bid jointly for DVB-H
According to Broadband TV news, the four mobile operators, PTC, P4, Polkomtel and PTK Centertel, will form a joint venture with the aim of securing a license to operate DVB-H services.
:: 14/12/2008
According to the latest information published by Impulsa TDT, 7.3 million homes access DTT services. DTT penetration has doubled from 23.4% in December 2007 to 45.2% in December 2008.
:: 12/12/2008
Hungary - Launch of DVB-H services
DVB-H services have been launched in Budapest from three transmitters. Viewers with a Nokia N96 smartphone can access services unencrypted.
:: 12/12/2008
Czech Republic - DTT services reach 58% of population
As of 15 December, the coverage of DTT services has increased to 58% of the population. Alongside the launch of these DTT services, analogue switch-off has taken place at the transmitter sites in Susice-Svatobor and Chomutov-Jedlová.
:: 12/12/2008
Portugal - PT officially awarded free-to-air DTT multiplex license
Portugal Telecom has officially received the license to operate one free-to-air DTT multiplex. It is expected that services will launch in 2009.
:: 11/12/2008
United Kingdom - Fourth HD/DTT service to be launched
The communications regulator OFCOM has confirmed that it will be possible to launch a fourth HD service on Multiplex B. This multiplex will offer HD/DTT services using the DVB-T2 specification and the MPEG-4 AVC compression format.
:: 10/12/2008
Germany - Digital switchover completed on 2 December
The broadcast network operator Media Broadcast has confirmed that digital switchover has been completed throughout Germany. Services are now available to 90% of the population.
:: 10/12/2008
EC issues mobile TV guidelines
The European Commission (EC) has published a set of regulatory guidelines to help Member-States roll out mobile TV services to viewers.
:: 09/12/2008
South Africa - Tender opened for DVB-H license
The Independent Communications Authority (ICASA) has invited candidates to tender for two DVB-H licenses.
:: 09/12/2008
United Kingdom - Digital UK announced ASO dates for Scotland and Wales
Digital UK, the organisations responsible for leading digital switchover, has announced the dates for analogue switch-off in the regions of Wales, Scotland and southwestern England.
:: 09/12/2008
Slovakia - Tender for DTT license reportedly cancelled
According to Broadband TV News, the license tender for the operation of the DTT platform has apparently been cancelled.
:: 08/12/2008
France - Publication of ASO timeline
The long awaited analogue switch-off timeline has been published. The process will officially begin in November 2009 and end by 30 November 2011.
:: 08/12/2008
France - Canal+ to complete ASO on 6 December 2010
The switch-off of the analogue channel Canal+ will not correspond to the analogue switch-off timeline published by the broadcast regulator CSA.
:: 08/12/2008
France - CSA response to government's ASO plan
The broadcast regulator CSA has issued its opinion on the government's analogue switch-off plans. In it, the CSA noted that the process must be completed within a 26 month period given the late publication of the timeline, combined with the need to complete the process by 2011.
:: 05/12/2008
Spain - €6 million DTT advertising campaign
The government is spending €6 million to promote DTT services during the holiday season. The media campaign includes advertisements in the press, and on television and radio.
:: 04/12/2008
Bulgaria - Broadcast network sold to ORS
The Bulgarian broadcast network has been sold to the Austrian broadcast network operator ORS for a reported €80 million.
:: 04/12/2008
Spain - DTT services to be available on satellite
The public service broadcaster RTVE and Abertis will work together to ensure that all viewers can access RTVE's services available on the DTT platform.
:: 03/12/2008
Hungary - Launch of pay-DTT services
Two new services are available on the DTT platform - ATV and Hir TV SD. Both services, part of the Terra+ pay-DTT package, are available free-of-charge for the first year.
:: 03/12/2008
Russia - Planning for DTV underway
A working meeting has been held to discuss the development of digital television. Meeting participants included President Medvedev, Prime minister Putin as well as the Deputy prime minister and the Minister of Telecommunications and Mass Communications.
:: 03/12/2008
Czech Republic - Nova Cinema to launch on DTT platform
The commercial broadcaster CET 21 has confirmed that it will launch Nova Cinema on the DTT platform in January 2009. Already, Nova TV is available on the DTT platform.
:: 02/12/2008
Japan - DTT penetration target falls short
The government's target of 26 million DTT households by Setepmber 2008 was not met. The target fell short by 2.5 million with DTT services accessed in 23.5 million households.
:: 01/12/2008
Hungary - MinDig TV officially launched
The free-to-air DTT platform was officially launched on 1 December at 17.30. Viewers can access two television programme services, Duna TV HD and Duna II Autonómia, one of which is in high-definition.
:: 28/11/2008
France - 87% DTT coverage by end of year
The broadcast regulator CSA has confirmed that 77 new DTT transmitter sites will be launched between 30 November and 19 December.
:: 27/11/2008
Portugal - Anacom warns consumers about DTT receivers
The communications regulator Anacom has issued a warning that all DTT receivers must be compatible with the DVB-T standard and use the MPEG-4 AVC compression format in order to function in Portugal.
:: 27/11/2008
Ukraine - Availability of DTT services in Odessa
According to UDTVN, DVB-T services are available in the Odessa region since October.
:: 27/11/2008
Hungary - Duna TV to join DTT platform
The public service broadcaster Duna has announced that it will offer two services on the MinDig TV platform. The DTT platform is to be launched on 1 December and will use the MPEG-4 AVC compression format.
:: 26/11/2008
United Kingdom - Government withdraws £14 million aid for C4
The government has announced that it will withdraw its plans to give £14 million to the broadcaster Channel 4 to help cover some of the expenses of digital switchover.
:: 25/11/2008
Serbia - PSB launches digital service
The public service broadcaster RTS has launched a new digital service dedicated to arts and culture. The service is available on the trial DTT platform in the regions of Belgrade and Novi Sad.
:: 25/11/2008
Australia - Soft launch of Freeview Australia
The DTT marketing platform, Freeview Australia, has been officially launched on 24 November. Participants include the free-to-air broadcasters on the terrestrial platform, ABC, Seven, Nine, Ten and SBS.
:: 24/11/2008
Spain - Astra complains to EC about government policy
Satellite operator SES Astra has decided to lodge a complaint with the European Commission regarding the Spanish government's policy regarding the extension of DTT services.
:: 24/11/2008
Hungary - P-Sat to provide DTT receivers
The electronics manufacturer P-Sat Hungary has signed a four-year agreement with the network operator Antenna Hungária for the distribution of DVB-T set-top boxes.
:: 24/11/2008
New Zealand - Launch of TV3 Plus
The broadcaster MediaWorks has announced plans to launch a time-delayed version of its commercial service TV3 on the free-to-air satellite and DTT platforms.
:: 21/11/2008
Italy - 6.9 million DTT households
According to the latest figures published by GfK, 10 million DTT receivers have been sold since the launch of services in early 2004.
:: 20/11/2008
Slovakia - Four bidders for DTT platform operation
Four companies have expressed an interest in operating the DTT platform. They include the Austrian network operator ORS, the Canadian communications group Valtech Communications and the Slovakian companies Towercom and Telecom Corp.
:: 20/11/2008
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Scottish Border TV region
Digital switchover has been successfully completed at the Selkirk transmitter group in the Scottish Borders region. The transmitter group includes the main Selkirk transmitter and 11 relay stations.
:: 19/11/2008
Sweden - Teracom takes full control of Boxer
The network operator Teracom has announced that it has purchased the 30% stake in the pay-DTT service operator Boxer previously held by the private equity firm 3i.
:: 19/11/2008
Spain - TVC lobbies for spectrum for HD/DTT trial
Catalan public broadcaster Televisió de Catalunya (TVC) would like to continue its trial HD service on the DTT platform. This trial was stopped last summer to provide capacity for regional DTT services from Valencia.
:: 19/11/2008
38% of digital households in Europe rely on DTT
With a digital television penetration of 88% of households, Finland is the leading digital country in Europe according to a study by the mediahouse IP. It is followed by the United Kingdom with a digital TV penetration of 83% of households.
:: 18/11/2008
France - 750,000 free-to-air digital satellite viewers
SES Astra has announced that 750,000 TNTSAT receivers had been sold by the end of October. The service allows viewers to access the same services as are available on the free-to-air DTT platform from satellite.
:: 12/11/2008
Czech Republic - CET 21 to launch Nova Cinema
As allowed by law, the commercial broadcaster CET 21 has applied for a license on the DTT platform. CET 21 operates the commmercial service TV Nova which is available on the analogue terrestrial television platform.
:: 11/11/2008
Spain - 61.8% of communal antennas upgraded
In preparation for the first phase of analogue switch-off, 65,000 communal antenas will need to be upgraded to receive a digital signal.
:: 11/11/2008
Spain - 40% DTT penetration expected by end of year
According to recent information published by Impulsa TDT, DTT peneration stands at 37% of all television households and will likely reach 40% by the end of the year.
:: 11/11/2008
Italy - Pay-DTT services provide growth for Mediaset
The pay-DTT service of the commercial broadcaster Mediaset, Mediaset Premium, reported an 89% increase in revenue compared with the same period in 2007. Total revenue for the first nine months of 2008 reached €269.5 million.
:: 11/11/2008
Lithuania - Survey shows more ASO information needed
A recent survey conducted by TNS Gallup on behalf of the network operator TEO has shown that only 19% of Lithuanians claim to have sufficient information about digital switchover.
:: 10/11/2008
France - TDF to trial push-VOD for DTT platform
The network operator TDF will trial a push video-on-demand (VOD) service on the DTT platform in early 2009. Broadcasters such as TF1, M6 and France Télévision have expressed interest.
:: 07/11/2008
Spain - Impulsa TDT guarantees DTT coverage before ASO
Eladio Gutiérrez, the head of the DTT promotions organisation Impulsa TDT, has ensured that analogue switch-off will not take place until DTT replacement services are made available.
:: 07/11/2008
Germany - DSO to be completed in Rhineland-Palatinate on 12 Nov
Digital switchover will be completed on 12 November in the Land of Rhineland-Palatinate located along the western border.
:: 06/11/2008
Brazil - Slow take up of DTT receivers
A blog entry on Connected TV provides an update on DTT services in Brazil. Take up has been slow with only 200,000 receivers sold since the launch of services in December 2007.
:: 06/11/2008
Spain - UTECA calls for limits on PSBs
The association of commercial broadcasters in Spain, UTECA, has provided the government with suggested policy actions to help offset the sector's possible financial difficulties.
:: 06/11/2008
France - Government to provide €320 million for DSO
The government has announced that it will provide up to €320 million to support the digital switchover process. Funding will be made available for both communication activities as well as direct subsidies to targeted households.
:: 06/11/2008
United Kingdom - First stage of switchover completed in Border TV region
Arqiva has confirmed that the first stage of digital switchover has been completed in the Border TV region.
:: 05/11/2008
United States - 'White spaces' opened for use by wireless devices
The FCC has approved the use of 'white spaces' by portable, wireless devices. The measure was approved unanimously by all five commissioners.
:: 04/11/2008
United Kingdom - Freeview to promote Freeview+
Freeview has launched a national television campaign to promote its personal video recorder Freeview+. This campaign features several well-known British personalities.
:: 04/11/2008
Slovenia - Publication of DVB-T receiver requirements
The communications regulator APEK has published the minimum requirements that must be included in all DVB-T receivers (set-top boxes and integrated TV sets). These requirements replace the previous requirements issued on 25 April 2008.
:: 04/11/2008
Hungary - New media law expected by end of year
Parliament is considering new legislation to update its media framework that was put in place in 1997.
:: 04/11/2008
Portugal - Candidates invited to tender for TV license
The government is inviting candidates to tender for a television programme slot on the free-to-air DTT platform. Applications must be submitted to the media regulator, Regulating Body for Social Communications (ERC), by 21 January 2009.
:: 03/11/2008
Australia - Pay TV operators want to join DSO effort
Pay-TV service providers want to participate in digital switchover. They have expressed their outrage at their exclusion from the plannning for digital switchover.
:: 31/10/2008
Slovenia - Trial HD/DTT services available
Trial HD/DTT services are available in the capital Ljubjana on two frequency channels (channels 26 and 47).
:: 31/10/2008
Italy - ASO completed in Sardinia
The island of Sardinia has completed analogue switch-off in a process that began two years ago.
:: 31/10/2008
South Africa - DTT trial launched
The broadcast network operator Sentech has announced that it will launch a DTT trial on 1 November that will last until mid 2009.
:: 31/10/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom updates DTT license agreement
The communications regulator Ofcom has published a revised version of the Broadcasting Act multiplex licences and Digital Replacement licences for Channel 5, Channel 4, GMTV, Channel 3 in the Border region.
:: 30/10/2008
Germany - Mobile 3.0 preparing to hand back DVB-H license
The DVB-H license holder, Mobile 3.0, is expected to return its license by the end of the week. The license return had been anticipated since Mobile 3.0 had not fulfilled its license obligation.
:: 30/10/2008
Austria - DVB-H coverage expanded
The coverage area for DVB-H services has expanded to reach 53% of the population. This target has been reached earlier than required by the license conditions.
:: 30/10/2008
Czech Republic - CT rolls out DTT multiplex
The public service broadcaster CT will roll out its DTT multiplex in the cities of Prague, Chleb, Usti nad Labem, Brno and Ostrava.
:: 28/10/2008
Colombia - Launch of DTT services in May 2009
Preparations are underway to launch DVB-T services in May 2009. The launch will allow 11 million households to access DTT services.
:: 28/10/2008
United Kingdom - Final ASO countdown in Borders TV region
In preparation for the first phase of analogue switch-off in the Scottish Borders TV region, Digital UK has intensified its communications campaign.
:: 28/10/2008
United Kingdom - CNN to join DTT platform
The DTT slot currently occupied by Nuts TV will be replaced by CNN in January. It will be available in the evening from 21.00 until 1.00.
:: 28/10/2008
Austria - ASO in lower part of country
Analogue switch-off set to take place in Lower Austria on 18 November.
:: 27/10/2008
France - Coulommiers to finish ASO pilot on 4 February
The first digital switchover pilot will begin in the region of Coulommiers on 8 November. On this date, DTT services will be launched for access by 70% of the local population.
:: 27/10/2008
Germany - ASO to be completed on 25 November
Fifty years of analogue terrestrial television will come to an end on 25 November. On this date, analogue switch-off will be be completed.
:: 26/10/2008
Belgium - Two new services on RTBF DTT platform
The public service broadcaster for the French-speaking community, RTBF, is set to add two new television programme services to its DTT platform. TV5 Monde and Arte will join the platform in March 2009.
:: 26/10/2008
Spain - €35 million to support ASO
The government has agreed to allocate €35 million to help with the completion of the first phase of analogue switch-off.
:: 24/10/2008
Slovenia - Tender re-opened for MUX B
The communications regulator APEK is inviting candidates to tender for the operation of one multiplex, MUX B. Another multiplex, MUX A, has been allocated to the public service broadcaster RTV SLO.
:: 23/10/2008
France - DTT broadcasters interested in sport content
New broadcasters with services available on the DTT platform are showing an interest in providing sport content.
:: 23/10/2008
Czech Republic - TV Barrandov to launch in January
TV Barrandov has signed an agreement with the network operator Cesky Radiokomunikace for the carriage of its DTT service.
:: 23/10/2008
United Kingdom - SDN makes television programme service slot available
Broadband TV News has reported that the operator of Multiplex A, SDN, is inviting proposals for a new television programme service slot.
:: 22/10/2008
Switzerland - 5000 DVB-H subscribers
According to the CEO of Swisscom Broadcasting, Jean-Paul de Weck, the take-up of DVB-H services has been slow.
:: 22/10/2008
United Kingdom - Consultation opened on using temporary frequencies for HD/DTT
The communications regulator OFCOM has opened a consultation on the use of temporary UHF frequencies to allow for the launch of HD/DTT services prior to the completion of analogue switch-off.
:: 22/10/2008
Netherlands - Estimated 670,000 DTT subscribers
According to estimates made by Broadband TV News, there are 670,000 pay-DTT subscribers in the Netherlands.
:: 22/10/2008
Belgium - ASO set for 3 November in Flanders
The Flemish-speaking community of Belgium has confirmed that analogue switch-off will take place on Monday, 3 November 2008.
:: 21/10/2008
United Kingdom - Channel Five to join MUX B in rural areas
The broadcaster Channel Five has signed an agreement with BBC for its landmark television services, Channel 5, to be made available on Multiplex B.
:: 21/10/2008
Poland - Planning for DSO organisation begins
The head of the communications regulator UKE, Anna Strezynska, has called for the establishment of an organisation to lead digital switchover.
:: 20/10/2008
France - 2 DVB-H networks planned after ASO
According to the digital action plan France Numérique 2012, it is expected that 13 multiplexes will be made available for DTT services once analogue switch-off is completed in November 2011.
:: 20/10/2008
Hungary - Work underway to prepare for 1 December launch
The network operator Antenna Hungaria has announced that the free-to-air DTT platform, MinDig TV, will launch on 1 December.
:: 20/10/2008
The government has presented its action plan for a digital future. The plan, entitled "France numérique 2012", was presented by the State Secretary for the development of the digital economy, Eric Besson.
:: 20/10/2008
Belgium - Flanders to tender DTT license
The government for the Flemish-speaking community in Belgium has announced plans to invite candidates to tender for a DTT license.
:: 20/10/2008
Portugal - PT allocated pay-DTT license
The communications regulator Anacom has confirmed the decision of the review board to allocate the pay-DTT frequency license to Portugal Telecom (PT).
:: 20/10/2008
Poland - Invitation to tender for DTT Mux expected by end Oct
According to the communications regulator UKE, the invitation to tender for a DTT multiplex license will likely be opened by the end of the month.
:: 19/10/2008
France - HD/DTT launch officially set for 30 October
The official launch of HD/DTT services is expected to take place on 30 October at 15.30. The platform will include HD TF1, France 2 HD, Arte HD, Canal+ HD and M6 HD.
:: 17/10/2008
Italy - Airplus to enter pay-DTT market
Telecom Italia has agreed to sell its pay- per-view DTT services to Airplus TV, a Swedish pay-DTT service operator.
:: 17/10/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom allocates 2 HD/DTT licenses
Ofcom has decided to allocate HD/DTT licenses to Channel 4 (with Welsh service S4C) and ITV. A third HD/DTT license has already been reserved for the BBC.
:: 17/10/2008
United Kingdom - Discovery to join DTT platform
Discovery Communications has secured a slot on the Freeview platform. It will replace Channel Five on MUX A since Channel Five will be joining the multiplex reserved for public service broadcasters.
:: 16/10/2008
Italy - Europe 7 to finally broadcast terrestrial service
Europe 7 will finally be able to broadcast its services. The public service broadcaster RAI UNO will make frequencies available using frequencies it no longer needs.
:: 16/10/2008
Slovakia - Legal challenge mounted against DTT licensing procedure
The DTT licensing procedure has been halted by the Bratislava District Court following legal action taken by the broadcast network operator Telecom Corp.
:: 16/10/2008
France - New local DTT services in four regions
The CSA has issued local DTT licenses to broadcasters in the regions of Nîmes, Manosque, Les Sables-d’Olonne, and La Roche-sur-Yon.
:: 15/10/2008
Lithuania - More than double subscribers in 3 month period
The pay-DTT service provider TEO has announced that it has more than doubled the number of subscribers to its service.
:: 15/10/2008
United States - 20% of households not fully prepared for ASO
Latest research published by Nielsen shows that nearly 20% of households are either partially or incompletely ready for analogue switch-off.
:: 14/10/2008
United Kingdom - Care homes to benefit from DSO Help Scheme
The government has announced that all residents in residential care homes (nursing homes) will be able to benefit from the Switchover Help Scheme.
:: 13/10/2008
Australia - ASO timetable ready for approval
The government's Digital Switchover Taskforce has presented the Communications Minister Stephen Conroy with a report proposing a timetable for analogue switch-off.
:: 13/10/2008
United Kingdom - 18 million TV sets need to be converted to digital
Latest research published by Digital UK shows that 30% of all television sets in the United Kingdom have yet to be converted to digital.
:: 10/10/2008
Spain - 12 million DTT receivers sold
According to the latest figures published by Impulsa TDT, 12.4 million DTT receivers have been sold.
:: 10/10/2008
United Kingdom - Updates to the D-Book
The DTG has announced that additions have been made to the D-Book in order to support broadcaster triggered retuning.
:: 10/10/2008
Poland - UKE invites candidates to bid for DVB-H license
The electronic communications regulator UKE has formally invited candidates to tender for a national 8 MHz frequency channel intended for the provision of DVB-H services valid until 31 December 2023.
:: 10/10/2008
Italy - Tivù to market free-to-air services
The broadcasters RAI, Mediaset and Telecom Italia Media have announced plans to launch the marketing platform Tivù.
:: 09/10/2008
United Kingdom - Arqiva to auction DTT service slot
The DTT multiplex operator Arqiva is inviting candidates to bid for a newly available television programme service slot on one of its two multiplexes (C & D).
:: 08/10/2008
Italy - ASO organisation holds first meeting
The body responsible for leading digital switchover, Comitato Nazionale Italia Digitale (CNID), held its first meeting in Rome.
:: 07/10/2008
France - Ad spent grows by 92% on DTT platform
According to the research organisation Yacast, advertisers spent a total of €78.5 million in September on the DTT platform.
:: 07/10/2008
Qatar - Launch of DVB-H services using OMA Bcast SCP
Nokia Siemens Networks has signed an agreement with the telecom provider Qatar Telecom (Qtel) for the launch of commercial DVB-H services using the OMA BCast Smart Card Profile technology.
:: 07/10/2008
France - AB1 may return pay-DTT service license
In a sign that bodes badly for the French pay-DTT platform, the pay service AB1 is considering to withdraw from the platform. It may decide to return its pay-DTT service license to the broadcast regulator.
:: 07/10/2008
Germany - Regulators to rescind DVB-H license
Media regulators have confirmed plans to revoke the DVB-H license allocated to Mobile 3.0 should the company not voluntarily return the license.
:: 07/10/2008
Cyprus - DSO to be completed by 2011
The government has announced plans to complete digital switchover by 2011.
:: 06/10/2008
Germany - DTT service slot availble in the north
The media regulator for Hamburg, Schleswig-Holstein (MA HSH) is inviting candidates to tender for an available DTT service slot.
:: 06/10/2008
United Kingdom - EC unlikely to approve aid for Channel 4
The European Commission is unlikely to approve the £14 million aid given to the public service broadcaster Channel 4. This aid had been given to help the broadcaster cover the costs associated with digital switchover.
:: 05/10/2008
Spain - 37% of homes access DTT services
Data published by the National Institute of Statistics (INE) show that 37.4% of households access DTT services.
:: 05/10/2008
Since the launch last April of the free-to-air DTT service, Freeview HD, 27,319 HD capable receivers have been sold.
:: 03/10/2008
United Kingdom - Over 32 million DTT receivers sold since DTT launch
Figures published by Ofcom show that 9.7 million homes rely on the DTT platform for their primary television viewing.
:: 02/10/2008
Poland - High interest in DTT platform
According to the communications regulator UKE, 10 service providers have expressed an interest in offering services on the second DTT multiplex.
:: 02/10/2008
United Kingdom - Strong growth anticipated for Freeview
The marketing organisation overseeing the Freeview platform anticipates strong future growth given the launch of new products and services.
:: 02/10/2008
France - Multiplexes recomposed to allow for HD/DTT launch
The composition of services within multiplexes has changed slightly in order to make capacity available for the launch of HD services on the DTT platform. These changes will come into effect on 30 October.
:: 02/10/2008
France - Nearly 58% of households access digital TV
The CSA, together with France Télé numérique and the government, have set up an organisation to track digital penetration among television viewers.
:: 01/10/2008
United Kingdom - Digital UK announces dates for DSO in Border TV region
Digital UK has announced the dates for the completion of analogue switch-off in the Border TV region. This region will begin switch-off on 6 November.
:: 30/09/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom opens second consultation on BSkyB pay DTT service
Ofcom has opened a consultation on the proposal by BSkyB to launch pay-DTT services. Ofcom has stated that it is willing to allow for such a launch but only under certain conditions.
:: 29/09/2008
Portugal - PT awarded pay-DTT license for second time
Airplus TV will appeal against a second decision to award the pay-DTT license to Portugal Telecom (PT).
:: 26/09/2008
Hong Kong - DTT penetration reaches 20%
Approximately 500,000 households are watching television using the DTT platform. Ths represents approximately 20% of all television households.
:: 25/09/2008
Italy - DTT pentration reaches 29%
The latest figures published by DGTVi show that 6.3 million households rely on the DTT platform. This represents a penetration of 29% of television households.
:: 25/09/2008
Italy - Government approves DSO plan
The government has published the timetable for analogue switch-off. The process will take place across 16 regions between 2009 and 2012.
:: 24/09/2008
Australia - Government introduces bill on ASO
The government has introduced legislation introducing a timetable for analogue switch-off. The process will take place region-by-region and be completed in 2013.
:: 23/09/2008
Spain - DTT services may be offered by satellite
Free-to-air satellite services may be offered to viewers to allow for the reception of services in areas where DTT coverage is not available.
:: 22/09/2008
Australia - Launch of new services on DTT platform
The three commercial broadcasters on the terrestrial platform are preparing to each launch a new DTT service in standard-definition in early 2009.
:: 22/09/2008
Czech Republic - Ocko to join DTT platform
The television programme service Ocko has announced that it will apply for a DTT license as guaranteed in recent amendments to the broadcast legislation.
:: 22/09/2008
Ireland - Government should set up DSO body
The head of Boxer DTT has recommended that the government appoint a body to oversee digital switchover in Ireland to ensure a smooth transition.
:: 21/09/2008
Spain - HD/DTT services in Aragon
The regional Catalan broadcaster TV3 has ended its HD/DTT transmissions in order to provide the necessary capacity for the broadcast of a new television programme service, Canal 9.
:: 19/09/2008
Poland - UKE to evaluate interest in DTT license
The communications regulator UKE is inviting candidates to register their interest in the operation of one DTT multiplex. Submissions must be made by 1 October.
:: 18/09/2008
Boxer includes MHEG-5 in receiver specification
The DTT service operator Boxer will include the MHEG-5 format for interactivity in its technical specification for DTT receivers.
:: 18/09/2008
Czech Republic - TV Nova to launch new service in 2009
The commercial broadcaster TV Nova has announced the launch of a new service in the first half of 2009 which it would like to make available on the DTT platform.
:: 18/09/2008
Sony launches PlayTV for DTT reception
Sony has announced that it will launch PlayTV for its PlayStation 3. PlayTV allows users to access
free-to-air DTT services.
:: 16/09/2008
Austria - ASO continues in 11 regions
Analogue switch-off has been completed on 16 September in 11 regions, including Dalaas, Gaschurn, Lech and Raggal/Kreuzbühel.
:: 16/09/2008
Germany - Three applicants for 1 DTT license in Hesse
Three broadcasters have applied for a license on the DTT platform in Hesse (Rhine-Main area). They include Bibel TV, ERF, and RegioOnline.
:: 16/09/2008
Norway - Strong growth for RiksTV
The pay-DTT service operator RiksTV has reported that it has acquired 250,000 subscribers in the first year following its service launch.
:: 15/09/2008
Switzerland - BAKOM opens consultation on DVB-T licenses
The communications regulator BAKOM has opened a consultation on DVB-T services in the regions of the Upper Valais and Grison. These are the only two regions in Switzerland that offer commercial DVB-T services to viewers.
:: 13/09/2008
United Kingdom - BBC set to launch HD/DTT services
The BBC has announced its plans to launch HD services on the DTT platform in November 2009 using the DVB-T2 standard and the MPEG-4 AVC compression format.
:: 12/09/2008
United Kingdom - BSkyB drops pay-DTT plans
BSkyB has decided to drop its plans to launch pay services on the DTT platform. It has blamed the communications regulator Ofcom for delaying the regulatory process.
:: 12/09/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom appoints Adjudicator for broadcast transmission services
Following the decision by the Competition Commission to allow the merger between Arqiva and National Grid Wireless, OFCOM has appointed an Adjudicator for Broadcast Transmission Services.
:: 11/09/2008
Spain - Broadcasters warn about revenue on DTT platform
Broadcasters on the analogue terrestrial platform have warned against the proliferation of new services on the DTT platform.
:: 11/09/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom hires Morgan Stanley to promote spectrum auction
The communications regulator Ofcom has appointed the investment bank Morgan Stanley to promote international interest in its auction of frequencies in the UHF band.
:: 10/09/2008
Pace announces development of a DVB-T2 receiver
Equipment manufacturer Pace has announced the development of a DVB-T2 set-top box capable of receiving and displaying DVB-T2 content.
:: 09/09/2008
Netherlands - 10,000 DVB-H subscribers
KPN has announced that it now has 10,000 DVB-H subscribers. Services were first launched in June 2008.
:: 09/09/2008
France - HD tuner for 66 +cm TV sets as of 1 December 2009
Manufacturers will need to include an MPEG-4 AVC HD tuner in all television sets sized 66 cm (26 inches) and above as of 1 December 2009.
:: 08/09/2008
Finland - Digita testing VOD services
The network operator Digita is testing video-on-demand (VOD)services on the DTT platform. Digita is using a VOD test platform from the Swedish company VODvision.
:: 08/09/2008
Spain - DTT penetration reaches 36%
According to figures published by Sofres, DTT penetration has reached 36.9% of households. Sales of DTT receivers continue strongly with over 1 million receivers sold in the summer period.
:: 08/09/2008
United States - Analogue switch-off completed in Wilmington, NC
Wilmington, North Carolina completed analogue switch-off on 8 September, becoming the first city in the United States to do so. It participated in the only switch-off trial to organised by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) prior to nationwide switch-off on 17 February 2009.
:: 05/09/2008
France - MR5 to operate multiplex with HD/DTT services
The CSA has delivered the authorisation to the operator Multiplex R5 (MR5), allowing it to use the frequencies necessary for the operation of multiplex R5.
:: 05/09/2008
Hungary - DTT launch set for December
The network operator Antenna Hungaria has signed its contract with the National Communications Authority for the license to operate 5 DTT multiplexes.
:: 03/09/2008
Finland - PlusTV to manage Canal+ DTT offer
The pay-DTT service operator PlusTV will manage Canal Digital's pay-DTT service, ParempiTV, as of 1 October.
:: 03/09/2008
France - DTT broadcasters TMC and W9 reach profitability
Among the new television programme services on the DTT platform, TMC and W9 have reached profitability.
:: 03/09/2008
Russia - Announcement of DSO roadmap delayed
Plans by the Information Technology and Communication Ministry to issue its digital switchover roadmap has been postponed.
:: 03/09/2008
Germany - 3.9 million DTT households
The penetration of digital television continues to grow with digital services available in 46.7% of all television households compared with 39.9% last year.
:: 02/09/2008
Spain - Government wants consensus for pay-DTT services
The government has clarified its position regarding the launch of pay-DTT services.
:: 02/09/2008
Czech Republic - Telecom operators interested in mobile TV
The mobile telecom operators T-Mobile, Vodafone and Telefonica O2 are planning to set up a joint company with the aim of bidding for a mobile TV license.
:: 01/09/2008
United Kingdom - BBC demos end-to-end DVB-T2
The BBC has announced the successful demonstration of a live end-to-end DVB-T2 transmission. The BBC developed a prototype DVB-T2 demodulator capable of receiving DVB-T2 signals.
:: 01/09/2008
United Kingdom - Official approval for Arqiva/NGW merger
The Competition Commission has approved the merger of the broadcast network operators Arqiva and National Grid Wireless (NGW).
:: 29/08/2008
Slovenia - Pop TV and Kanal A to join Mux A
Two commercial broadcasters, Pop TV and Kanal A, will provide their services on multiplex A. This multiplex has been allocated to the public service broadcaster RTV SLO.
:: 29/08/2008
Poland - Interest high in DTT platform
Interest in the DTT platform is high with 14 broadcasters applying to the Office of Electronic Communications (UKE) for DTT licenses on multiplex A.
:: 29/08/2008
Colombia - Selection of the DVB-T standard
Columbia has selected the DVB-T standard for its DTT platform. It becomes the second country in Latin America, after Uruguay, to opt for DVB-T.
:: 27/08/2008
France - Canal+ begins its HD/DTT services
The commercial broadcaster Canal+ launched its pay HD service on the DTT platform on 9 August to coincide with the Summer Olympic Games.
:: 25/08/2008
Slovenia - HD/DTT services from the PSB
The public service broadcaster RTV Slovenia provided viewers with an HD version of the Olympics on the terrestrial platform.
:: 23/08/2008
Oman - Consultation opened on DVB-H services
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has opened a public consultation on mobile television services using the DVB-H standard.
:: 20/08/2008
Slovakia - Tender opened for two DTT multiplexes
The Telecom Office (TU SR) is inviting candidates to tender for licenses to operate two DVB-T multiplexes.
:: 19/08/2008
Hungary - DTT services to launch by end of year
The Parliament has approved the decision by the communications regulator NCAH to allocate the DTT license to the broadcast network operator Antenna Hungaria.
:: 19/08/2008
Slovenia - Invitation to tender for MUX B opened
The communications regulator APEK is inviting candidates to tender for a license to operate the DTT multiplex B. Candidates must submit their applications by 25 August.
:: 18/08/2008
Czech Republic - TV Nova and Prima TV agree to DSO
The two commercial broadcasters with services on the analogue terrestrial platform, Prima TV and TV Nova, have agreed to cooperate in digital switchover.
:: 14/08/2008
United Kingdom - Two applicants for HD/DTT services
The communications regulator Ofcom has received two applications for licenses to broadcast television services on Multiplex B. Candidates are Channel 3 (ITV) and Channel Four.
:: 14/08/2008
United Kingdom - Technical upgrade disables some set-top boxes
Technical upgrades made to the DTT transmission network have caused some set-top boxes to stop working. This only affects set-top boxes purchased 4-5 years ago prior to the introduction of the digital tick logo.
:: 13/08/2008
Belgium - TDF and Norkring interested in VRT's broadcast network
The network operators TDF and Norkring have been asked to submit their final bids for the VRT transmission network by the middle of September.
:: 13/08/2008
Netherlands - Slight increase in pay-DTT subscription cost
According to Broadband TV News, Digitenne will increase its monthly subscription fee for the DTT platform. The fee will increase to €7.50 from €6.95.
:: 12/08/2008
South Africa - Government to spend over R3 billion for DSO
The government is expected ot spend over R3 billion (€260 million) to help with digital switchover. Funding will be made available for network upgrades and subsidies for low-income households.
:: 12/08/2008
Spain - DTT coverage reaches 89% of population
DTT services are available to 89.15% of the population since the end of July. This is a 3.8% increase in population coverage compared with last year.
:: 11/08/2008
Czech Republic - DTT services to reach 95% of population
The public service broadcaster Czech Television (CT) has signed an agreement with the incumbent network operator, Radiokomunikace, for the transmission of its DTT services.
:: 08/08/2008
United Kingdom - DTG updates D-Book
The DTG has announced the release of the D-Book 5.01. This updated version incorporates amendments to the chapter on Remote Control.
:: 08/08/2008
Austria - DVB-H coverage expanded
The network operator Media Broadcast has announced that it has expanded its coverage of DVB-H services with launches in the cities of Bregenz, Eisenstadt, Graz, Linz and St Pölten.
:: 08/08/2008
Poland - TVP trials HD/DTT service
The public service broadcaster TVP has launched a new service in high-definition, TVP HD. The new service will initially provide coverage of the Summer Olympics.
:: 07/08/2008
South Africa - Launch of DTT services set for 1 November
The government has approved plans for digital switchover. As part of the plan, the government will fund 70% of the cost of set-top boxes for 5 million of the poorest television households.
:: 07/08/2008
Slovakia - Launch of new service on trial DTT platform
The new television programme service STV3 (Trojka) launched on 8 August. The service offers sports content, some of which is broadcast in HD quality.
:: 07/08/2008
Greece - DTT launch set for 1 November
The government has announced that DTT services will officially launch on 1 November 2008. Services should be available nationwide and offer content from both the public service broadcaster ERT and commercial broadcasters.
:: 07/08/2008
Germany - DTT programme license available in Hesse
The DTT platform in the region of Rhine-Main is expected to expand. Media authorities have invited candidates to tender for one television programme service available on one multiplex.
:: 06/08/2008
Poland - UKE opens consultation on mobile TV plans
The Office of Electronic Communications (UKE) has opened a consultation on its plans to launch mobile television services using the DVB-H standard. The consultation will last for a 30-day period.
:: 06/08/2008
United Kingdom - SDN to auction multiplex capacity
The multiplex operator SDN has announced that it will auction capacity on its multiplex, MUX A, for one television programme service.
:: 05/08/2008
Spain - 2 MUXes for RTVE after ASO
Following analogue switch-off in 2010, the government will allocate two multiplexes to the public service broadcaster RTVE. This will allow RTVE to make 8 free-to-air television programme services available to viewers.
:: 04/08/2008
France - 56% digital TV penetration
According to research published by TDF, 29.85% of households access DTT services. It is the fastest growing digital platform in France and represents 42% of all digital households.
:: 04/08/2008
Croatia - DTT services to launch in September
The government has published its Strategy for Digital Switchover which calls for the launch of DTT services on 1 September 2008. Analogue switch-off is expected to be completed by 1 January 2011.
:: 02/08/2008
Spain - Plans for pay-DTT services unlikely in near future
Plans to launch pay-DTT services in Spain have been put on hold. The deputy Prime Minister, Maria Teresa Fernandez de la Vega, has announced that the government has "no plans" to allow for the launch of pay-DTT services.
:: 01/08/2008
Italy - 9 new services to join DTT platform
The Communications Authority (AgCom) has published the list of broadcasters expected to receive a license for DTT services. The regulator received a total of 25 bids for nine DTT licenses.
:: 31/07/2008
France - 92% coverage by end of 2009
The broadcast regulator Conseil supérieur de l’audiovisuel (CSA) has announced the 71 regions where DTT services will be launched in the first half of 2009.
:: 31/07/2008
Italy - Revenue generated by pay-DTT services increases
Third quarter results published by the commercial broadcaster Mediaset show that its pay-DTT service, Mediaset Premium generated a revenue of €59.3 million.
:: 31/07/2008
Spain - Government allocates €8.7 million for ASO
The government has allocated €8.72 million fund 32 analogue switch-off projects. These projects will extend the population coverage of DTT services.
:: 30/07/2008
Germany - DVB-H services to end
Mobile 3.0, which holds the national license to provide DVB-H services, is set to close down. Trial services had begun in four cities in June 2008 with a full launch expected by the end of the year.
:: 30/07/2008
France - Coverage increases to 87%
DTT services be available to 87% of the population following the launch of four new DTT transmission sites on 1 August.
:: 30/07/2008
Poland - Delays to DVB-H tender expected
Changes to the terms of the planned DVB-H licnese are likely following the coordination between the Office of Electronic Communications (UKE) and the National Broadcasting Council (KRRiT).
:: 30/07/2008
Portugal - Anacom to review pay-DTT license bids
Anacom is currently in the process of reviewing its decision to award the license to operate the pay-DTT platform. Portugal Telecom (PT) had been selected over Airplus TV.
:: 29/07/2008
United States - 9% of household unprepared for ASO
A recent survey published by Nielsen shows that 9.3% of television households are not yet prepared for analogue switch-off.
:: 29/07/2008
Ireland - DTT launch expected in September 2009
Initial plans by Boxer to launch pay-DTT services in January may be delayed to coincide with the launch of the free-to-air multiplex operated by the public service broadcaster RTE.
:: 28/07/2008
Czech Republic - ASO begins in Pilsen
The public service broadcaster Czech Television (CT) has switched off its analogue channel CT2 in the city of Pilsen, located near the border with Germany.
:: 25/07/2008
Spain - Full coverage in Catalonia by July 2009
All residents in the region of Cataloñia will be able to access DTT services by July 2009.
:: 25/07/2008
Hungary - Antenna Hungaria awarded DTT license
The license to operate 5 DTT multiplexes has been awarded to the network operator Antenna Hungaria. The license is valid for a 12-year period.
:: 24/07/2008
Ireland - DTT trial ends on 1 August
The government has announced that its DTT trial will officially end on 1 August. The trial had been launched in August 2006.
:: 24/07/2008
Ireland - Official adoption of MPEG-4 AVC
The Minister of Communications, Eamon Ryan has officially announced that the MPEG-4 AVC compression format will be used for the DTT platform in Ireland.
:: 24/07/2008
Spain - ASO completed in Soria
The region of Soria became the first region in Spain to complete digital switchover. The analogue terrestrial platform was switched off on 23 July and affects 51,000 inhabitants.
:: 23/07/2008
Lithuania - 6600 DTT subscribers
The incumbent telecom and broadcast network operator TEO has announced it has 6600 subscribers to its GALA DVB-T service.
:: 23/07/2008
France - Parliament recommends dividend for broadcasters
The Parliamentary commission examining the use of the digital dividend available after the completion of digital switchover has submitted its recommendations to the Prime Minister.
:: 23/07/2008
Netherlands - Number of DTT households increases
The pay-DTV service provider, KPN, has announced that it had 636,000 subscribers at the end of June compared with 553,000 subscribers at the end of March.
:: 22/07/2008
France - First ASO trial begins
The first analogue switch-off trial is set to begin in Coulommiers and its surrounding area. The trial should be completed by early 2009 and analogue services switched off.
:: 22/07/2008
Poland - DVB-T tender expected in September
It can be expected that candidates will be invited to tender for the operation of a DVB-T multiplex and a DVB-H multiplex this year.
:: 22/07/2008
Italy - 8.6 million DTT receivers sold
Since the beginning of the year, 1.4 million DTT receivers have been sold. This brings DTT receiver sales to 8.6 million since the launch of DTT services in 2004.
:: 21/07/2008
Ireland - Boxer awarded pay-DTT license
Boxer DTT Ltd, jointly owned by the Swedish pay-DTT service operator Boxer and the Irish media company Communicorp, has been awarded a 12-year license to operate the pay-DTT platform.
:: 17/07/2008
Australia - Freeview marketing to begin prior to Jan 2009 launch
Marketing for the Australian "Freeview" platform will begin in the next few months. The official platform will launch in January 2009.
:: 17/07/2008
Norway - HD/DTT services for the Olympics
Public service broadcaster NRK plans to provide coverage of the forthcoming Olympic Games in high-definition.
:: 17/07/2008
Poland - TVP has strong interest in DTT platform
The public service broadcaster TVP has signalled its intention to become a leader on the DTT platform. It plans on submitting a bid to operate the second DTT multiplex.
:: 17/07/2008
The communications regulator AgCom has published its annual report which states that 54.3% of households receive digital television services.
:: 17/07/2008
Portugal - Airplus challenges decision on pay-DTT license allocation
Airplus TV has confirmed that it will appeal the preliminary decision to award the pay-DTT license to Portugal Telecom (PT).
:: 16/07/2008
Poland - DVB-H service launch expected in early 2009
It is expected that regulators will invite candidates to tender for DVB-H licenses by the end of the month. This follows from the successful conclusion of frequency usage negotiations with Russia.
:: 14/07/2008
Russia - Government expected to supply DTT receivers to low-income viewers
Government plans for digital switchover are expected to be published by the end of the year.
:: 13/07/2008
Spain - Nearly 11 million DTT receivers sold
In the first five months of the year, 2.7 million DTT receivers were sold, representing 24.7% of all DTT receivers sold since the launch of services.
:: 11/07/2008
United Kingdom - 9.6 million DTT households
The latest figures published by Ofcom show that 87.1% of television households access digital TV services on at least one TV set at the end of March 2008.
:: 10/07/2008
United States - Survey shows 64% terrestrial TV households ready for ASO
A survey conducted between 29 March and 13 May with 5,535 terrestrially dependent households showed that 64% have already taken steps to prepare for analogue switch-off on 17 February 2009.
:: 10/07/2008
Poland - DVB-H delay due to frequency negotiations
The tendering of DVB-H licenses has been delayed due to protracted negotiations with neighbouring countries.
:: 10/07/2008
Spain - RTVE to launch HD service
The public service broadcaster RTVE is preparing to launch two new services in 2010 when analogue switch-off is completed. At this time, RTVE will have 2 DTT multiplexes available for its services.
:: 09/07/2008
Norway - HD-capable MPEG-4 AVC PVR approved for sale
The DTT platform operator Norges Televisjon (NTV) has approved the first PVR-enabled DTT receiver for use in the Norwegian market.
:: 08/07/2008
United Kingdom - Stores with tick provide better DSO information
Research conducted by GfK NOP show that independent retailers who have completed training on digital switchover provide better service to customer enquiring about TV than other retailers.
:: 08/07/2008
France - Gulli launch the Gullibox
The children' service Gulli, available on the DTT platform, is teaming up with the manufacturer Metronic to launch a customised DTT set-top box, the Gullibox.
:: 08/07/2008
Portugal - PT likely to receive license to operate Multiplex A
Anacom has approved the project presented by Portugal Telecom (PT) for the operation of Multiplex A. This multiplex will carry national free-to-air services.
:: 07/07/2008
Spain - Impulsa TDT warns about communal antenna conversions
Impulsa TDT has warned that only half of buildings with communal antennas have been adapted to receiver DTT services. Progess will be necessary in order to reach the 3 April 2010 analogue switch-off date.
:: 06/07/2008
Hong Kong - 2nd phase of DTT roll-out in August
DTT coverage will be expanded in early August to reach 75% of the population.
:: 06/07/2008
Czech Republic - Barrandov TV to launch in January
The television service Barrandov TV will launch on the DTT platform on 11 January 2009. It had previously been expected to launch this summer.
:: 04/07/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom invites multiplex operators to renew licenses
Ofcom has invited the operators of Multiplex A and Multiplex 2 to apply for the renewal of their multiplex licenses. The renewal license will be valid for a 12 year period.
:: 04/07/2008
Estonia - Starman takes full ownership of DTT platform
The pay-DTT platform ZUUMtv is set to become fully owned by cable operator Starman. It had previously been jointly owned by Starman and the network operator Levira.
:: 04/07/2008
France - Plans underway for DTT services in overseas territories
DTT services will launch in the French overseas territories in early 2010. All services will be available using the MPEG-4 AVC compression format.
:: 03/07/2008
Italy - Samsung qualifies for 'bollino bianco'
Samsung has announced that it will sell its iDTVs bundled with SmarDTV's SmarCAM and a Mediaset smart card. Products will be available in early July.
:: 03/07/2008
United Kingdom - Freeview Playback rebrands as Freeview+
Freeview+ will be the new name for DTT products with integrated recording capabilities. Freeview+ replaces Freeview Playback.
:: 03/07/2008
Slovakia - MPEG-4 AVC for DTT platform
According to Broadband TV News, the Slovak Telecom Office (TU SR) has recommended the use of the MPEG-4 AVC compression format for the DTT platform.
:: 02/07/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom invites candidates to tender for MUX B capacity
The communications regulator Ofcom is inviting candidates to tender for licenses on multiplex B. This multiplex will offer HD services using the DVB-T2 specification.
:: 02/07/2008
Spain - Impulsa TDT donates 1000 set-top boxes
Impulsa TDT, the DTT promotions organisation, will distribute 1000 set-top boxes to low-income families in the region of Soria.
:: 02/07/2008
Norway - NTV appeals regulatory decision
The DTT platform operator NTV is appealing the regulatory decision calling for it to make more capacity available its DTT multiplexes to rival operators.
:: 02/07/2008
Czech Republic - CT calls off DTT network tender
According to Broadband TV News, the public service broadcaster CT has called off a tender for the provision of a new DTT network.
:: 02/07/2008
Spain - Telecinco softens pay-DTT stance
Commercial broadcaster Telecinco has softened its position on pay-DTT services. This follows from the government's request that broadcasters present their views on the possible launch of pay-DTT services.
:: 01/07/2008
United Kingdom - West Country switch-off dates announced
Digital UK, the organisation leading digital switchover, has announced the dates for analogue switch-off in Cornwall and parts of Devon.
:: 01/07/2008
Italy - Government wants to complete ASO by 2010
The European Commission (EC) has requested further information from the government regarding the distribution of frequencies on the DTT platform.
:: 01/07/2008
Germany - DTT coverage extended
DTT coverage has been expanded to include the central Lander of Sachsen-Anhalt and Thüringen. An additional 8.9 million viewers can now receive DTT services.
:: 01/07/2008
Lithuania - TEO expands DTT coverage
TEO, the provider of pay-DTT services, has expanded its coverage to 95% of the population. Previously, services had been available to 75% of the population.
:: 01/07/2008
Spain - DTT ad revenue to rise
According to a report published by ZenithMedia, the DTT platform will not be affected by the current economic downturn. Rather, new media, which includes the Internet and DTT, will see a 20% increase in their advertising revenue.
:: 01/07/2008
Ireland - ComReg publishes spectrum strategy report
The regulator ComReg has issued its Spectrum Management Strategy Statement: 2008 - 2010. The document is the result of a consultation held earlier in the year.
:: 01/07/2008
Portugal - PT favoured for DTT license
Anacom has announced the results of its evaluation of applications to operate the commecial DTT platform. Two bidders, Portugal Telecom (PT) and Airplus TV, are vying for a license to operate 5 DTT multiplexes.
:: 30/06/2008
DVB approves DVB-T2 specification
The DVB Steering Board has ratified and published the specification for second generation transmission system for DTT services (DVB-T2).
:: 30/06/2008
Italy - 25 applicants for 12 DTT licenses
The communications regulator AgCom has received 25 applications for the provision of DTT services from 17 media groups. A total of 12 television programme slots are available.
:: 29/06/2008
Germany - DTT services in racetracks
Two racetracks, the Norisring near Nuernberg and the Nuerburgring in the Eiffel region, have each received a DTT license to provide live coverage of their events.
:: 27/06/2008
United Kingdom - BBC begins DVB-T2 trial
The public service broadcaster BBC has begun a trial of the DVB-T2 specification. The specification was approved by the DVB Steering Board at its meeting on 26 June.
:: 26/06/2008
United Kingdom - Government criticized for allowing analogue TV sales
The parliamentary Committee of Public Accounts has issued a report on digital switchover which criticizes the government for allowing the sale of analogue television sets.
:: 25/06/2008
Poland - Cyfrowy Polsat interest in DTT multiplex operation
The satellite operator Cyfrowy Polsat has announced that it may apply for the license to operate one DTT multiplex. Two DTT multiplexes are expected to be launched.
:: 25/06/2008
Spain - AETIC to test interactive services for DTT platform
The Association of Electronic, Telecommunications and Information Technologies (AETIC) has presented its plans to test interactive services on the DTT platform.
:: 25/06/2008
According to a report issued by the National Association of Commercial Broadcasters (NAB), 43.3% of households are equipped to receive DTT services.
:: 24/06/2008
Spain - Government preparing law on mobile TV
The government has announced that it is preparing a law to allow for the introduction of mobile television services.
:: 24/06/2008
The broadcast regulator CSA has announced the 39 sites where DTT services will be launched. Services are expected to begin on 30 June.
:: 24/06/2008
Italy - Planning for ASO underway
The Ministry for Economic Development is expected to present its digital switchover plan by 9 September 2008.
:: 22/06/2008
Digital TV Labs ships EVORA MPEG-4 test suite
Digital TV Labs, digital television testing specialists, has made available the first MPEG-4 AVC test suite.
:: 22/06/2008
ASEAN countries agree to common DTV formats
ASEAN countries have agreed to use a common set of technical specifications for digital television.
:: 19/06/2008
Estonia - Government encourages free-to-air DTT platform
The government is encouraging the two commercial broadcaster on the analogue terrestrial platform, TV3 and Kanal 2, to join the free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 18/06/2008
Ireland - ComReg opens consultation on UHF spectrum
The communications regulator ComReg has opened a public consultation on the award of UHF frequencies in the cities of Cork, Dublin, Galway, Limerick and Waterford.
:: 18/06/2008
Croatia - HRT to launch new services on DTT platform
Public service broadcaster HRT has announced plans to launch 7 new services on the DTT platform.
:: 17/06/2008
Poland - DTT services nearing launch
The Office of Electronic Communications (UKE) and National Broadcasting Council (KRRiT) have announced their plans for DTT services.
:: 17/06/2008
According to Broadband TV News, Romania could tender DTT licenses in 2009. Up to 8 multiplexes will be available for DTT services.
:: 16/06/2008
Spain - Government calls for improved content on DTT platform
The government has made it known that it finds the current quality of content on the DTT platform to be insufficient.
:: 13/06/2008
Slovenia - Government prepares to tender DTT multiplex
Slovenia is expected to issue an invitation to tender for a DTT multiplex license. One DTT multiplex is already available and managed by the public service broadcaster RTV SLO.
:: 13/06/2008
Via Licensing drops MHP licensing fees for FTA broadcasters
Free-to-air broadcasters will not be required to pay MHP license fees. This decision was made by Via Licensing, which represents MHP patent pool members, and communicated to the DVB Project.
:: 11/06/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom to license 'white spaces'
The broadcast regulator Ofcom has published its proposal for awarding licenses to use 'white spaces' that exist between television transmitters. These 'white spaces' can be used to provide low-power services.
:: 11/06/2008
Singapore - Launch of Singapore Digital joint venture
The network operator Broadcast Australia and PGK Media have formed a joint venture, Singapore Digital, that will take over the operation and management of the DVB-H trial in Singapore.
:: 11/06/2008
Poland - HD Olympics on DTTplatform
The public service broadcaster TVP has announced plans to broadcast the upcoming Olympics Games in high-definition on the DTT platform.
:: 11/06/2008
Japan - Government may provide STBs to needy
A Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications commission has recommended providing support for digital switchover to low income households.
:: 10/06/2008
Morocco - 100k DTT receivers sold
Since the launch of DTT services last March, only 100,000 receivers have been sold. Coverage is available to 77% of the population.
:: 10/06/2008
France - Canal+ allocated HD/DTT license
The pay-DTT television service Canal+ will be available in high-definition and replace the existing standard-definition service.
:: 10/06/2008
Spain - Spain and Italy sign DTT cooperation agreement
The DTT organisations in Spain and Italy, Impulsa TDT and DGTVi, have signed a cooperation agreement. The organisations seek to promote digital switchover.
:: 09/06/2008
Spain - PSB popular on DTT platform
The DTT services provided by the public service broadcaster RTVE are proving popular with viewers.
:: 09/06/2008
Austria - DVB-H services launched
DVB-H services have been launched by Media Broadcast and the four main mobile telecom operators, Hutchison, 3G Austria, ONE and mobilkom austria.
:: 09/06/2008
Czech Republic - DTV accessed in 24% of households
According to Mediaresearch, 24.1% of television households access digital television services by the end of March 2008.
:: 08/06/2008
Spain - Digital dividend reserved for broadcasters
The Ministry of Industry has revealed that it is unlikely that spectrum will be available for non-broadcast services following analogue switch-off.
:: 06/06/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom issues proposals for digital dividend allocation
Communications regulator Ofcom has published its proposals for the allocation of the digital dividend. It seeks to promote competition and innovation and allow the widest range of technologies and services to access the spectrum.
:: 06/06/2008
Italy - 3 Italia offers free DVB-H services to customers
DVB-H service provider 3 Italia is offering free mobile television services to its customers.
:: 05/06/2008
Sweden - EC withdraws ECJ case
The European Commission (EC) withdrawn its case against Sweden at the European Court of Justice following amendments made to Swedish broadcast regulation.
:: 05/06/2008
Australia - Government opens consultation on DSO legal framework
The Department of Communications has opened a consultation on digital switchover. It is proposing changes to the current legislative framework to allow for a more flexible approach to digital switchover.
:: 04/06/2008
Poland - Possibility for HD/DTT services
Representatives of the communications regulators KRRiT and UKE have called for the launch of HD services on the DTT platform.
:: 03/06/2008
Poland - DVB-H license tender delayed
The Office of Electronic Communications (UKE) has delayed its invitation to tender for mobile television licenses. The invitation is expected to be issued at the end of June.
:: 02/06/2008
Germany - DVB-H services launched
Pre-commercial DVB-H services have been launched in the cities of Hamburg, Munich, Frankfurt and Hanover. The service is operated by Mobile 3.0 which has been allocated a national license to operate DVB-H services.
:: 02/06/2008
Portugal - Airplus presents its pay-DTT plans
Plans for the pay-DTT platform in Portugal have become more concrete following the presentation by Airplus TV, one of the two candidates vying operate the service.
:: 01/06/2008
Spain - 88% population coverage by August
According to the broadcast network operator Abertis Telecom, DTT services will reach 88% of the population by August 2008. Currently, DTT services are available to 86% of the population.
:: 01/06/2008
Austria - DVB-H services announced
3G Austria has announced its DVB-H service offering. Services will be freely available until the end of the year and thereafter available for a cost of €6 per month.
:: 30/05/2008
Netherlands - Launch of DVB-H services on 5 June
The network (telecom and broadcast) operator KPN has announced that it will launch its DVB-H service, MobileTV, on 5 June.
:: 30/05/2008
Spain - Retailers must inform about digital ready TV sets
Retailers are required to inform consumers if they are purchasing television sets unable to receive DTT services.
:: 29/05/2008
Italy - Rete 4 refused right to retain analogue frequencies
The Parliament has blocked a decree that would have allowed Mediaset channel Rete 4 to keep its analogue frequencies. The government, led by Silvio Berlusconi, had proposed the decree following a recent decision by the European Court of Justice (ECJ).
:: 29/05/2008
Spain - DTT subsidies unlikely
The Secretariat of State for Telecommunications and the Information Society (SETSI) has stated that it will not make subsidies available for the purchase of DTT receivers or antennas.
:: 29/05/2008
Italy - Launch of Disney Channel on pay-DTT platform
Disney has announced that it will make its cornerstone service, The Disney Channel, available on the DTT platform. It will be offered by Mediaset on its pay-DTT platform Premium Gallery.
:: 29/05/2008
Czech Republic - DVB-T2 plans for 2013
The broadcast network operator Ceske Radiokomunikace (CRa) has announced plans to switch to the DVB-T2 specification in 2013.
:: 29/05/2008
Spain - Disney confirmed on free-to-air DTT platform
Disney has confirmed that it will make one of its service, The Disney Channel, available on the free-to-air DTT platform. The broadcast is set to begin on 1 July.
:: 27/05/2008
France - CSA announces services for DVB-H platform
The CSA has announced the 13 television services which will receive licenses to broadcast on the DVB-H platform. A total of 32 candidates had applied for the 13 available slots.
:: 27/05/2008
France - Coulommiers to lead switchover
The CSA has announced that the city of Coulommiers will trial analogue switch-off. The trial will begin with the launch of DTT services in Autumn 2008 and end with analogue switch-off in Spring 2009.
:: 26/05/2008
Ireland - Access services tested on DTT platform
The public service broadcaster RTE is undertaking a trial of access services as part of the ongoing DTT pilot.
:: 26/05/2008
France - DTT penetration reaches 26%
The latest figures published by the network operator TDF show that an increasing number of households are adopting digital services.
:: 26/05/2008
Italy - Over 8 million DTT receivers sold
According to the latest figures published by GfK, a total of 8,069,889 DTT receivers had been sold in Italy by the end of March 2008.
:: 25/05/2008
Poland - DVB-H trial in Krakow
The network operator TP EmiTel has launched a DVB-H trial in Krakow in partnership with telecom operators Centertel, Polkomtel, PTC and T4.
:: 25/05/2008
Italy - Studio Universal may join DTT platform
Spectulation has emerged that Studio Universal may join the DTT platform. This follows from its eviction from the satellite platform operated by Sky Italia.
:: 25/05/2008
Hong Kong - More HD/DTT services to be available
Commercial broadcaster TVB has announced plans to increase HD content available on the DTT platform. As of June, two new HD services will be made available.
:: 25/05/2008
Spain - Free-to-air Disney services?
Disney may make its flagship service, Disney Channel, available on the free-to-air DTT platform. This follows from an agreement between Disney and the Vocento group.
:: 23/05/2008
United States - GAO reports broadcasters ready for DTV
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has issued a positive report on the status of digital switchover in the United States. According to the report, a majority of broadcasters are prepared for the February 2009 analogue switch-off.
:: 23/05/2008
Taiwan - Launch of HD/DTT service
The public service broadcaster PTS has announced the launch of a trial HD service on the terrestrial platform. The pilot began on 16 May and is expected to last one year.
:: 22/05/2008
Poland - New DVB-H trial in Krakow
The network operator TP EmiTel has launched a DVB-H trial in the city of Krakow. Four mobile operators are also participating in the trial, including Centertel, Polkomtel, PTC and T4.
:: 22/05/2008
Italy - Government nixes partial ASO in 2009
The new centre-right government has put forward a proposal to allow the commercial broadcaster Mediaset to keep its analogue frequencies until analogue switch-off is completed in 2012.
:: 22/05/2008
Spain - Government confirms 2010 switch-off
The new Minister of Industry, Miguel Sebastian, has confirmed the current digital switchover plans for Spain. According to the minister, analogue switch-off will take place, as planned on 3 April 2010.
:: 21/05/2008
Morocco - Launch of DVB-H services
DVB-H services have been launched in the region of Rabat / Casablanca. Further service roll-out is expected by the end of the year in major urban centres.
:: 21/05/2008
France - Canal+ tenders for pay-DTT HD license
Canal+ is the only broadcaster on the pay-DTT platform to apply for the one HD license currently available on the pay terrestrial platform.
:: 20/05/2008
France - TV Numeric unveils pay-DTT plans
Pay-DTT operator TV Numeric has formally launched its services following a soft-launch last September. TV Numeric offers 7 pay-DTT services for €8 per month in addition to €5 for rental of the set-top box.
:: 19/05/2008
France - Launch of new DTT sites
The CSA has announced which zones will launch DTT services by 30 June 2008. A total of 25 sites will be launched.
:: 16/05/2008
Portugal - RTP to reduce DTT transmission costs
The public service broadcaster RTP has divulged its agreement with Portugal Telecom (PT) regarding its terrestrial television transmission costs.
:: 16/05/2008
Czech Republic - New service to launch on DTT platform
A continuous news service, Z1, is expected to launch on the DTT platform on 1 June. The service will be available in the cities of Prague, Brno, Ostrava and Plzen.
:: 16/05/2008
United Kingdom - Qualcomm wins L-band auction
OFCOM has announced that the license to use the entire L-band (1452-1492 MHz) has been awarded to Qualcomm following its win of the spectrum auction.
:: 15/05/2008
France - DTT services in Cahors
DTT services are available in the city of Cahors, in the southwestern part of the country, since 15 May.
:: 15/05/2008
Germany - bmco calls for mobile TV regulatory regimes to be put in place
The Broadcast Mobile Convergence Forum (bmco) has published a study on the status of national licensing frameworks for terrestrial mobile television services.
:: 14/05/2008
Ireland - Government proposes new broadcast legislation
A new Broadcasting Bill has been proposed that seeks to consolidate the broadcasting legislation of the past 50 years.
:: 14/05/2008
United Kingdom - Digital UK launches guide for local government
Digital UK has launched an online guide and checklist to help local governments prepare for digital switchover.
:: 14/05/2008
Poland - POT interested in DVB-H
The DTT consortium POT is considering to bid for a DVB-H license. Members of POT include the commercial broadcasters Polsat and TVN.
:: 14/05/2008
Spain - DTT penetration reaches 31.8%
According to the latest information published by Impulsa TDT, 31.85% of households access DTT services.
:: 13/05/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom to assess Picnic TV as part of pay-TV investigation
Ofcom has decided to include the BSkyB and National Grid Wireless (NGW) proposal for pay-DTT services as part of its market investigation of the pay-TV sector.
:: 13/05/2008
Italy - Premium boosts Mediaset's quarterly earnings
Mediaset has announced its earnings for the first quarter of 2008 which show an net revenue growth of 13.9% compared with the first quarter of 2007.
:: 12/05/2008
Sweden - TV4 Sport launches on DTT platform
The sport service TV4 Sport has launched on the DTT platform operated by Boxer. The service is available on Multiplex 5, which offers 70% household coverage.
:: 11/05/2008
Spain - 90% of TVs sold with digital tuner
According to AETIC, the association representing the communication industry, a total of 90% of television sets sold are integrated with a digital tuner.
:: 08/05/2008
United States - Wilmington to trial ASO
Wilmington, North Carolina will the be first city to complete analogue switch-off in the United States. It will participate in an analogue switch off pilot on 8 September 2008.
:: 07/05/2008
United Kingdom - Launch of Freesat
The free-to-air satellite service offered jointly by the BBC and ITV has officially been launched. The platform offers 80 television programme services, expected to increase to over 200 by the end of the year. Some services are in high-definition.
:: 06/05/2008
Estonia - Launch of DVB-H trial
The broadcast network operator Levira has launched a DVB-H trial with the telecom operator EMT. Services are available in Tallin.
:: 06/05/2008
Czech Republic - Possibility for DVB-H license tender
Broadband TV News reports that a tender for a DVB-H license could be issued this summer.
:: 06/05/2008
Spain - UTECA calls on PSBs to limit ads
The Associated Commercial Televisions Union (UTECA) together with other media associations are calling for public service broadcasters to progressively reduce their advertisements in the lead up to digital switchover.
:: 06/05/2008
CITEL includes DVB-T/H in implementation guide
The Inter-American Telecommunication Commission (CITEL) has decided to include DVB-T and DVB-H as official standards within the CITEL implementation guidelines.
:: 05/05/2008
Azerbaijian - DTT services to begin in 2008
DTT services are expected to be launched in the second half of 2008 in the cities of Baku and Ganca. Upgrades to transmission equipment are currently underway.
:: 05/05/2008
Kenya - Launch of DVB-H services
The telecom operator Safaricom, together with DStv Mobile, has launched DVB-H services in the city of Nairobi. Services will be formally launched on 1 June.
:: 02/05/2008
Ireland - Three candidates for DTT license
The Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) has announced that three groups have applied for licenses to operate the commercial DTT multiplexes available.
:: 01/05/2008
Netherlands - DVB-H services to launch by June
KPN board member Baptiest Coopmans has announced that the company will launch DVB-H services in time for the UEFA EURO 2008 Football Championship.
:: 01/05/2008
Australia - Preparations underway for ASO
The Australian government is expected to publish the timetable for analogue switch-off by the end of the year. Analogue switch-off is expected to be completed by 2013.
:: 01/05/2008
Netherlands - Trial of low-power DVB-T broadcasting
The communications regulator Agentschap Telecom given OLAN, the association of Dutch local public broadcasters, approval to run technical trials of DVB-T services using using low-power transmitters to provide local digital services.
:: 30/04/2008
Czech Republic - ASO confirmed for 2011
The Czech government has approved the digital switchover plan published by the regulator Cesky Telekomunikacni(CTU). The plan calls for the completion of digital switchover by 11 November 2011.
:: 29/04/2008
Germany - DVB-T mobile phones launched
Telecom operators Vodafone and T-Mobile have will launch new mobile telephones that can receive DVB-T services. The devices will be provided by LG.
:: 29/04/2008
Czech Republic - Prima TV available in Brno
Commercial broadcaster Prima TV has announced plans to roll-out its DTT service to the city of Brno. Services are expected to be available in the second half of May.
:: 29/04/2008
Netherlands - 10% growth in pay-DTT subscribers
The DTT (and telecom) operator KPN has announced that it had 553,000 television subscribers at the end of March.
:: 28/04/2008
Portugal Telecom (PT) has divulged its plans for DTT services should it be awarded the right to operate DTT services.
:: 25/04/2008
United Kingdom - Digital UK to support retailers
Digital UK has announced new measures to provide support to retailers as they help consumers prepare for analogue switch-off.
:: 25/04/2008
United Kingdom - Freesat launch set for May
Freesat, the free-to-air satellite service modelled on Freeview, is set to launch in early May. It is a joint venture between BBC and ITV.
:: 25/04/2008
France - 17.4 million DTT receivers in homes
According to the latest data from GfK, 17.4 million DTT receivers are now in French television households. This represents a penetration of 37%.
:: 25/04/2008
United Kingdom - Digital UK publishes results of ASO in Whitehaven
Digital UK has published a report with its assessment of digital switchover that took place in Whitehaven at the end of last year.
:: 25/04/2008
Portugal - Two bids received for commercial DTT services
The communications regulator Anacom has announced that it has received two bids for the available DTT licenses.
:: 24/04/2008
Hungary - 2 bidders for DTT license
The National Communications Authority of Hungary (NCAH) has announced that it received two bids for its DTT licenses. The license allows for the operation of 5 DTT multiplexes.
:: 24/04/2008
France - Broadcasters want quick ASO
Broadcasters on the terrestrial television platform have called on the government to speed up the digital switchover process. Broadcasters include: TF1, France 2, France 3, Canal Plus, France 5, Arte France and M6.
:: 24/04/2008
Germany - Delay in roll-out of DVB-H services
The DVB-H service provider, Mobile 3.0, has announced that the roll-out of DVB-H services will be slower than initially planned.
:: 22/04/2008
United Kingdom - O2 drops out of L-band auction
Telecom operator O2 has pulled out of the upcoming L-Band (1452-1492 MHz) spectrum auction. It had initially been one of the nine potential bidders.
:: 22/04/2008
Belgium - Interest in VRT transmission network
Plans for VRT, the public service broadcaster for the Flemish-speaking community, to sell its transmission network have started to take shape. Media reports have stated that five companies have expressed interest in buying the network.
:: 21/04/2008
United Kingdom - Strong sale of flat-panel displays
According to the latest research published by GfK, nearly 3 million flat-panel displays were sold in the three months to the end of February. This is an increase of 500,000 compared with the same period last year.
:: 21/04/2008
Italy - AgCom to tender new DTT licenses
AgCom, the communications regulator, will invite candidates to tender for available capacity on several DTT multiplexes. Approximately 40% of capacity on the multiplexes operated by RAI, Mediaset and La7 will be available to new broadcasters.
:: 20/04/2008
United Kingdom - Nine bidders for L-Band frequencies
Ofcom has published the list of qualified bidders for spectrum in the L-Band (1452-1492 MHz). Ofcom is making available 15 channels sized at 1.7MHz and 1 channel sized at 12.5MHz.
:: 18/04/2008
Switzerland - DVB-H launch set for 13 May
Swisscom has announced that it will launch its DVB-H services on 13 May. Viewers will be able to access 20 television programme services for 16 CHF per month or 2 CHF per day.
:: 18/04/2008
Portugal - PT and Media Capital interest in DTT licenses
Portugal Telecom and Media Capital are thought to be in discussions to launch a joint bid for DTT multiplex licenses. Candidates have until 22 April to submit their bids.
:: 18/04/2008
United Kingdom - West Country to begin ASO in April 2009
Digital UK has announced that the West Country TV region will begin analogue switch-off on 8 April 2009. At this date, analogue transmissions from the Beacon Hill transmitter group will end.
:: 17/04/2008
France - Ad-spending grows on DTT platform
Research from Yacast shows that the amount of money spend on advertisement on the DTT platform has grown. In the first quarter of 2008, ad-spending doubled compared with 2007.
:: 16/04/2008
France - CSA publishes synthesis of ASO consultation
Following its consultation on analogue switch-off, the CSA has published a synthesis of the 80 responses received. Based on these responses, the CSA recommends that analogue switch-off begin in 2009.
:: 16/04/2008
Hungary - Pannon interested in DTT license
The mobile telecom operator Pannon is said to be interested in tendering for the available DTT license. The network operator Antenna Hungaría has also expressed its interest in the DTT license.
:: 11/04/2008
Italy - Freesat service discussions underway
Public service broadcaster RAI and commercial broadcaster Mediaset have begun discussions on making their DTT services available on the satellite platform.
:: 11/04/2008
Poland - TVP undertakes further DTT trials
The public service broadcaster TVP has begun a DTT trial in the Lubuskie region, near the border with Germany.
:: 10/04/2008
Italy - Development of HD/DTT guidelines
The DGTVi, the association for the development of DTT services, and the Italian HD Forum, have agreed to put together an Italian specification for HD services on the DTT platform.
:: 10/04/2008
United States - FCC fines retailers for selling analogue TV sets
The FCC has imposed fines on several retailers for selling television sets without a digital tuner. In preparation for analogue switch-off, retailers are legally obliged to sell television sets with a digital tuner.
:: 10/04/2008
Australia - ASO confirmed for 2013
Communications Minister Stephen Conroy has confirmed plans to complete digital switchover by 2013. Approximately 40% of households access digital television services.
:: 09/04/2008
Australia - ACMA publish DTV report
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has published key findings on the adoption of digital television market in its Digital television in Australian homes 2007 report .
:: 09/04/2008
Czech Republic - Z1 to launch on DTT platform
The broadcaster Z1 has received its DTT license from the Broadcasting Council RRTV. It is expected to launch services within the next two months.
:: 09/04/2008
Austria - ORS to support DVB-H roll-out
Media Broadcast, which holds the license to operate the DVB-H platform, has formed an agreement with the network operator ORS for the prompt roll-out of mobile television services.
:: 09/04/2008
Taiwan - Broadcasters seeks mobile TV cooperation
Four of the five broadcasters trialling mobile television services have proposed working together in the operation of a mobile television platform. This proposal has been made directly to the National Communications Commission (NCC).
:: 08/04/2008
Spain - Mediapro plans pay-DTT service
The content provider Mediapro has announced plans to launch a pay-per-view football service to be launched on various television delivery platforms, including the DTT platform.
:: 07/04/2008
Italy - Euro 2008 available on HD/DTT
Public service broadcaster RAI has announced plans to transmit the Euro 2008 Football Championship in high-definition on the DTT platform in the regions of Valle d'Aoste and Sardinia as well as the cities of Rome, Milan and Turin.
:: 07/04/2008
France - New service provider for pay-DTT platform
The service provider Vest@vision will market DTT pay services, TNTop, startiing in mid May. TNTop will offer viewers access to 7 pay-DTT services (Eurosport, Planete, LCI, Canal-j, Paris Premiere and AB1) for €8 per month, in addition to access to the existing free-to-air services.
:: 07/04/2008
Estonia - ASO to take place in 2010
Following the approval of a draft amendment to the Broadcasting Act, analogue switch-off is set to take place in June 2010. This is 18 months earlier than previously announced.
:: 06/04/2008
Spain - 9 million DTT receivers sold
According to information published by Impulsa TDT, 9 million DTT receivers have been sold in Spain. Viewership on the DTT platform represents 12% of all television households.
:: 04/04/2008
Ireland - Joint bid for 3 DTT multiplexes
A consortium comprising the telcom operator Eircom and the broadcasters TV3 and Setanta Sports will bid for the three available commercial DTT multiplexes to be allocated by the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland.
:: 03/04/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom goes ahead with HD/DTT plans
Ofcom has confirmed its plans to launch HD services on the DTT platform without the allocation of further frequencies. This plan has been criticized by the Digital Television Group (DTG) industry association.
:: 03/04/2008
Australia - Launch of $40 million DTT ad campaign
Broadcasters providing free-to-air services on the DTT platform have announced plans to launch an AUS $40 million advertising campaign. The campaign is set to launch in the middle of May.
:: 02/04/2008
Spain - Satellie used to augment DTT coverage
In the autonomous region of Cantabria, satellite will be used to complement DTT coverage. Viewers outside of the DTT coverage area will be able to access the same services as on the DTT platformm using satellite.
:: 02/04/2008
United Kingdom - EC opens enquiry into DSO aid for Channel 4
The European Commission (EC) has officially opened an enquiry into the decision by UK authorities to grant aid to its public service broadcaster Channel 4. The EC will determine whether or not this aid violates EC state aid rules.
:: 31/03/2008
Licensing conditions for DVB-H underway
The establishment of the licensing conditions for DVB-H is underway under the aegis of Sisvel. The essential patent holders for DVB-H have agreed on key points and expect to issue final licensing terms this summer.
:: 30/03/2008
Sweden - Viasat allocated two DTT licenses
The broadcaster Viasat, part of the Modern Times Group (MTG), has been allocated two DTT licenses by the Radio & TV Authority (Radio-och TV Verket). These services will be available on a 6th DTT multiplex that will roll-out this year.
:: 29/03/2008
Austria - Launch of DTT services in new areas
The coverage area of DTT services will be extended on 31 March. Viewers in the regions of Oberösterreich, Salzburg, Steiermark, Niederösterreich and Tyrol will be able to access DTT services.
:: 28/03/2008
Portugal - New free-to-air service for DTT platform
Portugal is preparing to launch a fifth free-to-air television service that will be available on the DTT platform.
:: 27/03/2008
United Kingdom - 27 million DTT receivers sold
Since the launch of the Freeview platform in October 2002, 27 million DTT receivers have been sold. Of these 10.2 million were sold in 2007.
:: 27/03/2008
United Kingdom - Nearly 87% of households access DTV
The latest figures published by Ofcom show that 86.7% of households accessed digital television by the end of 2007. This is an increase of 1.6 percentage points compared with September 2007.
:: 27/03/2008
Spain - HD/DTT testing underway
The HD Forum is planning to undertake HD testing on the DTT platform. Both the 720p and 1080i formats will be tested.
:: 27/03/2008
Sweden - RRTV allocates new DTT licenses
The Swedish radio and television authority (RTVV) has announced that 8 national and 9 local television programme services have been allocated licenses for the DTT platform.
:: 27/03/2008
France - CSA invites candidates for local DTT services
The CSA is inviting broadcasters to tender for local DTT licenses in the regions of Bar-le-Duc, Epinal/Vittel, Privas, and Toulon/Hyères.
:: 27/03/2008
Sweden - Boxer to convert towards MPEG-4 AVC
Boxer has announced plans to begin deploying DTT receivers with MPEG-4 AVC capabilities. This is part of its plans to migrate from the MPEG-2 to the MPEG-4 AVC compression format.
:: 27/03/2008
Denmark - Boxer allocated DTT license
The Radio and Television Board has allocated a commercial DTT license to Boxer, a pay-DTT service provider with operations currently in Sweden.
:: 26/03/2008
United Kingdom - SDN to make multiplex capacity available
The multiplex operator SDN will make available a capacity of 1 MB on Multiplex A. The capacity can be used for such digital services as data and radio transmissions.
:: 26/03/2008
Montenegro - DTT pilot set for 2008
Montenegro is preparing for digital switchover. Its broadcast regulator, ARD, has hired consultants to put together plans.
:: 25/03/2008
Hungary - NCAH invites candidates to tender for DTT license
The National Communications Authority of Hungary (NCAH)is making available one DTT license. The license is for the operation of 5 DTT multiplexes.
:: 24/03/2008
Spain - A Fonsagrada begins analogue switch-off
The town of A Fonsagrada will be the first to complete analogue switch-off in Spain. Switch-off has been set for 5 April 2008.
:: 21/03/2008
United States - $19 billion raised in spectrum auction
The FCC raised a total of $19.6 billion in its auction of frequencies in bands IV/V. A total of 1,090 licenses were sold, of which 80% were acquired by Verizon Wireless and AT&T.
:: 20/03/2008
Belgium - KPN interested in offering DTT services
The Dutch DTT service provider (and incumbent telecom operator) KPN has expressed interest in the Belgium DTT platform.
:: 20/03/2008
Poland - Plans to launch mobile TV by end of year
The President of the Office of Electronic Communications (OEC), Anna Strezynska, has confirmed plans to launch mobile television services by the end of the year.
:: 20/03/2008
Italy - RAI to launch RAI Quattro
Public service broadcaster RAI has announced plans to launch RAI Quattro. The new service will be available on the DTT and satellite platforms by the end of June.
:: 18/03/2008
Germany - 7.8 million DTT receivers sold
According to the Deutsche TV-Platform, 7.8 million DTT receivers have been sold since the launch of DTT services in November 2002.
:: 18/03/2008
Spain - Abertis buys stake in Teledifusión Madrid
Leading network operator Abertis has bought an 80% stake of the regional network operator Teledifusión Madrid.
:: 18/03/2008
Nine Network launched its high-definition service, Nine-HD, on 17 March. The new service will basically provide a simulcast of the existing Nine service with only 12 hours per week of different content.
:: 18/03/2008
New Zealand - DTT launch on 2 April
The free-to-air DTT platform, Freeview HD, will launch on 2 April. It aims to be available in over 50,000 homes by June 2009.
:: 17/03/2008
EC approves DVB-H in list of official standards
The European Commission (EC) has decided to add the DVB-H standard to the official EU List of Standards. Member States will be required to encourage the use of DVB-H.
:: 13/03/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom to auction L-band frequencies in April
Communications regulator Ofcom has confirmed plans to auction radio frequencies 1452 - 1492 MHz band, the so-called "L-Band". These frequencies can be used for mobile television services as well as satellite radio.
:: 13/03/2008
Norway - Regulator calls for more DTT competition
The Post and Telecommunications Authority has taken issue with the plans by NTV to allocate its five DTT multiplexes that will be availble after analogue switch-off. NTV holds the license to operate 5 DTT networks.
:: 13/03/2008
Nokia to ship DVB-H enabled devices to all markets
In a presentation at DVB World, Nokia has announced that the DVB-H enabled multimedia device N96 will be shipped to all markets, regardless of the status of DVB-H services.
:: 12/03/2008
Italy - Mediaset reports strong results for pay-per-view service
In its 2007 results, commercial broadcaster Mediaset noted the excellent performance of its pay-per-view service Mediaset Premium. At the end of the year, the service had sold 2,067,000 rechargeable cards.
:: 12/03/2008
Spain - 8.8 million DTT receivers sold since March 2003
According to the latest figures published by Impulsa TDT, 29.2% of households access DTT services. DTT penetration is highest in Madrid, where DTT services are accessed by over 40% of households.
:: 11/03/2008
United Kingdom - 9.7 million DTT products sold in 2007
According to the latest figures published by GfK, 9.7 million Freeview branded products were sold in 2007. This includes both DTT receivers as well as Freeview Playback PVRs.
:: 11/03/2008
United Kingdom - Provisional approval of Arqiva/NGW merger
The UK Competition Commission has provisionally approved the acquisition of National Grid Wireless (NGW) by Arqiva following a detailed investigation.
:: 10/03/2008
Czech Republic - ASO delayed until 11 November 2011
The Czech Telecommunications Office, CTU, has issued its digital switchover plan (TTP). The new plan delays analogue switch-off by one year to 11 November 2011.
:: 10/03/2008
France - Arte to launch in HD on DTT platform
The Franco-German cultural service Arte is set to launch in HD on the French free-to-air DTT platform. The launch is set for 30 October.
:: 08/03/2008
Germany - LfM appeals EC decision
The media regulator for the Land of NorthRhine Westphalia, LfM, has lodged an appeal against the European Commission (EC).
:: 08/03/2008
New Zealand - Services on DTT platform announced
The free-to-air DTT platform, named Freeview, will consist of 11 television and 2 radio programme services. The date for the launch, set for sometime in April, has not yet been announced.
:: 06/03/2008
United Kingdom - Hybrid DVR available from Tiscali
Internet service provider Tiscali UK is making a new digital video recorder service (DVR), Tiscali Plus, available to its customers.
:: 06/03/2008
France - DTT tuner mandation begins
All television sets sold in France must include an MPEG-2 DTT tuner as of 5 March 2008. The law "Télévision du Futur" set the requirement for the MPEG-2 tuner mandation.
:: 05/03/2008
Czech Republic - 12% DTV penetration
According to Mediaresearch, 12% of households accessed digital television services by the end of 2007. Half of these households relied on the DTT platform.
:: 05/03/2008
Australia - Broadcasters to promote DTT
In an attempt to promote DTT services, the leading terrestrial broadcasters are planning to form a "Freeview" consortium. This strategy coincides with the launch of new DTT services.
:: 05/03/2008
United States - FCC issues DSO education order
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued an order requiring pay-TV service operators, broadcasters, retailers and manufacturers to promote digital switchover awareness.
:: 05/03/2008
Brazil - Low take-up of DTT services
DTT services launched three months ago has had limited appeal with viewers. Only 10,000 households in the Greater Sao Paulo area have accessed DTT services.
:: 04/03/2008
Italy - Sardinia to complete ASO in Sept/Oct
The switch-off of the full analogue platform in Sardinia will take place between 1 September 1 and 30 October 2008. Originally, switch-off had been planned for March.
:: 04/03/2008
United Kingdom - Nine out of ten aware of DSO
New research published by Digital UK and OFCOM show that nine out of ten adults are aware of digital switchover. This compares with an awareness of 66% in May 2006.
:: 04/03/2008
Ireland - RTENL invests in DTT network
In anticipation of the launch of DTT services, the broadcast network operator RTENL has invested €120 million in the DTT network. RTENL is a subsidiary of the public service broadcaster RTE.
:: 04/03/2008
Germany - DVB-T handhelds to be launched
Vodafone has showcased its smart phones able to receive DVB-T services at CeBIT. These phones are expected to be launched in Germany.
:: 04/03/2008
Spain - New shopping service on DTT platform
The media group Sogecable has announced plans to launch a home shopping service on the DTT platform. The new service will be called Canal Promo.
:: 04/03/2008
France - DTT authorisation granted to broadcasters in Paris
The DTT services with licenses to broadcast in the region of Paris will launch on 20 March. The services will be available on multiplex Multi 7.
:: 04/03/2008
Peru - Launch of a DVB-H trial
ATV, subsidiary of the media group Albavision has launched a DVB-H trial in Lima, Peru. Viewers are able to access four television programme services.
:: 03/03/2008
Lithuania - Launch of Digital GALA
Network operator TEO LT has officially launched a DTT service named Digital GALA. This launch follows TEO's acquisition of UAB Nacionaline Skaitmenine Televizija, the holder of two DTT broadcast licenses, in January.
:: 03/03/2008
Ireland - BCI publishes multiplex licensing policy
The Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) has published its policy regarding the allocation of licenses for the operation of DTT multiplexes A, B and C.
:: 03/03/2008
Belgium - BIPT opposes planned ASO
The national telecom regulator, BIPT is taking steps to nullify current analogue switch-off plans in the Flemish-speaking part of the country. Analogue switch-off is to be completed by the end of the year.
:: 29/02/2008
Austria - Media & Broadcast to build DVB-H network
The broadcast network operator Media & Broadcast has been allocated a license to build and operate a DVB-H network by KommAustria. French network operator TDF acquired Media & Broadcast, formerly called T-Systems, in early 2008.
:: 28/02/2008
Portugal - Zon Multimedia can participate in DTT platform
According to the communications regulator Anacom, Zon Multimedia SGPS can participate in the pay-DTT platform.
:: 28/02/2008
South Korea - ASO confirmed for 2012
A National Assembly committee responsible for broadcasting and communications has confirmed that analogue switch-off will take place by 31 December 2012.
:: 27/02/2008
CIS countries meeting to discuss DTT launch
A group of CIS countries are meeting to discuss the launch of DTT services in the region. The meeting is taking place this week in Belarus.
:: 27/02/2008
United Kingdom - Less funding needed for digital help schemes
According to the National Audit Office, the BBC has set aside £250 million more than necessary for funding digital switchover programmes.
:: 26/02/2008
France - Reorganisation of DTT multiplexes
The CSA has approved the re-organisation of television programme services on two DTT multiplexes. This will allow for the launch of a new HD service.
:: 26/02/2008
France - CSA makes further local DTT licenses available
In its continual drive to launch local DTT services, the CSA is inviting local broadcasters to tender for DTT licenses in 4 new areas.
:: 26/02/2008
Portugal - Tender for DTT licenses opened
The communications regulator Anacom is inviting candidates to tender for frequency licences to operate DTT multiplexes.
:: 25/02/2008
Italy - Terms of iDTV rebate announced
The Ministry of Communications has released the terms of the tax rebate on television sets with an integrated digital tuner (iDTV).
:: 25/02/2008
Austria - Disagreement over DTT transmission costs
According to local reports, the commercial broadcaster ATV and the network operator ORS are at odds over DTT transmission costs.
:: 25/02/2008
New Zealand - DTT platform launch set for April
The free-to-air DTT service is expected to launch in April, although a definitive date has not been given.
:: 25/02/2008
France - TNTSat accessed by 350k homes
TNTSat, the satellite service that provides viewers with access to the same television programmes as available on the free-to-air DTT platform is now accessed in 350,000 homes.
:: 22/02/2008
Austria - 400,000 DTT set-top boxes sold
By the end of 2007, 400,000 DTT set top boxes have been sold. This figure does not include integrated television sets, portable DTT receivers or DVB-T USB sticks.
:: 22/02/2008
Germany - DVB-H services to be launched in June 2008
The regional media regulator for Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein have formally issued a license for DVB-H services to Mobile 3.0.
:: 21/02/2008
Council of Europe declaration on "digital dividend"
The Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe has issued its declaration on the allocation and management of the "digital dividend" in which it recognises the public value of the dividend.
:: 20/02/2008
Belgium - VRT to sell transmission network
The Flemish public broadcaster, VRT, will sell its terrestrial transmission network following analogue switch-off set to be completed by the end of 2008.
:: 19/02/2008
Switzerland - ASO to be completed on 25 February
Switzerland will complete digital switchover on 25 February when analogue services are switched off in the regions of Valais and the Chablais Vaudois. These are the last two regions which still transmit two analogue channels.
:: 19/02/2008
France - TDF renames T-Systems Media Broadcast
Following its acquisition of the German network operator T-Systems Media & Broadcast, TDF has renamed it Media Broadcast. The company logo is now "Innovation that works".
:: 19/02/2008
Poland - Telecom operators commit to DVB-H
The four leading mobile telecom operators, PTC, Centertel, P4 and Polkomtel, have announced plans to launch DVB-H services. Together, they will invest €100-200 million for the new network.
:: 18/02/2008
France - Digital TV penetration reaches 46.5%
According to the latest research conducted by NPA Conseil, 46.5% of households access digital television services. The growth of the number of digital homes is due in large part to the success of DTT services.
:: 18/02/2008
United Kingdom - Digital Outreach to support digital switchover
Digital UK has announced the launch of a new organisation, Digital Outreach, to support viewers with digital switchover. Digital UK will provide funding of £2.9 million.
:: 15/02/2008
France - Further DTT roll-out planned
The CSA has announced that DTT services will be available in the areas of Amiens, Bar-le-Duc, Saint-Dizier, Blois, Châtellerault and Périgueux by 31 March.
:: 14/02/2008
Czech Republic - DVB-H trial using OMA BCAST Smart Card Profile
T-Mobile Czech Republic has announced plans to launch a DVB-H trial using a OMA BCAST Smart Card Profile system from Nagravision. The trial will evaluate the performance of handsets, SIM cards and headend equipment.
:: 14/02/2008
Poland - Use of MPEG-4 in DTT trials
The public service broadcaster TVP is expected to change the compression format used in its trial in Warsaw. Currently using MPEG-2, the trial will be converted to the MPEG-4 AVC format.
:: 13/02/2008
Spain - Walt Disney takes stake in DTT
The Walt Disney subsidiary for Spain and Portugal has bought a 20% stake in the DTT service Net TV. It is thought to have paid approximately €27 million.
:: 12/02/2008
Austria - Plans to provide HD receiver subsidy
As part of its plans to introduce HDTV services, Austria would like to provide viewers with subsidies to use towards the purchase of HD receivers.
:: 12/02/2008
United States - 5.9 million may lose some TV services after ASO
Research by Centris has shown that 5.9 million television sets will be unable to receive as many services in an all-digital environment compared with an analogue environment.
:: 12/02/2008
Spain - DVB-H launch expected in 2010
DVB-H services are expected to be launched in 2010. The launch is expected to coincide with analogue switch-off, currently set to take place on 3 April 2010.
:: 12/02/2008
Spain - 8 million receivers sold
By the end of 2007, a total of 8 million DTT receivers had been sold. Of the receivers sold in 2007, 62% were integrated into other equipment, especially television sets.
:: 11/02/2008
Nagravision has announced the launch of QTM TV, a pay DTT set-top box for automotive applications. Nagravision has partnered with Quantum and Magnetti Marelli to develop this solution.
:: 11/02/2008
Estonia - Neljas TV to join DTT platform
The DTT service provider and cable operator, Starman, has announced plans to launch its own television programme service on 22 February. The new service has been named Neljas TV (Fourth TV).
:: 11/02/2008
350 million DTT receviers worldwide in 2013
According to ABI Research, 350 million DTT receivers will be in homes by 2013 compared with 65 million receivers in 2007. This represents a compound annual growth rate of 32%.
:: 11/02/2008
Spain - RTVE most popular service on DTT platform
Latest figures show that the DTT services from the public service broadcaster RTVE had the largest platform audience share last year. It had an audience share of 19.5%.
:: 10/02/2008
Samsung launches chip with DVB-H/DVB-T reception
Samsung has launched a radiofrequency chip and channel decoder for mobile television. The S3C4F60 measures a 65 nanometers.
:: 08/02/2008
United Kingdom - ITV to enhance DTT services
Public service broadcaster ITV has announced plans to expand the hours of its services ITV4 and CITV on the DTT platform.
:: 08/02/2008
United Kingdom - Television transmitter location maps published
The broadcast regulator Ofcom has published maps that detail the locations of all transmitters within each broadcast television region.
:: 08/02/2008
Poland - TV4 and TV Puls allocated analogue frequencies
Commercial broadcaster TVN has protested the award of analogue terrestrial frequencies to the regional broadcaters TV Puls and TV4. The National Broadcasting Council (KRRiT) awarded the frequencies.
:: 08/02/2008
Croatia - Launch of two new DTT services
The public service broadcaster HRT has been given permission to launch two new television services by the competition body AZTN.
:: 08/02/2008
Italy - Pay-DTT services available on Fastweb IPTV receiver
The premium DTT services from commercial broadcaster LA7 can now be accessed on Fastweb's IPTV set-top boxes. The set-top boxes have been certified to receive the LA7 Cartapiu smartcards.
:: 07/02/2008
France - DTT penetration reaches 28.25%
Research published by Médiamétrie shows a total of 28.2% of households access DTT services in January 2008, compared with 23.5% in December 2007.
:: 07/02/2008
Italy - Commission set up to allocate DTT frequencies
The Communications Authority, AgCom, has named the commission with task of allocating DTT frequencies. These frequencies are derived from the 40% transmission capacity that the national broadcasters, RAI, Mediaset and La7, must make available in their multiplexes.
:: 06/02/2008
Broadcom launches two DVB-H/DVB-T tuners
Broadcom has launched two new DTT chips which can both receive DVB-T and DVB-H services. The BCM 2930 and BCM 2940 measure 65 nm.
:: 06/02/2008
A DVB-H trial has been launched in Latvia. Trial partners include Mobile operator Latvian Mobile Telecom and the broadcast network operator Latvia State Radio and Television Centre.
:: 06/02/2008
Netherlands - KPN aims for 10% of TV market
The network operator KPN has announced that it aims to secure 10% of the television market by 2010 with its DTT and IPTV services. KPN markets DTT services under the Digitenne brand.
:: 05/02/2008
Israel - DTT services to be launched in August 2008
On 4 February, the Knesset (Parliament) approved the legal framework to allow for the launch of DTT services. Services are expected to be launched by the end of the summer.
:: 05/02/2008
Czech Republic - RRTV to confirm TV Barrandov DTT license
The Radio and TV Council (RRTV) is expected to confirm the DTT license for the broadcaster TV Barrandov.
:: 05/02/2008
Denmark - Three candidates for DTT license
The Mediesekretariatet received three applications for the license to operate four multiplexes on the DTT platform. As a next step, the regulator plans to announce the license winner on 28 March.
:: 05/02/2008
France - CSA closes consultation on ASO
The broadcast regulator, CSA, has closed its consultation on the process for analogue switch-off. It expects to publish a synthesis of the responses received in March.
:: 05/02/2008
Italy - Over 6.5 million DTT receivers sold
According to figures published by GfK, a total of 6.697.516 DTT receivers have been sold since the launch of DTT services in early 2004.
:: 04/02/2008
Abilis launches DVB-T/DVB-H chip
The Kudelski company Abilis has announced the launch of its AS-101 mobile digital television chip. The chip supports both DVB-T and DVB-H reception.
:: 01/02/2008
Greece - EC closes infringement procedure against Greece
The European Commission (EC) has closed its infringement procedure against Greece for failing to implement the Electronic Communications Competition Directive. This follows from the adoption of a new media in Greece in September 2007.
:: 01/02/2008
Portugal - DTT license tender expected in February
The Minister of Public Works and Telecomunications, Mário Linen, has announced that the invitation to tender for DTT services will be launched in February. Both free-to-air and pay-DTT services will be available to viewers.
:: 31/01/2008
Italy - ECJ rules against frequency allocation
The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has ruled that the allocation of frequencies in Italy goes against European Union (EU) law. According to the ECJ, Italy breached EU law by favouring incumbent broadcasters when awarding frequencies for DTT services.
:: 31/01/2008
South Africa - Plans for DTT launch in November
The Ministry of Communications is expected to present its plans on digital television to the government by the end of March.
:: 31/01/2008
Czech Republic - CRa warns 85% DTT coverage in 2010
The head of the network operator CRa, Jane Hannahovou, has expressed doubts about the universality of DTT coverage by 2010. Currently, 10 October 2010 has been set as the date for analogue switch-off.
:: 31/01/2008
United Kingdom - DTG questions Ofcom's HD/DTT plans
In its response to Ofcom's consultation The Future of Digital Terrestrial Television, the DTG has stated that the regulator’s current proposals have the potential to compromise DTT’s long term viability.
:: 31/01/2008
France - Expansion of DTV to overseas territories
The Minister of Culture, Christine Albanel, has tasked the CSA with evaluating the possibility for developing digital television services in the French overseas territories.
:: 31/01/2008
Uruguay - Launch of first DVB-H trial
The first DVB-H pilot in South America is underway in Uruguay. Trial services have been launched in the tourist region of Punta del Este.
:: 31/01/2008
United States - FCC may require DSO ads
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is expected to approve a plan that will require broadcasters to run at least four 30-second public-service announcements each day about digital switchover.
:: 30/01/2008
Spain - SIDSA launches Enter e1
SIDSA has announced the launch of a new DVB-H chipset, the Enter e1. The chipset can be easily integrated into any kind of DVB-H device including mobile phones, Portable Media Players, PDAs, etc.
:: 29/01/2008
France - CSA opens tender for HD/DTT license
The French broadcast regulator, Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel (CSA), has invited candidates to tender for an HD/DTT license. The new HD/DTT service will be a pay service.
:: 29/01/2008
Austria - Media regulator disqualifies 2 DVB-H candidates
According to media reports, the Austrian media regulator has disqualified Telekom Austria and ORS from participating in the tender for the DVB-H network operation license.
:: 29/01/2008
Germany - Appeal against EC decision on DTT subsidies
Following the decision by the European Commission (EC) to ban subsidies for the transmission of commercial DTT services, the media authority for Nordrhine-Westphalia has lodged an appeal with the European Court of Justice.
:: 28/01/2008
Spain - IGC buys stake in Dahlia TV
Swedish investment fund Investor Growth Capital AB (IGC) has taken a stake in Dahlia TV, the pay TV operator owned by Air Plus TV. IGC has taken a 26.1% stake in Air Plus TV.
:: 25/01/2008
Brunei - DVB-T launch set for August 2008
The broadcaster RTB has announced that it plans to launch DVB-T services in August. DTT trials have been underways since January 2006.
:: 25/01/2008
Indonesia - DVB-H services to launch in 2008
Nokia Siemens Networks and Global Mediacom have announced plans to launch DVB-H services in Indonesia. Services are expected to be available in the first half of 2008 in the area of Jabodetabek.
:: 24/01/2008
Germany - Mobile 3.0 DVB-H launch plans announced
Further information on the Mobile 3.0 mobile television launch plans have been made public. In early January, Mobile 3.0 officially received the license to provide DVB-H services.
:: 24/01/2008
Sri Lanka - Launch of DVB-T pilot
Dialog Telecom launched the first DVB-T pilot in Sri Lanka on 23 January. Services are available to a limited number of users in the city of Colombo.
:: 24/01/2008
NXP launches multi-band portable TV tuner
The semiconductor company NXP has launched the world's first multi-band television tuner, TDA18292.
:: 23/01/2008
According to Broadband TV News, the DTT promotions organisation, The Czech Digital Televisions Association (ADT), is to cease operations.
:: 23/01/2008
France - CSA to tender further local DTT licenses
The CSA is inviting broadcasters to tender for the provision of local DTT services in the regions of Caen, Poitiers, Reims-Mézières and Perpignan.
:: 23/01/2008
Poland - Draft amendments proposed to broadcast legislation
The parliament is currently debating amendments to the current legislation regulating radio and television broadcasts. The amendments specifically target the National Broadcasting Council, KRRiT.
:: 23/01/2008
Taiwan - PTS successfully trials DVB-H services
The public service broadcaster PTS has completed its yearlong DVB-H trial with its partners mobile operators Chunghua Telecom, Taiwan Mobile and Fareastone, manufacturers Motorola and BenQ and software vendor Cyberlink.
:: 23/01/2008
Spain - ONO against pay-per-view DTT services
The cable service provider ONO has criticized the proposal to offer pay services on the DTT platform. Commercial broadcasters would like to change current licensing terms to allow for the launch of pay-per-view services on the DTT platform.
:: 22/01/2008
United Kingdom - Three retailers to stop selling analogue TV sets
Three leading electronics retailers, Currys, Dixons and PC World, have announced that they will stop selling television sets and DVD recorders that only have analogue tuners. Already, over 90% of television sets sold by the three retailers are digital.
:: 18/01/2008
Italy - ASO to go-ahead in Sardinia
Broadcasters in Italy have reached agreement on digital switchover in the region of Sardinia.
:: 17/01/2008
United Kingdom - Digital UK continues involvement in Copeland
Digital UK, the body responsible for leading digital switchover, has presented a grant for a digital inclusion project run by Age Concern North West Cumbria. The project will provide advice, assistance and training in new technologies.
:: 17/01/2008
Austria - ASO to continue on 4 February
Analogue switch-off is set to continue on 4 February. On this date, the regions of Kärnten, Niederösterreich and Tirol will complete digital switchover.
:: 17/01/2008
Norway - Sony iDTV approved for use
The pay-DTT operator RiksTV has approved the use of the Sony HD iDTV for its services. It is the first iDTV to receive such certification.
:: 17/01/2008
Germany - Mobile 3.0 officially awarded DVB-H license
Media authorities have officially awarded the license to operate DVB-H services to Mobile 3.0. The company had been pre-selected for the license allocation in October 2007, and officially received it following its adherence to certain regulatory conditions.
:: 16/01/2008
France - 32 candidates for DVB-H broadcast licenses
A total of 32 candidates have applied for DVB-H broadcast licenses by the 15 January deadline. The CSA had invited candidates to tender for the licenses in early November.
:: 16/01/2008
Poland - TV Puls expands terrestrial coverage
The National Broadcasting Council (KKRiT) has awarded the commercial broadcaster TV Puls with terrestrial frequencies in the cities of Wroclaw and Szczecin. Previously, TV Puls had a terrestrial coverage limited to 15.9% of the population.
:: 16/01/2008
Bulgaria - DSO planning begins
According to Veselin Bozhkov, head of the Communications Regulation Commission (CRC), the CRC could begin awarding DTT licenses this summer.
:: 16/01/2008
France - Broadcasters sign agreement for mobile TV cooperation
Commercial broadcasters have signed an agreement to promote the development of mobile television services in France.
:: 15/01/2008
Spain - Over 7.4 million DTT receivers sold
With over 7.4 million receivers sold, DTT penetration has now reached 26.7% of Spanish television households.
:: 14/01/2008
Although local broadcasters were required by the DTT Technical Plan to complete digital switchover by 1 January 2008, many have not yet done so.
:: 14/01/2008
Singapore - Launch of commercial DVB-H trial
The broadcaster MediaCorp and the mobile operator M1 will launch a commercial DVB-H trial in the middle of the year. The trial is subject to regulatory approval.
:: 12/01/2008
Hungary - DTT licenses expected to be issued in Spring
The National Communications Authority (NCAH) has announced that it expects to issue an invitation to tender for a DTT license this Spring. The tender invitation had initially been expected last October.
:: 11/01/2008
Norway - ASO to begin on 4 March
The region of Rogaland in the south-west is set to switch off its analogue television services on 4 March at 11.30.
:: 11/01/2008
Italy - Mediaset to launch pay-DTT bouquet
According to Rapid TV News, the commercial broadcaster Mediaset is preparing to launch a pay-DTT service on 19 January. The new service is expected to be named "Premium Gallery".
:: 10/01/2008
Sweden - 9% subscriber growth for Boxer
In 2007, pay-DTT service provider Boxer grew its subscriber base by 9% with the addition of 55,000 new customers. This brings Boxer's total number of subscribers to 709,000.
:: 10/01/2008
Portugal - Government against DTT subsidies
While speaking to the Parliamentary Commission on Ethics, Society and Culture, the Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Augustus Saints Hisses, ruled out subsidies for DTT receivers.
:: 10/01/2008
Austria - New service on DTT platform
The new national commercial broadcast service Puls 4 will launch on the DTT platform on 28 January at 18.00.
:: 09/01/2008
Hungary - Plans for a commercial DVB-H trial
A commercial trial of DVB-H services has been launched in Hungary. Approximately 300 users will have access to Nokia receivers to test mobile television services.
:: 08/01/2008
Switzerland - Swisscom to launch DVB-H in June
Swisscom Broadcasting has announced its plans to launch DVB-H services in June 2008, in time for the EURO 2008 Football Championship. Services will be available in the cities of Basel, Berne, Geneva and Zurich.
:: 07/01/2008
Czech Republic - CDG to expand DTT coverage
The multiplex operated by the Czech Digital Group (CDG) will expand its coverage to include the cities of Brno and Ostrava. Already, it provides trial DTT services in Prague.
:: 03/01/2008
Lithuania - DTT coverage to expand to 95% of the population
The leading telecom operator, TEO, has completed its acquisiton of UAB Nacionalinė Skaitmeninė Televizija, the holder of two DTT broadcast licenses. UAB Nacionalinė Skaitmeninė Televizija has been spun off from UAB Mikrovisatos TV.
:: 03/01/2008
Portugal - New free-to-air service for DTT platform
As part of its strategy for digital switchover, the government has announced its plans to launch a new national television programme service. The new service, which will be free-to-air, will be available on the DTT platform.
:: 03/01/2008
France - CSA opens tender for local DTT services
The French broadcast regulator, Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel (CSA), has invited broadcasters to tender for local DTT services. One DTT service slot will be made available in multiplex R1.
:: 03/01/2008
The Austrian watchmaker, LAKS, has developed a watch with a DVB-T tuner. The watch has been developed in partnership with bwin and uses a DiBcom chipset.
:: 21/12/2007
CI+ Forum issues draft specification for horizontal pay-DTV market
The CI+ Forum has published a final draft of its CI+ Specification for public review.
:: 20/12/2007
Russia - Moratorium on broadcast licenses
No further television broadcast licenses will be issued until a new frequency distribution plan has been approved.
:: 20/12/2007
Norway - NTV to license post-ASO capacity
Norges televisjon (NTV), the license holder for frequencies between 470-790, has announced plans make capacity available for further pay DTT services following analogue switch-off.
:: 20/12/2007
France - Europe 2 TV to be renamed Virgin 17
The DTT service Europe 2 TV will be re-branded Virgin 17 as of 1 January 2008.
:: 19/12/2007
Sweden - New frequencies allocated for DTT services
The government has announced plans to make more frequencies available for digital broadcasting services.
:: 19/12/2007
Germany - 85% population coverage by end of year
DTT services are now available to 85% of the population. Coverage will increase to 90% of the population in 2008.
:: 19/12/2007
France - Simavelec calls for free-to-air mobile services
The consumer electronics association Simavelec has called for free-to-air mobile TV services.
:: 19/12/2007
United Kingdom - 9.3 million DTT households
According to the Digital Television Progress Report for the third quarter of 2007 (July-September) published by Ofcom, a total of 21.7 million households access digital television.
:: 19/12/2007
Australia - Changes to DSO strategy confirmed
Following the election of a new government, changes have been made to Australia's digital switchover strategy.
:: 18/12/2007
France - Parliamentary commission to review digital dividend
The Parliamentary Commission set to review the digital dividend will submit its report to the Prime Minister in early 2008.
:: 18/12/2007
India - TRAI recommends auction for mobile TV
The Telecoms Regulatory Authority (TRAI) is expected to propose that the government auction mobile TV spectrum to the highest bidder. By separating the spectrum from the license, new operators would be able to bid for the spectrum.
:: 18/12/2007
Italy - Mediaset calls for earlier ASO
The president of the commercial broadcaster Mediaset, Fedele Confalonieri, has declared the 2012 analogue switch-off date as too far away.
:: 17/12/2007
Intel creates chip with DVB-H, WiFi and WiMAX reception
Intel claims to have developed a single chip with WiFi, WiMAX and DVB-H reception. The chip is currently being produced in test quantities.
:: 17/12/2007
Spain - ASIMELEC calls for more DTT support
The consumer electronics association, ASIMELEC, has highlighted its concern regarding a lack of interest in the further development of DTT services.
:: 17/12/2007
Italy - Pangea to offer new PPV services
Pangea will launch a third pay-per-view DTT service in January 2008. The new service is backed by the former head of the Spanish commercial broadcaster Antenna 3, Maurizio Giunco.
:: 14/12/2007
United Kingdom - BBC considers reducing DTT picture quality
The BBC may be prepared to reduce picture quality in order to get the best value out of its spectrum. The BBC Executive Board is to carry out consumer research into picture quality on the DTT system following a recommendation put forward in a Deloitte & Touche report on the BBC’s use of spectrum.
:: 14/12/2007
Finland - Finnish explore YLE smart card
Finland’s ministry of justice is to examine the possibility of encrypting DTT transmissions from the public broadcaster YLE and issuing smart cards only to those that have paid the television licence fee. The method, which could be introduced as soon as 2010, would help shore up YLE finances, which have fallen in the wake of the country’s digital switchover.
:: 14/12/2007
Taiwan - DTT receiver sales surpass 2 million
The Taiwan Digital TV Committee has announced that over 2 million DVB-T receivers have now been deployed. DTT services were launched in June 2004.
:: 13/12/2007
United Kingdom - Ofcom publishes statement on digital dividend
In its statement on the digital dividend review, the communications regulator Ofcom has declared its objective to ensure that the digital dividend is used to deliver the maximum benefit for citizens and consumers in the UK.
:: 12/12/2007
United Kingdom - DSO driving digital sales
According to research published by Digital UK and Ofcom, digital switchover is a key driver of digital equipment purchases.
:: 11/12/2007
United States - Planning for ASO called into question
According to a report issued by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), regulators lack a comprehensive plan to prepare viewers for digital switchover. Analogue switch-off is set to take place in February 2009.
:: 11/12/2007
France - CSA opens consulation on digital switchover
The broadcast regulator Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel (CSA) has opened a consultation on analogue switch-off. It is asking for responses on key issues related to switch-off.
:: 10/12/2007
Italy - Universal CAM for pay-DTT services
Manufacturers and broadcasters have agreed to a new conditional access module (CAM) that can be used to access services from Mediaset Premium, La7 Cartapìu and Pangea.
:: 07/12/2007
United Kingdom - Ofcom to auction L-Band in Spring 2008
Ofcom has announced its plans to auction spectrum in the 1452 - 1492 MHz frequency band, the so-called 'L-Band.'
:: 07/12/2007
Denmark - Four DTT multiplexes to be available as of 31 Oct 2009
The Danish Radio and Television Board has announced that it will make available one DTT license for four multiplexes. The license holder will be selected following a beauty contest with the allocation expected by the end of March 2008.
:: 07/12/2007
Spain - More support for pay-DTT services
Media group Sogecable and commercial broadcaster Antena 3 have declared their support for pay services on the DTT platform. Current legislation only allows for the broadcast of free-to-air DTT services.
:: 07/12/2007
Estonia - Analogue switch-off set for February 2010
The Ministry of Culture has brought forward the date for analogue switch-off from February 2012 to February 2010. It prefers a quick switch-off rather than dragging the process across several years.
:: 07/12/2007
Spain - 7 million DTT receivers sold
The latest figures published by Impulsa TDT, the organisation promoting DTT services, show that 7 million DTT receivers have been sold. A further 2 million DTT receivers are expected to be sold during the Christmas period.
:: 06/12/2007
Germany - DTT services to be launched in Saarland
DTT services are set to launch in Saarland on 13 December. Simultaneously, analogue terrestrial television services will be shut-off.
:: 06/12/2007
The initial plan to issue the invitation to tender for a DTT multiplex by the end of 2007 has been delayed until 2008. The lack of parliamentary approval is the reason for the delay.
:: 06/12/2007
United Kingdom - Push-VOD services from Freeview?
The free-to-air DTT platform, Freeview, is preparing to launch a push video on demand in early 2008. The service will provide viewers with content from the BBC, ITV and Channel 4.
:: 05/12/2007
Algeria - DTT services to begin in 2008
Authorities in Algeria have announced plans to launch DTT services in 2008. Coverage is expected to reach 70% of the population by 2009.
:: 03/12/2007
United Kingdom - Most vulnerable need more DSO support
According to a report by the Ofcom Consumer Panel, information and support for digital switchover is not reaching those who need it most.
:: 03/12/2007
Germany - 18 million digital STBs in homes
According to the latest figures produced by the consumer electronics association ZVEI, 18 million digital set-top boxes are now in homes in Germany.
:: 03/12/2007
United Kingdom - Competition Commission raises concerns about NGW/Arqiva merger
The Competition Commission has proposed that National Grid Wireless (NGW) dispose of its transmission business following its merger with the network operator Arqiva. It believes that merger between NGW and Arqiva could lead to higher prices and lower service quality.
:: 02/12/2007
Germany - DSO to be completed by 2008
Digital switchover should be completed in Germany by 2008. DTT services will launch in the remaining areas, including Bavaria and the Rhineland-Palatinate, by the end of the year.
:: 30/11/2007
New Zealand - Government announces ASO plans
The government has started putting in place plans for digital switchover. It plans for analogue switch-off to take place either when digital penetration has reached 75% or in 2012, depending on which occurs first.
:: 29/11/2007
European Council of Ministers provide support to DVB-H services
The European Council of Ministers has endorsed the European Commission's (EC) strategy for mobile television. The DVB-H standard will be published in the list of official European Union standards and will receive support by member-states for launch of services.
:: 28/11/2007
United Kingdom - Viewers want more SD services on Freeview
The broadcast regulator Ofcom has published the results of its market research on the use of the digital dividend. Based on the six potential services presented, consumers demonstrated a preference for extra standard-definition channels on the DTT platform while mobile television received the lowest ranking.
:: 28/11/2007
Finland - YLE to end YLE Extra
The public broadcaster YLE will shut down its YLE Extra television service next year. This measure is taken to reduce costs for the broadcaster.
:: 27/11/2007
United Kingdom - Misinformation given to consumers about HD/DTT services
Ofcom commissioned a mystery shopping exercise among retailers to test the advice given to consumers about receiving HDTV services. While the majority of information given was accurate, there was significant confusion among retailers over the current and future availability of HD services on the DTT platform.
:: 27/11/2007
Belgium - Launch of DTT multiplex for French-speaking community
The French-speaking community has officially launched its DTT services on a single multiplex. This follows after a number of years of DTT test transmissions.
:: 27/11/2007
France - 42.4% digital television penetration
DTT is the leading digital platform in France. Of the 42.4% of digital households, it is estimated that 2/3 rely on the DTT platform. Each month, an average of 250,000 households adopt DTT services.
:: 26/11/2007
Estonia - Third DTT multiplex to be launched
A third multiplex is set for launch during the week of 26 November. It will offer free-to-air services to nearly 100% of the population.
:: 26/11/2007
United Kingdom - S&T to provide MHEG-5 middleware for Freesat
Strategy & Technology (S&T) has been selected to integrate the middleware MHEG-5 into the free-to-view satellite service Freesat. The service is set to launch in 2008.
:: 26/11/2007
Australia - Changes expected to media sector
With the election of the Australian Labor Party (ALP) on November 24, a few changes are expected in the media sector. Among the changes, analogue switch-off will have a firm date, 31 December 2013.
:: 23/11/2007
Czech Republic - Amendments added to media law
The president Vaclav Klaus has approved several amendments to the Czech media law regarding digital switchover that will come into effect in early 2008.
:: 23/11/2007
Spain - Eladio Gutierrez new head of Impulsa TDT
Eladio Gutierrez from the public service broadcaster RTVE, has been name the new president of the Impulsa TDT, the organisation responsible for promoting DTT in Spain.
:: 22/11/2007
Spain - Government support for pay-DTT services
The Secretary of State for Telecommunications and the Information Society, Francisco Ros, has declared his support to changes to DTT legislation to allow for the introduction of pay-DTT services. Current license conditions do not allow DTT operators to offer pay services.
:: 22/11/2007
United Kingdom - Disney to offer services on Picnic TV
Disney Channel has confirmed that it will provide services for BSkyB's proposed pay-DTT platform, Picnic TV. Disney will provide a mix of content from the Disney Channel and Playhouse Disney.
:: 22/11/2007
Spain - Government encourages regions to share DTT services
The government has decided to allocate an additional multiplex in regions that agree to share their regional DTT programmes services.
:: 21/11/2007
The DT501HS from Onda Communications has been named a winner in the International CES Innovations 2008 Design and Engineering Awards. It is the world's first DVB-H PC product.
:: 21/11/2007
Digital TV Labs launches new DVB-T test suite
Digital TV Labs has launched a new lab-based radio-frequency test suite for DVB-T receivers. The test suite examines receiver performance in the 50 most challenging locations across Europe.
:: 21/11/2007
Singapore - Proposed regulation for mobile TV services
The communications regulator, the Media Development Authority of Singapore (MDA), has opened a consultation on mobile television services. It is seeking input to its proposed regulatory framework which covers such issues as licensing, content and advertising regulations.
:: 21/11/2007
Italy - Mediaset to launch two new DTT services
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset has announced plans to launch two new television programme services on the free-to-air DTT platform. The new services have been names IRIS and BIS.
:: 21/11/2007
Estonia - 6500 subscribers for ZUUMtv
The pay DTT service provider ZUUMtv had 6,500 subscribers at the end of October. Its aim of reaching 50,000 subscribers by December 2008 may be difficult to achieve.
:: 21/11/2007
France - CSA allocates HD/DTT licenses
The Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel (CSA) has announced that it has allocated the two HD licenses for the DTT platform to the free-to-air commercial broadcasters TF1 and M6. A total of four broadcasters had applied for the two available licenses.
:: 21/11/2007
United Kingdom - Ofcom opens consultation on DVB-T2 multiplex
The communications regulator Ofcom has opened a consultation on the possibility of providing new services on the Multiplex B using DVB-T2 and MPEG-4 AVC. Currently, Multiplex B offers services from the public service broadcaster BBC.
:: 20/11/2007
United Kingdom - PSBs agree to deliver HD/DTT services
The public service broadcasters, BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Five, have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding to deliver HD services on the DTT platform by 2012.
:: 20/11/2007
Austria - High interest in DTT licenses
The broadcasting authority, RTR, is pleasantly surprised by the huge interest shown for licenses on the third DTT multiplex, MUX C. A total of 29 local and regional broadcasters have applied for a DTT license.
:: 20/11/2007
United Kingdom - Freeview in 14 million homes
Freeview, free-to-air DTT marketing brand, has announced that it is now available in 14 million homes. This confirms Ofcom's estimate that 80% of households converting to digital are opting for the DTT platform.
:: 16/11/2007
WRC-07 concludes with new Radio Regulations
The World Radiocommunication Conference 2007 (WRC-07) concluded its deliberations with the revision and update to the international treaty, the Radio Regulation, governing the use of radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits.
:: 16/11/2007
Spain - Complaint lodged against Abertis for dominant position
The Competition Body, CNC, has opened a case against the network operator Abertis for abuse of dominant position. The case is based on a complaint lodged by network operator Axion and commercial broadcasters Sogecable and Telecinco.
:: 16/11/2007
United Kingdom - Freeview launches Xmas campaign
The free-to-air DTT platform, Freeview, has launched its Christmas marketing campaign. The campaign includes its first ever television advertisements in the three TV regions, Border, Central and Granada, set to complete digital switchover next.
:: 16/11/2007
Italy - Public tender for frequency allocation
A public tender will be opened for the allocation of 108 terrestrial television frequencies out of a total of 24,680 frequencies. This will be the first time that frequencies are allocated via a public bidding process.
:: 15/11/2007
Italy - Partial switch-off covers all of Sardinia
Following the switch-off of three analogue channels in Cagliari, switch-off has been extended to the full island of Sardinia. Analogue services from national broadcasters RAI, Mediaset and La7 will be switched off.
:: 15/11/2007
Australia - Single EPG for DTT platform
Broadcasters have agreed to provide viewers with a single free-to-air electronic programme guide (EPG) by 1 January 2008. The service will be available free-of-charge.
:: 14/11/2007
Spain - EURO 6 million DTT promotions campaign
The Ministry of Industry and the DTT promotions organisation, Impulsa TDT, have decided to jointly fund a EURO 6 million DTT advertising campaign.
:: 14/11/2007
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Whitehaven
This morning at 2am, the three remaining analogue channels, BBC One, ITV1 and Channel 4, were switched off in Whitehaven. This follows from the switch-off of BBC Two on 17 October and completes digital switchover in the area.
:: 13/11/2007
European Commission issues new telecom proposal
The European Commission (EC) has formally proposed a reform to the European Union's telecom rules. It proposes a single European telecom market that would impact 500 million consumers.
:: 13/11/2007
United Kingdom - NAO recommendations to BBC on DSO
The BBC Trust published an independent review on the BBC's plans for digital switchover commissioned from the National Audit Office (NAO). Specifically, the review examines how the BBC is meeting its obligations under the Royal Charter in digital switchover.
:: 10/11/2007
France - CSA opens tender process for DVB-H licenses
The broadcast regulator CSA is inviting candidates to tender for DVB-H licenses. A total of 16 television and 4-9 radio programme services will be available on the mobile television platform.
:: 09/11/2007
Poland - Largescale DVB-H trial in 2009
The Office of Electronic Communications (UKE) is inviting candidates to participate in a large-scale DVB-H trial in 2008. The determination of the trial conditions and type will be undertaken by the UKE with support from industry.
:: 09/11/2007
Ireland - ComReg publishes DTT license conditions
The national spectrum management agency, the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) has issued its licensing framework for DTT services in Ireland. It has also issued a first multiplex to the public service broadcaster RTE and the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI).
:: 09/11/2007
France - CSA begins process for allocating local TV licenses
The broadcast regulator CSA is inviting broadcasters to apply for local television licenses in 5 regions. The regions include Brest, Saint-Etienne,Nice and Menton, Montluçon and Strasbourg.
:: 09/11/2007
United Kingdom - QVC renews DTT carriage contract
The shopping service QVC has renewed its contract for carriage on the DTT platform. The service will now be available until 2022. The initial contract was set for expiry in November 2010.
:: 09/11/2007
Russia - Approval of digital switchover plan
Following two years of debate, the Prime Minister's office has approved a plan from digital switchover. The transitionis set to take place between 2008 and 2015.
:: 09/11/2007
Spain - EC approves subsidies for switchover in Soria
The European Commission (EC) has published its decision allowing the distribution of subsidies for the digital switchover project in the province of Soria. The decision had been made on 27 September 2007.
:: 09/11/2007
France - French Network operator TDF forays into Germany
The French network operator TDF has purchased Deutsche Telekom's broadcast services subsidiary T-Systems Media & Broadcast for EURO 850 million.
:: 09/11/2007
Spain - Dahlia TV wants to launch pay-DTT services
Dahlia TV, a new company set up by a former executive from the cable operator Ono, would like to offer pay-DTT services in Spain. The company is targetting the 75% of television households that do not subscribe to any pay television services.
:: 07/11/2007
United Kingdom - One more week until full ASO in Whitehaven
Following the shut-off of one analogue channel on 17 October, complete analogue switch-off is expected to take place in Whitehaven on 15 November.
:: 06/11/2007
Italy - PPV services boost Mediaset revenue
Mediaset reported an increase of 3.7% in its consolidated net revenues for the first nine months of 2007 compared with the same period in 2006. The increase is largely the result of higher revenues from the pay-per-view activities of Mediaset Premium, and network operator activities.
:: 06/11/2007
Spain - 7 million DTT receivers expected to be sold by end of year
The roll-out and uptake of DTT services is progressing smoothly in Spain. In two years, full DTT coverage will be achieved while analogue switch-off to be completed on 3 April 2010.
:: 06/11/2007
France - Three mobile television programme slots reserved for PSB
The French Minister of Culture, Christine Albanel, has informed the CSA that three programme service slots on the mobile television platform will be reserved for the public service broadcaster France Télévisions.
:: 05/11/2007
Estonia - HD/DTT trial continues
HDTV services continue to be available on the DTT platform as part of a trial that initially began in June 2007. Since August, viewers can access two new HD services, LUXE.TV HD and VOOM HD.
:: 05/11/2007
Switzerland - Further ASO on 26 November
Analogue switch-off will take place in the German-speaking part of Switzerland on 26 November. Analogue switch-off took place in the French-speaking region in June 2007 and in the Italian-speaking region in July 2006.
:: 02/11/2007
Italy - Agcom recommends frequencies for small broadcasters
The communications regulator Agcom has recommended that the broadcasters RAI and Mediaset be required release their unused frequencies to make them available for smaller broadcasters.
:: 02/11/2007
Czech Republic - TV Nova on DTT platform in North Bohemia
Commercial broadcaster TV Nova has begun DTT transmissions in North Bohemia.
:: 02/11/2007
Italy - Two new RAI services on DTT platform
The public service broadcaster RAI has announced plan to launch two new television programme services on the DTT platform. One service, to be launched in 2008, will be an entertainment service for young viewers while the second service, to be launched in 2009, will offer general entertainment for all viewers.
:: 01/11/2007
Norway - DTT coverage reaches 80%
With 120 new digital transmitter sites launched on 1 November, the DTT platform is now available to 80% of the population. Altogether, 270 transmitter sites provide DTT services.
:: 01/11/2007
Slovenia - DTT legislation approved by National Assembly
The National Assembly has approved the legal framework allowing for digital broadcasting. It has set 2010 as the deadline for digital switchover.
:: 31/10/2007
Hungary - Delays to DTT licensing process
The National Communications Authority of Hungary (NCAH) has announced that it will delay the licensing process for DTT services. NCAH had planned to invite candidates to tender for the operation of 5 freet-to-air DTT multiplexes by the end of October.
:: 30/10/2007
Luxembourg - Luxe TV joins DTT platform
The thematic service Luxe TV will broadcast its services from the DTT transmitter in Dudelange, Luxembourg with the aim of reaching audiences in Luxembourg and parts of Germany.
:: 30/10/2007
Netherlands - Strong DTT growth for KPN
The DTT and IPTV operator KPN has announced that the third quarter of 2007 was its quarter with the fastest ever growth in new television subscribers.
:: 30/10/2007
Germany - Commercial broadcasters join DTT platforms in Leipzig and Saarland
Commercial broadcasters will join the DTT platforms in the Land of Saarland and in the city of Leipzig. The decision by commercial broadcasters to join the DTT platform demonstrates the growing importance of the platform.
:: 29/10/2007
Lithuania - TEO acquires UAB NST
The incumbent telcom operator TEO has agreed to buy a 100% stake in UAB Nacionaliné Skaitmeniné Televizija (UAB NST), the holder of two DTT broadcast licences.
:: 29/10/2007
United Kingdom - Dates for ASO in Scotland announced
Digital UK, the body responsible for managing digital switchover, has announced the dates for analogue switch-off in Scotland. Scottish Borders will be the first region to switch-off when the transmitter in Selkirk replaces its analogue signal with digital on 6 November 2008.
:: 29/10/2007
Kenya - Launch of DVB-H services
DVB-H services, branded as DStv Mobile have been launched in the capital city of Nairobi.
:: 29/10/2007
Italy - 3 Italia plans DVB-T services
The telecom operator 3 Italia has announced plans to offer both DVB-T and DVB-H services from its DTT multiplex. 3 Italia currently uses its multiplex to provide DVB-H services.
:: 26/10/2007
Hong Kong - DTT receiver testing group set-up
The Hong Kong Digital Terrestrial Television Local Testing Group will provide support for the rollout and testing of DTT services in Hong Kong. In particulary, the group will test DTT set-top boxes and iDTVs.
:: 26/10/2007
Austria - ORS prepares for DVB-H license bid
Network operator ORS, a contender for the DVB-H license, is inviting interested parties to attend a roundtable discussion on the introcution of DVB-H services. ORS would like to offer 15 television programme services should it receive the license to operate DVB-H services from Multiplex D.
:: 25/10/2007
United Kingdom - Changes to DTT multiplexes
Broadcast regulator Ofcom has announced changes to the television programme services on the free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 24/10/2007
France - Invitation to tender for DVB-H licenses expected in November
Michel Boyon, head of the broadcast regulatory agency CSA, has announced plans to invite candidates to tender for DVB-H broadcast licenses in the first two weeks of November.
:: 24/10/2007
Slovakia - ASO campaign to begin in 2008
The Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications (MDPT) has announced that it will launch a digital switchover publicity campaign next year with a budget of approximately SKK 125 million (€3.74 million).
:: 24/10/2007
Germany - EC declares aid in North Rhine Westphalia illegal
The European Commission (EC) had declared illegal the government's plan to grant aid to commercial broadcasters on the DTT platform. Authorities had planned to distribute €6.8 million over five years to help offset some of the DTT transmission cost.
:: 24/10/2007
France - PSB would like free services on mobile TV platform
The public service broadcaster, France Télévisions, has announced that it would like at least four service slots on the mobile television platform With these slots, it would like to offer viewers access to France 2, France 3, France 4 and France 5.
:: 23/10/2007
France - 89% DTT coverage by end 2008
The broadcast regulator, Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel (CSA), has announced the roll-out of DTT services in 2008. National DTT coverage will reach 89% of the population by the end of 2008.
:: 23/10/2007
Poland - New services on trial DTT platform
The public service broadcaster, TVP, has increased the number of services available on the trial DTT platform in Warsaw and Poznan.
:: 23/10/2007
Russia - New plan for digital switchover submitted to government
The Rossvyazokhrankuktura has produced a plan for digital switchover. This plan is expected to be submitted to the government commission responsible for digital television.
:: 23/10/2007
Spain - Pay DTT trial in Alcázar de San Juan
A new pay-DTT trial has been launched in Spain. Following the trial in Extramadura, a new trial in the town of Alcázar de San Juan has been launched by Mediapro, Sidsa, SDIdigital and Siemens.
:: 22/10/2007
Austria - ASO completed in regional capitals
Nearly one year after the launch of DTT services, analogue switch-off has been completed in all of the regional capitals. Switch-off has now been completed in Vienna and the regions of Lower Austria and Burgenland.
:: 22/10/2007
United Kingdom - Launch of Dave
UKTV has launched Dave, the rebranding of its service UKTV G2. Dave is a male-skewing entertainment service on-air for 20 hours a day with two hours of homeshopping overnight.
:: 19/10/2007
EU Commissioner Reding pushes for DVB-H services in Europe
In a speech to members of the European Regulators Group (ERG) and the European Platform of (Audiovisual) Regulatory Authorities (EPRA), European Commissioner Viviane Reding has called for the allocation of frequencies for DVB-H services.
:: 19/10/2007
DTT services are now available to 95% of the population, including the island of Gozo. DTT service provider GO has invested EURO 2.3 million to increase DTT coverage.
:: 18/10/2007
Italy - Mediaset may launch new DTT services
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset is reported to be preparing for the launch of two new services on the free-to-air DTT platform by the end of the year. One service will provide classic entertainment (sitcoms) while the second will target a female audience.
:: 17/10/2007
United Kingdom - Ofcom to publish HD/DTT proposals in November
At Ofcom's annual lecture in Westminster, the regulator's chief executive, Ed Richards, confirmed plans to publish proposals for migration to HD on the terrestrial platform. HD/DTT services could be available at the end of 2009.
:: 17/10/2007
United States - $697 million for DTV information campaign
In an effort to raise awareness on the impending analogue switch-off, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has announced plans for its information campaign.
:: 17/10/2007
United Kingdom - Analogue switch-off begins
At 2.00 on 17 October, the analogue channel of BBC 2 was switched off in Whitehaven, Cumbria. It was replaced by a digital signal which was switched on at 2.37.
:: 17/10/2007
Singapore - Launch of HD service on DTT platform
MediaCorp will launch an HD service, HD5, on the DTT platform on 11 November. The service will be a partial simulcast of MediaCorp's standard-definition service, Channel 5.
:: 17/10/2007
Germany - Mobile 3.0 expected to be allocated DVB-H license
The DVB-H broadcast license is expected to be allocated to Mobile 3.0, a joint venture between the media companies Mobiles Fernsehen Deutschland (MFD) and Neva Media. The license will allow Mobile 3.0 to operate the DVB-H platform.
:: 17/10/2007
Australia - Plans to launch HD services on DTT platform
The recent changes to the Australian media legislation has allowed for the launch of new services on the DTT platform. Current legislation permits free-to-air commercial broadcasters to provide new television programme services in high-definition.
:: 16/10/2007
Germany - T-Systems allocated DVB-H license
The Bundesnetzagentur has issued a license to T-Systems for the development of a country-wide DVB-H network. The building of the network is expected to begin in early 2008.
:: 16/10/2007
Sweden - Analogue switch-off completed
On 15 October, Sweden completed the switch-off of its analogue terrestrial television platform, ahead of the government mandated switch-off date of February 2008.
:: 16/10/2007
Spain - Culture programme to launch on DTT platform
Public service broadcaster RTVE and the Ministry of Culture are planning to launch a thematic cultural service on the DTT platform. The new service will be available in 2010, following the completion of analogue switch-off.
:: 16/10/2007
United Kingdom - 20% of viewers in Whitehaven unprepared for ASO
With the first phase of digital switchover set to begin, thousands of viewers may not yet be prepared. The northern town of Whitehaven will switch-off the analogue channel BBC2 and only make it available digitally as of 17 October.
:: 15/10/2007
Portugal - Vodafone interest in DTT platform operation
The telecom operator Vodafone is considering making a bid to operate the DTT platform in Portugal. Alternatively, it is also examining the possibility of launching IPTV services.
:: 15/10/2007
Poland - 30,000 DTT receivers in homes
Despite not having launched an official DTT platform, over 30,000 homes have a DTT receiver. They are able to access trial DTT services available in various cities across the country.
:: 15/10/2007
Spain - KeyFly conditional access for pay-DTT platform?
Should a pay-DTT service be launched in Spain, it is expected that it will be encrypted using KeyFly, a conditional access system developed by Sidsa.
:: 15/10/2007
Spain - VEO TV to offer viewers alternative services
The media group Unidad Editorial has unveiled its plans for its DTT service VEO TV. Rather than make it a generalist service, the company general manager, Antonio Fernández-Galiano, would like to offer an alternative to viewers.
:: 12/10/2007
Austria - Second multiplex to be launched at end of October
A second DTT multiplex, MUX B, will be launched on 22 October. This multiplex will use frequencies released during analogue switch-off which began in March and ended in October in Vienna, St. Pölten and Burgenland.
:: 12/10/2007
Croatia - Subsidies for DTT set-top boxes
To help speed digital switchover on the terrestrial platform, the government has decided to introduce subsidies to be used towards the purchase of DTT set-top boxes as part of a DTT pilot in the coastal region of Istria.
:: 11/10/2007
France - Preparations underway to begin discussion on digital dividend
The Prime Minister has asked the French delegation to the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-07) to ensure that maximum options are made available for the use of the digital dividend.
:: 11/10/2007
France - Further HD/DTT trials approved
The broadcast regulator, Conseil Supérieur de l'Audiovisuel (CSA) has approved further HD/DTT testing for the month of October.
:: 11/10/2007
France - Candidates present HD/DTT proposals
The four candidates vying for the two HD/DTT licenses have presented their projects to the broadcasting regulator CSA. The four candidates are Metropole Television (parent company of M6), TF1, AB NT and Canal+.
:: 10/10/2007
Spain - Analogue televisions continue strong sales
For the second consecutive month, half of all television sets sold do not have a digital tuner. This means that they are not ready for digital switchover unless the viewer connects a DTT set-top box.
:: 10/10/2007
United States - AT&T buys frequency licenses from HiWire
Telecom operator AT&T will acquire wireless licenses in the 700 MHz frequency from Aloha Partners LP. It is purchasing the licenses for $2.5 billion.
:: 10/10/2007
Bulgaria - PSB requests funding for digital switchover
The public service broadcaster BNT has asked the government to provide funding of BGN300 million (€153.5 million) to help with digital switchover.
:: 10/10/2007
Spain - Limited interest in MHP services
The results of a trial conducted in the cities of Madrid and Salamanca show that users have limited interest in interactive DTT services, despite being aware of the availability of such services.
:: 08/10/2007
Spain - Over 6 million DTT receivers sold
The latest figures published by the DTT organisation Impulsa TDT show that over 330,000 DTT receivers were sold in September. The number of DTT receivers sold for the first eight months of 2007 is equivalent to the number sold for the entire year 2006.
:: 05/10/2007
Sweden - 12.5% growth for Boxer since September 2006
Pay-DTT service provider Boxer has reported that at the end of September 2007, it had 693,000 subscribers. This represents an increase of 15,000 subscribers during the third quarter and 39,000 since the beginning of the year.
:: 05/10/2007
Sweden - Government against further regulation of pay-DTT platform
The government has decided to allow programme companies to decide for themselves how to organise their services on the DTT platform. They will need to agree to a consumer-friendly regulatory framework.
:: 05/10/2007
Spain - Government allocates €19.3 million to DTT
The Ministry of Industry has allocated €19.3 million to help with the implementation of DTT services. This is in addition to the €1.7 billion allocated in the 2008 budget for the promotion of the "Information Society" as a whole.
:: 04/10/2007
Kenya - DTT transition to begin in 2012
Information and Broadcasting minister Mutahi Kagwe has announced that digital switchover will be completed by 17 June 2015 with teh transition set to begin in 2012.
:: 04/10/2007
France - Further roll-out of DTT services in December
The Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel (CSA) has set 15 December as the date for the roll-out of phase 6B of DTT services.
:: 04/10/2007
Poland - Broadcasters seek guidance following digital switchover
Broadcasters are requesting that the government put in place a strategy following the completion of digital switchover. They would like to know how many multiplexes they will be allocated and when it will be possible to launch HD/DTT services.
:: 04/10/2007
United Kingdom - Ofcom opens consultation on Sky's pay-DTT proposal
The broadcast regulator Ofcom has opened a public consultation on a proposal by BSkyB and National Grid Wireless (NGW) to replace BSkyB's existing free-to-air DTT services, Sky News, Sky Sports News and Sky Three, with pay DTT services.
:: 03/10/2007
Spain - Call for more interactive services on DTT platform
DTT services are now available in 30% television households in Spain. However, very few of set-top boxes sold enable access to interactive services.
:: 03/10/2007
Albania - NCRT to prepare framework for digital TV services
The National Council of Radio and Television (NCRT)is set to draft a strategy for the audiovisual sector, with specific focus on regulatory issues. The NCRT will be assisted by the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).
:: 03/10/2007
Italy - ASO continues in Sardinia
Starting on 10 November, three television programme services will only be available on the DTT platform in the island of Sardinia. National broadcasters RAI and Mediaset will each turn off one of their two analogue terrestrial television channels (Rai Due and Rete4) and only make the services available on the DTT platform.
:: 02/10/2007
Portugal - Abertis shows interest in DTT platform
Spanish network operator is reported to be interested in participating in the Portuguese DTT platform jointly with Portugal Telecom SGPS.
:: 02/10/2007
The Minister of Communications, Paolo Gentiloni, has confirmed that analogue switch-off will take place in 2012. Currently legislation sets analogue switch-off for December 2008.
:: 02/10/2007
United Kingdom - BSkyB provides details on proposed DTT service
BSkyB has announced the details of its planned DTT service to be launched under the brand Picnic TV. The new service will offer broadband, telephone and pay-DTT services.
:: 01/10/2007
United Kingdom - Digital UK launches new Postcode Checker
Digital UK, the organisation tasked with leading digital switchover in the UK, has launched a a new online Postcode Checker. The new service will provide viewers with details of when they will switch-off and what digital services they will be able to receive.
:: 01/10/2007
France - Invitation to tender for DVB-H licenses at end of October
In an interview published in the magazine Strategies, the head of the Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel, Michel Boyon, spoke about the plans for mobile television services.
:: 01/10/2007
Czech Republic - New legislation to allow for launch of new DTT services
The Czech parliament is reported to have amended current DTT legislation to allow for the launch of new services on the DTT platform.
:: 01/10/2007
New Zealand - Two HDTV services on DTT platform
The public service broadcaster, TVNZ, has announced that it will launch two HDTV services, TV1 and TV2, on the DTT platform. The services will be launched by July 2008, in time for the summer Olympic Games.
:: 29/09/2007
Switzerland - Swisscom Broadcast selected to provide DVB-H services
The broadcast regulator BAKOM has allocated a DVB-H license to Swisscom Broadcast. It had been one of two companies, along with Mobile TV Schweiz, vying for the license.
:: 27/09/2007
France - CSA opens consultation on local television services
The broadcast regulator has opened a consultation on local television services on the DTT platform. By doing so, the CSA hopes to better understand the needs of the public and commercial broadcasters who provide local television services and ensure that sufficient capacity is made available.
:: 27/09/2007
United Kingdom - Launch of Freeview Slingbox
SlingMedia is launching the Slingbox Pro in the United Kingdom on 28 September. The Slingbox is a set-top box that allows viewers to watch their own television from a remote location using a broadband connection.
:: 27/09/2007
Malta - Consultation on DTT services opened
The Broadcasting Authority of Malta has published a consultation on digital television services on the terrestrial platform. The document, entitled Making Digital Broadcasting Accessible to All, puts forward propositions for the use of three frequency channels.
:: 27/09/2007
Malta - Go prepares for launch of HD/DTT
The DTT service provider GO is prepared to launch HDTV services on the terrestrial platform. However, Go depends upon the allocation of the necessary frequency channels to be able to do so.
:: 27/09/2007
France - DTT penetration reached 27%
In the latest figures published by the DTT association Télévision Numérique pour Tous and GfK, 27% of households access DTT services. In addition, 11.4 million DTT receivers have been purchased or rented.
:: 27/09/2007
United States - 51% unaware of digital switchover
The Association of Public TV Stations (APTS) has criticized the government for failing to allocate sufficient funding to inform viewers about analogue switch-off set to take place on 17 February 2009.
:: 26/09/2007
France - DVB-H standard selected to provide mobile TV services
The government has signed a decree for the use of DVB-H as the technical standard for mobile television. DVB-SH can be used to provide complementary coverage.
:: 25/09/2007
Italy - Government modifies iDTV tax break
The government has revised its plan to offer a tax break of up to EURO 200 for buyers of digital television sets following the comments from the European Commission last July.
:: 24/09/2007
Germany - Government opposes DVB-H mandation
The Bundesrat has decided against the mandation of a single standard for mobile television services. It is opposed to the European Commission's position that DVB-H should be mandated throughout Europe.
:: 24/09/2007
France - Launch of mobile TV services expected by 2008
The French Ministry of Culture has announced it will launch mobile television services by the summer of 2008. It would like services to be available in time for the Beijing Summer Olympics.
:: 23/09/2007
Germany - RTL to join several new regional DTT platforms
The commercial broadcaster RTL is considering to join the DTT platform in the regions of Bielefeld/Gütersloh, Stuttgart and Leipzig/Halle. Previously, commercial broadcasters, including RTL and ProSiebenSat1, had only joined DTT platforms in areas with a high population density.
:: 21/09/2007
The Principality of Andorra, a small country located in the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain, will switch off its analogue terrestrial television platform on September 25 at 11.00.
:: 20/09/2007
United Kingdom - UKTV Bright Ideas to be relaunched as Dave
The television programme service UKTV Bright Ideas is to be relaunched on 15 October as Dave. It will be a comedy and factual entertainment service that targets a younger male audience.
:: 20/09/2007
United Kingdom - DTV penetration reaches 84%
The broadcast regulator Ofcom has published its digital television update for the three month period ending in June 2007. During the second quarter of 2007, a total of 1.9 million DTT receivers were sold, of which IDTVs accounted for 900,000.
:: 19/09/2007
Germany - DTT services to launch in further parts of Bavaria
Digital switchover is set to take place in parts of Bavaria (Schwaben and Altbayern) on 27 November.
:: 19/09/2007
United Kingdom - Virgin 1 to launch on 1 October
Virgin Media has announced that its new television service, Virgin 1, will launch on 1 October. It will replace Ftn on the free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 19/09/2007
Spain - 5.78 million DTT receivers sold
The latest figures published by the DTT promotions organisation, Impulsa TDT, show that 5.78 million DTT receivers have been sold in Spain since the launch of DTT services. Of these, 371,000 were sold during the month of July.
:: 19/09/2007
United Kingdom - Ofcom allows for BBC HD service
In its Market Impact Assessment (MIA), Ofcom has stated that plans by the BBC to introduce high-definition services is unlikely to have a significant negative market impact.
:: 18/09/2007
India - Regulator opens consultation on mobile TV
TRAI, the telecom regulator for India, has opened a consultation on mobile television services. It is seeking guidance from stakeholders on various policy issues relating to mobile television.
:: 18/09/2007
Germany - Mobile operators agree to DVB-H conditions
The telecom operators T-Mobile, Vodafone and O2 have agreed to meet the conditions set forward by the regulatory authorities in order to be allocated a DVB-H license. The license is expected to be allocated in October.
:: 18/09/2007
United Kingdom - Arqiva to build Freesat network
The network operator Arqiva has been awarded a contract by the BBC to provide end-to-end distribution services for the free-to-air satellite service, Freesat. The service is expected to launch in March 2008.
:: 17/09/2007
United Kingdom - New campaign launched to promote DSO
Digital UK, the body leading digital switchover, is launching a campaign to promote switchover. The latest campaign, worth £8 million, will deliver information on national and regional television, radio, press and online.
:: 17/09/2007
France - CSA issues multiplex licenses for next phase of DTT rollout
The broadcast regulator Conseil Supérieur de l'Audiovisuel (CSA) has issued the multiplex licenses for the launch of DTT services in the northwestern part of France. Services are to begin by the end of October.
:: 17/09/2007
France - 118% increase in advertising revenue for DTT platform
According to the Yacast Institute, the advertising revenue of the broadcasters on the DTT platform have increased by 118% in the past year with advertising revenue reaching EURO 220 million.
:: 17/09/2007
Belgium - DVB-H trial in Brussels
The public service broadcaster for the French-speaking community of Belgium, RTBF, has announced plans to test DVB-H services in the region of Brussels. Already, the government has allocated frequencies to RTBF for DVB-H services.
:: 14/09/2007
United Kingdom - DTG provides Freesat testing
The Digital TV Group (DTG) will provide test and conformance services for the free-to-air satellite platform, Freesat, scheduled to launch early in 2008.
:: 14/09/2007
United Kingdom - Ofcom to permit the use of DVB-T 8K mode
Ofcom has published an updated version of its 'Reference Parameters for Digital Terrestrial Television Transmissions in the United Kingdom'. The document sets out the basic technical characteristics which should be used by the UK's digital terrestrial broadcasters.
:: 13/09/2007
France - Launch of regional DTT services
A total of 17 regional television programme services are to be launched on the free-to-air DTT platform throughout France. Previously, these services had only been available on the analogue terrestrial platform.
:: 13/09/2007
United Kingdom - Manufacturers take measures to ease switchover
The Digital Switchover Supply Chain Group, representing retailers and consumer electronic manufacturers, have agreed to take specific measures to facilitate digital switchover. Members of the group include Sony, Panasonic, Currys and Tesco.
:: 13/09/2007
Czech Republic - Network operator calls for ASO delay
The network operator Radiokomunikace has indicated its preference for analogue switch-off to be delayed until 2014. Officially, analogue switch-off is set to take place on 10 October 2010, although many view this date as unrealistic.
:: 13/09/2007
Spain - Technical trial for pay-DTT services
Several broadcasters, including La Sexta, Net TV and Veo TV, have undertaken a technical trial of pay-DTT services in the western region of Extremadura. The trial aims to test different technologies and to determine what type of content viewers are willing to purchase.
:: 12/09/2007
Austria - Regulator opens tender for DVB-H license
The broadcast regulator KommAustria is inviting candidates to tender for a DVB-H license. The license is for the roll-out and operation of DVB-H services on Multiplex D.
:: 11/09/2007
Spain - Government approves switchover timetable
The Spanish cabinet has approved a proposed digital switchover plan that calls for analogue switch-off to take place in four phases from 2008 until April 2010.
:: 11/09/2007
Italy - Mediaset revenue grows with pay-DTT services
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset has reported an increase of 2.3% in its revenue for the first half of 2007 compared with the same period in 2006. Consolidated net revenues for the first six months of 2007 reached EUR 1,505.8 million, compared with EUR 1,472.2 million in 2006.
:: 10/09/2007
France - TV Numéric launches pay-DTT bouquet
The broadcast regulator CSA has approved TV Numéric as a new distributor of pay-DTT services. This is the third distributor, alongside Canal+ and Neotion, authorised to distribute pay-DTT services.
:: 10/09/2007
Spain - Interactive trial in Seville
Two cities in the region of Seville, San Juan de Aznalfarache and Castilleja de la Cuesta, will undertake an interactive DTT trial using the MHP standard.
:: 09/09/2007
Netherlands - 500,000 DTT subscribers by end of year
Pay DTT operator Digitenne expects to have 500,000 subscribers by the end of the year. According to Baptiest Coopmans, member of the board at parent company KPN, Digitenne has over 25,000 new subscribers each month.
:: 07/09/2007
France - DTT broadcasters agree to 95% population coverage
In exchange for a five extension to the duration of their DTT license, broadcasters recent to the terrestrial platform have agreed to increase the coverage area of their services to 95% of the population by the end of 2011.
:: 07/09/2007
Austria - Regional ASO on 24 September
On 24 September, digital switchover will be completed in the Styria (Steiermark) region of Austria. Specifically, the areas of Schöckl, Graz, Loeben, Kapfenberg and Kalwang will no longer be able to access analogue terrestrial television services.
:: 07/09/2007
Iran - DVB-H trial launched in Tehran
A DVB-H trial offering viewers 16 television programme services is set to launch in Tehran. The national broadcaster IRIB and its affiliated company TAKTA will undertake the trial.
:: 06/09/2007
Neotion introduces next-generation MPEG-4 decoder
Neotion has introduced NP4+, its latest generation MPEG-4 AVC decoder that can be inserted in the common interface (DVB-CI) of iDTVs.
:: 06/09/2007
Germany - Launch of DTT services in Pfalz
On 4 December, the region of Pfalz in the Rhineland-Palatinate will complete its digital switchover with the switch-off of its analogue terrestrial television platform. DTT services will be launched on 11 September.
:: 06/09/2007
United Kingdom - S4C to launch text services on Freeview
The Welsh language broadcaster S4C is launching its Digital Text service on the free-to-air DTT platform. The service uses MHEG-5 middleware developed by emuse absolutely.
:: 06/09/2007
Cabot achieves Freeview Playback compliance
Cabot Communications has announced that Aurora XT, Cabot’s DVB middleware suite, has achieved Freeview Playback Group 1 & 2 compliance. Cabot is the first software vendor to achieve this accreditation.
:: 05/09/2007
France - Neotion launches its NP5
Neotion has announced that it will launch a low-power MPEG-4 AVC processor, Neotion Processor 5 (NP5). The processor can be used by set-top box manufacturers to build a range of low cost MPEG-4 decoders.
:: 05/09/2007
France - Multiplex reorganisation set for 13 September
To make the necessary capacity available for local DTT services, the broadcast regulator CSA has approved a plan for the reorganisation of several DTT services. By changing a few television programme slots, it will be possible to add one new service slot in Multiplex R1.
:: 05/09/2007
France - Re-organisation of DTT multiplexes
The television programme services on several DTT multiplexes have been changed so as to make room for local DTT services. The change will take place on 13 September at 6.00.
:: 05/09/2007
Taiwan - PSB trials DVB-H services
The public service broadcaster PTS has begun a DVB-H trial in the northern region of Taiwan. The trial will run until the end of the year.
:: 04/09/2007
France - Government declares support for HD/DTT
The Minister of Culture, Christine Albanel, wants the television services on the DTT platform to be available in high-definition (HD). She stated: "In 2012, HD will become the standard for television broadcasting just as colour television is today."
:: 03/09/2007
Spain - MHP-DTT consortium set up
Four companies have set up the consortium Maat Media to develop MHP-based DTT applications. The companies are Gknowledge, SDI Digital, HyC and Multicanal del Cable.
:: 03/09/2007
Finland - ASO completed on 1 September
In the early morning of 1 September, 5 analogue transmission networks were switched off. The terrestrial platform is now completely digital.
:: 01/09/2007
Norway - Official launch of DTT services
DTT services have been launched in the country of Rogaland, in the southwestern part of the country. Services will be launched in Oslo on 6 September.
:: 31/08/2007
Portugal - Consultation opened on DTT
The communications regulator Anacom has opened a consultation on its plans to launch DTT services. Five DTT multiplexes will be available, two of which will offer nationwide coverage.
:: 31/08/2007
Ireland - ComReg opens consultation on DTT multiplex licenses
The Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) has opened for consultation its proposal for licenses on the free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 30/08/2007
Germany - Continued growth of terrestrial platform
According to research published by TNS Infratest, the number of terrestrial households has climbed from 9.2% to 11.5% in the past year.
:: 30/08/2007
Czech Republic - ASO in Domažlicku
The region of Domažlicku in the southwestern part of the Czech Republic will begin analogue switch-off on 31 August.
:: 30/08/2007
Portugal - Draft DTT bill approved
The government has approved a draft bill that will allow for the launch of DTT services. As a first step, it will be possible for the regulator to invite candidates to tender for two DTT licenses.
:: 30/08/2007
United Kingdom - Set-top box for £10
The British supermarket chain Tesco has launched a set-top box for £10. It claims to be the cheapest DTT set-top box currently available on the market.
:: 29/08/2007
Nigeria - DVB-H services to launch in September
Nigeria will launch DVB-H services in September. Services will be free-to-air in the pre-commercial period set to last until the end of the year.
:: 29/08/2007
Uruguay - Uruguay selects DVB-T standard
Uruguay has officially selected DVB-T and DVB-H for its terrestrial television services. This decision follows extensive testing undertaken of the DVB, ATSC and ISDB-T standards.
:: 23/08/2007
Australia - New DVB-H trial in Sydney
Thomson, together with Irdeto, has launched a DVB-H trial in the region of Sydney. Viewers can access five television programme services including CNN, Boomerang, ABC, ABC2, and SBS.
:: 23/08/2007
France - Mobile TV business model conflict
According to an article in the business newspaper Les Echos, two different business models for the delivery of mobile television services is emerging. While some broadcasters would like a free-to-air business model, mobile telecom operators prefer the use of a pay model.
:: 22/08/2007
Finland - Digita announces DTT network roll-out plan
The network operator Digita has released its updated roll-out schedule for sub-transmission stations. By putting in place 48 new relay transmitters, Digita will enhance the coverage of the DTT services on multiplexes A and B.
:: 22/08/2007
Austria - Regional capitals to complete ASO
All regional capitals in Austria will have completed digital switchover by the end of October. Such cities as Vienna and Graz have confirmed their analogue switch-off dates.
:: 22/08/2007
Spain - DTT penetration reaches 19%
According to the latest figures published by Impulsa TDT, 19.4% of households access DTT services in Spain. However, important differences remain between regions.
:: 22/08/2007
Hungary - Regulator prepares for DTT licensing
The National Communications Authority (NHH) has issued for consultation its plans for the allocation of DVB-T licenses. The licenses allow for the operation of 5 national DTT multiplexes, of which 3 multiplexes are immediately available while 2 multiplexes will be available after analogue switch-off is completed at the end of 2011.
:: 22/08/2007
United Kingdom - Channel 4 launches 4+1
The broadcaster Channel 4 has launched a time-shifted version of its flagship television programme service, Channel 4, on the DTT platform. Channel 4+1 offers viewers the replica of Channel 4 with a delay of one hour.
:: 21/08/2007
United States - NAB outlines DTV educational effort
In a letter addressed to the head of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the joint chairman of the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Jack Sander has outlined the educational campaign NAB is undertaking to inform the public about digital switchover.
:: 21/08/2007
France - NTF to distribute pay-DTT services by end of year
Neotion TNT France (NTF) has announced that it will launch its pay-DTT services in December 2007. A licensed distributor of DTT services, NTF plans to offer a low-cost DTT solution for viewers.
:: 20/08/2007
Tunisia - 90% DTT coverage by 2009
DTT services will be available to 90% of the population by 2009. A DTT pilot, led by the Office for National Broadcasting (ONT), has been available in Tunis since 2001.
:: 20/08/2007
France - Four candidates for HD/DTT licenses
The broadcast regulator Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel (CSA) announced that four commercial broadcasters have applied for the two available HD/DTT licenses. The CSA expects to deliver the licenses by the end of the year.
:: 17/08/2007
United States - FCC to auction 700 MHz licenses
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has opened for consultation its plans to auction 700 MHz band licenses. The auction is expected to take place on 16 January 2008.
:: 16/08/2007
Germany - Local DTT services in Leipzig
Several commercial broadcasters have expressed their interest in joining the DTT platform in the city of Leipzig. These broadcasters include Leipzig Fernsehen, BBC World, Bibel TV and a new local city information service. In addition, two local radio services also want to join the DTT platform.
:: 15/08/2007
United States - IBM to lead DSO coupon scheme
The Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has selected IBM to provide services for the Digital-to-Analogue Converter Box Coupon Programme.
:: 15/08/2007
Spain - Government prepares regulation for mobile TV
The Spanish Government is currently finalising the necessary regulation to allow for the launch of mobile television services. The new regulation is expected to be completed by September.
:: 15/08/2007
Finland - Up to 40,000 households need to convert to DTT
The head of Finland’s TV 2007 project group, Tauno Äijälä, has warned that between 20,000 and 40,000 households risk losing television reception if they do not acquire a DTT receiver. Analogue switch-off is set to take place on 31 August.
:: 15/08/2007
Germany - Mobile operators can apply for joint DVB-H license
The Federal Competition Authority has given provisional approval for a joint bid by T-Mobile, O2 and Vodafone a national DVB-H license in Germany. Because certain competition concerns need to be addressed, final approval is not expected until the end of September.
:: 14/08/2007
United Kingdom - Half of homes ready for switchover
According to research published by Ofcom and Digital UK, half of all homes in the United Kingdom receive digital services on all of their television sets. The research also shows a steady increase in public awareness and understanding of switchover.
:: 14/08/2007
Netherlands - DVB-H services to launch in 2008
The DTT service provider (and telco) KPN has announced that it will launch DVB-H services during the 2008 Summer Olympics. Through its subsidiary Digitenne, which provides pay DTT services, KPN holds a license for DVB-H transmissions.
:: 11/08/2007
Malaysia - Analogue switch-off by 2015
Digital switchover is expected to be completed in Malaysia by 2015. Currently, only pay satellite services has made digital services available to viewers.
:: 10/08/2007
Finland - Multiplex E to launch on 1 September
The number of pay-DTT services will increase in Finland following the launch of a new multiplex on 1 September. A total of 7 new television programme services will be made available to viewers.
:: 09/08/2007
Spain - Impulsa TDT lauches DTT campaign
Impulsa TDT, the association of DTT stakeholders, has launched a campaign to promote DTT services among communal antenna residences. The campaign seeks to inform communal antenna residences of the advantages of DTT services and how to prepare for analogue switch-off in 2010.
:: 09/08/2007
Digital TV Labs supports UK and Swedish DVB-T specification
Digital TV Labs, specialists in conformance testing for digital television receivers, has announced that it now provides support for receiver DVB-T specifications in the United Kingdom and Sweden.
:: 08/08/2007
United Kingdom - UKTV to launch G2 on Freeview
According to Digital Spy, UKTV is considering replacing UKTV Bright Ideas with UKTV G2 on the DTT platform.
:: 08/08/2007
United Kingdom - Digital UK targets store sales team for DSO information
Digital UK, the organisation set-up to lead digital switchover, has announced a range of initiatives in partnership with retail trade companies to help improve switchover knowledge among sales staff.
:: 08/08/2007
Finland - Government calls on YLE to support mobile TV
The Communications Minister, Suvi Lindén, has called on the public broadcaster YLE to begin mobile television services as soon as possible in order to help boost the development of such services.
:: 07/08/2007
Germany - DVB-H license to be awarded at end of August
Regulators are expected to issue a national DVB-H broadcast license by the end of August. Parties interested in obtaining a DVB-H broadcast license include a consortium of telcom operators (T-Mobile, O2 and Vodafone), Premiere, ProSiebenSat.1 and the RTL Group.
:: 06/08/2007
Saudi Arabia - Dubai launches DVB-H trial
A DVB-H trial has been launched by Media&Broadcast, a subsidiary of T-Systems, in the city of Dubai. The trial will run until the end of 2007.
:: 03/08/2007
Ukraine - DTT license awarded in Kiev and Zhitomyr
The Ukraine has awarded a DTT license to Kvant-Efir for the operation of a single frequency network using the MPEG-4 AVC video compression standard. The license covers the areas of Kiev and Zhitomyr.
:: 03/08/2007
Czech Republic - TV Nova to help with switchover
The leading commercial broadcaster, TV Nova has announced that it will providing funding for digital switchover in the region of Domazlice. This region, located near the German border, is to complete analogue switch-off by the end of the year.
:: 03/08/2007
Report suggests 43 Million European subscribers for mobile TV by 2012
Nearly 43 million Europeans to subscribe to mobile TV by 2012, Datamonitor says
:: 02/08/2007
Italy - Parliament committees approve proposal on using digital dividend
Two Parliamentary committees have approved the proposals in the digital television bill on how the digital dividend should be allocated. The frequency channels used by Rete 4 and RAI Due may be allocated to the broadcast service Europa 7 rather than be reussed by Mediaset and RAI.
:: 01/08/2007
Spain - Hogar 10 launched on DTT platform
The commercial broadcaster La Sexta has launched a new television programme service on the DTT platform. The service, called Hogar 10, offers family programming incuding soap operas and sitcoms.
:: 30/07/2007
Switzerland - Two applicants for mobile TV license
The Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) has announced that it received appications from Mobile TV Schweiz and Swisscom Broadcast for the license to provide national mobile television services.
:: 30/07/2007
United Kingdom - Arqiva secures SDN network upgrade
Arqiva has been awarded the contract to upgrade the SDN multiplex to a high power digital network. The contract is estimated to be worth some £500 million (€685m) over its 27-year term.
:: 30/07/2007
Netherlands - 337,000 DTT subscribers for Digitenne
337,000 digital TV subs for KPN
:: 30/07/2007
Italy - DTT household penetration reaches 19%
Recent data suggests that 4.5 million households accessed DTT services in Italy at the end of June 2007. This represents a total of 19.2% of all Italian households.
:: 27/07/2007
France - CSA opens consultation on local DTT services
The French broadcast regulator, CSA, has opened a consultation on local DTT services. It plans to make the necessary space available on the national multiplex R1 for the delivery of free-to-air DTT services in 25 regions.
:: 27/07/2007
United Kingdom - Revised D-Book now available
The Digital Television Group (DTG), representing all members of the television value chain, has issued a revised version of its D Book (version 5.0). The D Book provides a code of practice for the DTT industry.
:: 25/07/2007
France - CSA allows for launch of 25 local DTT services
The Conseil Supérieur de l'Audiovisuel (CSA) has given its approval for the launch of 18 local DTT services. These services are currently available on the local analogue platform.
:: 25/07/2007
France - New sites selected for DTT expansion
The broadcast regulator Conseil Supérieur de l'Audiovisuel (CSA) has selected 65 new sites that will broadcast DTT services by the end of March 2008. This expansion of DTT services ensures that all regional capitals (chef-lieux des departements) can access DTT services.
:: 25/07/2007
United Kingdom - 33 million unsure about ASO
According to research by uSwitch.com, an estimated 33 million people are unsure when digital switchover will take place in their region.
:: 24/07/2007
France - 19.5% DTT penetration
In the latest figures published by the network operator TDF in its Baromètre Télévision Numérique N°4 , 5 million households now access DTT services. This is a total of 19.5% of the population.
:: 24/07/2007
United Kingdom - Nuts TV to launch on Freeview
A new television programme service, Nuts TV, is expected to launch on the free-to-air DTT platform this Autumn. Nuts TV will be available every day between 21.00 - 1.00 starting from 12 September.
:: 24/07/2007
Philippines - Launch of commercial DVB-H services
DVB-H services have been launched in several cities in the Philippines including Manila, Cebu, Davao, Tagaytay, Batangas, and Baguio City. Coverage is soon to be extended to Boracay and Cagayan de Oro.
:: 19/07/2007
Poland - DTT ready to start in 2008
A new working document preparedby the Ministry of Transport, states that official DTT services could be launched in June 2008. According to the digitalisation plan, analogue and digital services will be simulcast for one year, with analogue switch-off set to begin in 2009.
:: 18/07/2007
European Commission unveils its mobile TV strategy
The European Commission (EC) has published its strategy for the adoption of mobile television services across its 27 Member-States. Entitled Communication on Strengthening the Internal Market for Mobile TV, the paper urges industry and Member-States to facilitate and accelerate the deployment of mobile TV.
:: 18/07/2007
Belgium - Digital switchover plan approved
The government for the French-speaking community in Belgium has approved the proposed Strategic Plan for Digital Switchover presented by the Minister of Culture. This plan calls for the end of analogue television services by November 2011.
:: 18/07/2007
Italy - EC seeks compliance with rules on electronic communications
The European Commission (EC) has sent to the Italian government a second formal request that it changes its current broadcasting legislation. According the the EC, the Italian legislation does not comply with the EU Regulatory Framework for Electronic Communications.
:: 18/07/2007
Netherlands - KPNTV rebaptised Digitenne
The Dutch DTT platform operator, KPN, has announced that the platform will revert to its original Digitenne branding. Previously, the platform had been known as KPNTV following its acquisition by KPN.
:: 18/07/2007
Italy - RAI to get E33m from [government] budget for DTT
Italy’s Communications Minister, Paolo Gentiloni, has signed a ministerial decree assigning E33m to RAI for expanding digital terrestrial TV coverage throughout Italy during 2007.
:: 17/07/2007
Italy - National frequency database unveiled
A single national television frequency database is now available in Italy with the aim of ensuring efficient use of spectrum. The database, launched last year, waa unveiled by the communications minister Paolo Gentiloni, and the Chairman of the communications guarantee authority (AGCOM), Corrado Calabrò.
:: 16/07/2007
Ireland - First HD broadcast on trial DTT platform
As part of its DTT trial, the Leinster Football final in Dublin was broadcast in high-definition. This was the first HD transmission on the DTT network.
:: 13/07/2007
Austria - 6 new services for DTT platform
Six new television programme services will be launched on the DTT platform. They will be part of the second DTT multiplex to be launched in October.
:: 12/07/2007
Spain - DTT industry claims for state subsidies to boost sales
The Spanish DTT industry has urged the Government to approve direct state subsidies to boost the sale of DTT boxes in the country, following the example of the UK, France and Italy.
:: 11/07/2007
France - Request to rebaptise Europe 2 TV
The media group Lagardère has asked the broadcast regulator Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel (CSA) for permission to change the name of its television programme service from Europe 2 TV to Virgin.
:: 10/07/2007
France - CSA announces plans for DTT coverage extension
The French broadcast regulator, CSA, has adopted the a plan for the coverage extension of DTT services. The plan ensures a 95% coverage by 2011 for those DTT services currently on the analogue terrestrial platform.
:: 09/07/2007
Czech Republic - New service on trial DTT platform
The Czech satellite service Public TV will soon launch on the trial DTT platform. The service will be incorporated into multiplex B, operated by the Czech Digtial Group (CDG).
:: 07/07/2007
Switzerland - Tender open for DVB-H license
The Swiss communications regulator, BAKOM, has announced that it will allocate a national license for the provision of mobile television services. While it does not specify which standard to use, BAKOM is understood to favour DVB-H.
:: 06/07/2007
Portugal - PT Multimedia ineligible for DTT license
It is expected that PT Multimedia will not be allowed to bid for a DTT license given its predominant position in the cable industry.
:: 06/07/2007
Czech Republic - Delay in launch of TV Nova in northern region
A disagreement between the commercial broadcaster TV Nova and the network operator Radiokomunikace have caused a delay in the roll-out of TV Nova's DTT services in the northern part of the country.
:: 06/07/2007
Poland - POT to continue DTT trial
The Polish Office of Electronic Communication (UKE) has granted an extension to DTT trials being undertaken by the POT consortium. The extension lasts until the end of the year.
:: 05/07/2007
Sweden - Continued growth for Boxer
At the end of June 2007, DTT service provider Boxer had 678,000 DTT subscribers. This represents an increase of 24,000 subscribers during the first half of the year and an increase of 6,000 in the second quarter.
:: 05/07/2007
United Kingdom - Ofcom issues information on DTT transmission characteristics
Ofcom has issued a document outlining the transmission characteristics that the 81 transmitters currently carrying DTT services will have following digital switchover.
:: 05/07/2007
Germany - 9.59 million digital homes
According to figures from AGF/GfK Fernsehforschung, there are now 9.59 million digital households in Germany. This figure includes digital households across all television platforms, including terrestrial (DTT), cable and satellite.
:: 04/07/2007
Switzerland - ASO in French-speaking region
The French-speaking region of Switzerland has completely switched off its analogue terrestrial television platform on 25 June at 14.00.
:: 03/07/2007
Finland - Digita launches DVB-H service
The broadcast network operator Digita has launched its DVB-H service. Three television programme services are available, as well as several radio services.
:: 03/07/2007
Hungary - Antenna Hungaria and Vodafone to cooperate with DVB-H
Antenna Hungária and Vodafone have signed a declaration of intent to cooperate for the launch of DVB-H services in Hungary. The two companies have agreed to conduct a joint commercial trial, likely to take place in autumn, prior to the commercial launch of service.
:: 02/07/2007
Samsung launches new mobile TV chip
Samsung Electronics has launched a 65 nanometer multi-standard channel decoder and multi-band radio frequency (RF) tuner chipset.
:: 28/06/2007
The broadcaster Viasat and the broadcast network operator TDC have joined forced to launch a DVB-H trial. The trial will take place in June and July.
:: 28/06/2007
Italy - European Commission approves Italian DTV subsidy
The European Commission (EC) has decided that the subsidies granted by the Italian government for the purchase of digital television reception equipment is in compliance with EC Treaty state aid rules.
:: 27/06/2007
United Kingdom - United Kingdom - Reaction on the Ofcom BSkyB DTT announcement
A story from Guardian Unlimited following yesterday's announcement from Ofcom of a a public consultation on proposals to replace Sky’s free channels with pay TV services on the Freeview DTT platform is entitled:
:: 27/06/2007
United Kingdom - Ofcom public consultation on BSkyB DTT plans
Ofcom announced on the 26 June that it will conduct a public consultation on proposals from BSkyB (Sky) and National Grid Wireless Ltd (NGW) to replace Sky’s free channels with pay TV services on the digital terrestrial television (DTT) platform (Freeview).
:: 22/06/2007
United Kingdom - Channel 4 to receive DSO funding
The Minister of Culture, Tessa Jowell, has confirmed that the commercial broadcaster with public service obligations, Channel 4 will receive £14 million to help defray the cost of digital switchover.
:: 22/06/2007
Spain - Government proposes ASO plan
The Government has proposed its plan for analogue switch-off. It calls for the process to take place in four phases and to be completed by April 2010.
:: 22/06/2007
Czech Republic - Czech digital dispute hots up
The controversy over digital TV licences appears to be coming to a head in the Czech Republic. Yesterday (June 21) the country’s leading broadcaster TV Nova published a document outlining its support for digital broadcasting.
:: 21/06/2007
Hungary - Prepares for digital broadcasting
György Kovács, the president of the Hungarian National Radio and Television Commission (ORTT), has told Broadband TV News that the country is likely to have a full digital strategy in place by the second half of July.
:: 20/06/2007
United Kingdom - New DSO guide for landlords
Digital UK, the organisation leading digital switchover in the United Kingdom, has issued an Online Property Managers' Guide. This guide helps property managers prepare for digital switchover by offering practical advice and tools.
:: 20/06/2007
Macedonia (fyr) - Plans for turning a DTT trial into a full service
On.net, a telecoms operator hopes to encourage regulators to consider permitting it to operate a full DTT service after successful trials in the Skopje area covering a population 160,000.
:: 20/06/2007
United Kingdom - Latest digital TV survey figures from Ofcom for 1Q2007
The penetration of digital TV in UK homes broke through the 80% level in the first quarter of 2007 as Freeview DTT overtook Sky satellite subscribers, according to research published today by Ofcom.
:: 20/06/2007
France - Regulator calls for candidates to operate HDTV services
The French broadcast regulator (CSA) is inviting applications from candidates to operate new HDTV services on the fifth national coverage digital network (known as R5).
:: 20/06/2007
France - Regulator announces TNT extension to 70% by the end of July
The French broadcasting regulator CSA (Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel) has announced a further extension to coverage of digital terrestrial television over the next few weeks.
:: 20/06/2007
United Kingdom - United Kingdom - Ofcom announces payments for broadcast spectrum
Ofcom has announced measures to become active in 2014 which will require digital terrestrial television and radio broadcasters to pay fees for the use of frequency spectrum. They intend these "to provide clear incentives for the efficient use of the radio spectrum used by terrestrial television and radio broadcasters".
:: 19/06/2007
United Kingdom - Ofcom to charge for spectrum use
Ofcom has announced that it would like broadcasters to pay an annual fee for their use of spectrum. The Administered Incentive Pricing (AIP) is to be introduced in 2014.
:: 18/06/2007
Germany - Tele 5 on regional DTT platform
The general entertainment television service, Tele 5, has been allocated a license for the DTT platform in North-Rhine Westphalia.
:: 18/06/2007
United Kingdom - DSO bill receives Royal Assent
The Digital Switchover (Disclosure of Information) Bill has received Royal Assent. Following the approval from Parliament, it has now received approval from the Queen.
:: 15/06/2007
Norway - RiksTV confirms service offering
The pay-DTT operator, RiksTV, has announced that it will offer between 12 and 16 television programme services as part of its pay package Rikspakken.
:: 15/06/2007
Sweden - DTT platform likely to be opened to new service providers
The Swedish government is likely to propose new legislation that will allow new providers to offer pay-DTT services. This follows from the concerns raised by the European Commission about Boxer's position as the sole provider of pay-DTT services.
:: 15/06/2007
ASEAN minister endorse DVB-T standard
The ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI) have agreed to use the DVB-T standard for DTT services. This follows on a previous recommendation made by the ASEAN Digital Broadcasting Council.
:: 15/06/2007
Since 15 June, viewers can access the 18 free-to-air services available on the DTT platform via the satellite platform. Canal+ has made the services available on the satellite ASTRA since 15 June as part of a pilot. Officially services are expected to launch in September.
:: 14/06/2007
France - Results of the mobile TV consultation
The broadcast regulator, CSA, has published the results of its consultation on mobile television services. It received 47 responses from broadcasters, manufacturers, as well as mobile and network operators.
:: 13/06/2007
United Kingdom - Disabled, and older viewers will require support for DSO
Ofcom’s Advisory Committee on Older and Disabled People and Digital UK published research which highlights the potential impact of digital switchover on disabled, older, isolated and low income consumers.
:: 12/06/2007
Czech Republic - High court restores DTT licenses
The Czech High Court (NSS) has overturned a previous ruling by the Prague Court that withdrew DTT licences awarded to six broadcasters (TV Barrandov, Febio TV, TV Pohoda, Z1, Ocko and RTA) in April 2006.
:: 07/06/2007
Italy - Capacity to be made available for new broadcasters
It is expected that the Communications Authority, AgCom, will tender DTT capacity at the end of July. Approximately 40% of capacity on the existing DTT network will be made available to new broadcasters.
:: 06/06/2007
Spain - DTV accessed in nearly 6 million homes
Digital television is now accessed in 5.92 million Spanish households. The majority of these households use the terrestrial platform to access digital services.
:: 06/06/2007
Italy - Launch of France 24 on DTT platform
The French international news service, France 24, has been launched on the Italian DTT platform. The service is distributed by the broadcaster Telecentro Toscana.
:: 06/06/2007
France - CSA selects broadcasters for DTT services in Paris
The French broadcast regulator, CSA, has selected the broadcasters to receive DTT licenses to transmit services in the region of Paris. It is expected that the services will begin by the end of 2007.
:: 05/06/2007
Hong Kong - Preparations underway for DTT launch
In preparation for the launch of DTT services later this year, the Telecommunications Authority has announced that it will adopt the Chinese standard for DTT services.
:: 04/06/2007
Germany - DTT services to launch in Saarland
The state of Saarland, along the western border with France and Luxembourg, will launch DTT services by the end of the year.
:: 04/06/2007
France - Growing audience share for DTT platform
In research conducted by the audience measurement firm Mediamétrie, the free-to-air services on the DTT platform have a growing number of viewers. This is to the detriment of the traditional broadcasters on the terrestrial platform.
:: 04/06/2007
Estonia - HD/DTT trial to begin
Public service broadcaster ETV and network operator Levira have agreed to launch an HD/DTT pilot. The pilot aims to determine the necessary technical requirements for HD broadcasting.
:: 01/06/2007
United Kingdom - Launch of Playback advertising campaign
The media campaign for the Freeview Playback digital video recorder is to be launched on 11 June. Online advertising will be at the centre of the campaign with promotions on lastminute.co.uk, timeout.co.uk and MSN.
:: 31/05/2007
Austria - ASO continues in Salzburg and Linz
Analogue switch-off is set to take place in the regions of Salzburg, Linz and Amstetten in the coming month. Already, analogue switch-off took place in the Vorarlberg region in March and in Tirol in May.
:: 31/05/2007
France - Audience share of DTT services grows
Traditional broadcasters on the terrestrial platform are facing significant audience erosion since the launch of DTT services. According to Médiamétrie, the DTT services increased their combined average audiences by 3.1% to 17.1% in May 2007.
:: 31/05/2007
Austria - Regulator prepares for launch of DVB-H services
Austria is preparing to launch mobile television services using the DVB-H services. The services are expected to be launched by the summer of 2008, in time for the EURO 2008 football championship.
:: 29/05/2007
United Kingdom - Ofcom postpones spectrum auctions
The UK Regulator Ofcom has published today the results of its consultation on the Digital Dividend.
:: 29/05/2007
Sweden - HDTV launches on Terrestrial Transmissions
On Saturday 26 May the broadcast network operator Teracom started transmissions of high-definition TV on the digital terrestial network in Stockholm and the surrounding areas.
:: 28/05/2007
Italy - Mediaset Premium set to break even
Commercial broadcaster Mediaset has announced that its pay-DTT service, Mediaset Premium, is set to break even by the end of the year. According to Mediaset Premium director, Marco Leonardi, the service has performed better than had been expected.
:: 25/05/2007
Sweden - HD/DTT services begin
The network operator Teracom will begin to transmit HDTV services from one multiplex on the DTT platform. Viewers will be able to access HD services from the public service broadcaster SVT.
:: 24/05/2007
Spain - DTT coverage to reach 85% of population
The coverage of DTT services will soon increase from 80% of the population to 85%. This is in accordance with the obligations set forth in DTT legislation.
:: 22/05/2007
Poland - POT trial to begin in Warsaw and Wielkopolska
Polski Operator Telewizyjny (POT), the joint venture set up commercial broadcasters Polsat and TVN, will start DTT trials in Warsaw and the Wielkopolska region by May 30.
:: 16/05/2007
France - Funding for digital switchover in the border regions
The Prime Minister has issued a decree establishing a digital switchover fund. This fund will ensure the continued reception of terrestrial television households in areas along the French border.
:: 16/05/2007
France - 'France Télé Numérique' to oversee analogue switch-off
The responsibility for managing ASO has been given to a newly set up organisation called France Télé Numérique. The members of this public body are the government with public and private broadcasters (France Télévisions, Arte-France, TF1, Métropole Télévison and Canal Plus).
:: 16/05/2007
France - Public Consultation in favour of HD on terrestrial
The French regulator for TV services (CSA - Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel) has announced positive results from its public consulation launched in December last year into the opinions of stakeholders on their feelings about the introduction of HDTV services in terrestrial transmissions.
:: 15/05/2007
France - CSA publishes responses to its HD/DTT consultation
The Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel (CSA) has published the responses to its consultation on HDTV on the terrestrial platform. A total of 18 responses were received.
:: 15/05/2007
Estonia - ETV joins DTT platform
The public service broadcaster Estonian National TV (ETV) has launched its services on the DTT platform. It is the first free-to-air service to join the DTT platform, called ZUUMtv.
:: 15/05/2007
Germany - Kartellamt looks at DVB-H consortium
The German competition authority Bundeskartellamt is looking at the consortium of mobile operators Vodafone, T-Mobile and O2. The group wants to offer a nationwide DVB-H bouquet of 16 channels scheduled for a launch in the spring of 2008.
:: 11/05/2007
United Kingdom - BT launches BT Vision - a hybrid IPTV/Freeview service
BT reveals its Vision to the public
BT has unveiled its ‘TV on your terms’ advertising campaign as its launches its BT Vision IPTV product to the general public. A national TV advertising campaign will begin on Saturday evening during ITV’s popular Grease is the Word talent contest to be supported by print and online ads. The product will be available in the, arguably upscale, retailer John Lewis and from the summer the electrical specialist Comet.
:: 09/05/2007
Broadcasting minister Shaun Woodward has indicated there will be no special treatment for the terrestrial broadcasters seeking gifted capacity for HD transmissions.
:: 09/05/2007
Hungary - Swisscom Broadcast is to sell Antenna Hungaria to TDF
Swisscom is to sell the Hungarian broadcasting and transmission company Antenna Hungaria to France’s TDF for SF540 million (€327.5 million).
:: 09/05/2007
Netherlands - KPN digital TV numbers
Dutch incumbent telecom operator KPN said it had 296,000 TV customers at March 30, 2007. Almost all of these are DTT homes subscribing to the Digitenne DTT service.
:: 01/05/2007
United Kingdom - DSO captions to appear in Whitehaven
In preparation for digital switchover, viewers in Whitehaven, Cumbria will see captions about analogue switch-off on the analogue television channels BBC1, BBC2, ITV and Channel 4.
:: 27/04/2007
France - Establishment of France Télé numérique
The Prime Minister has agree to the creation of an organisation with a public interest (groupement d'intérêt public), France Télé numérique. This organisation will be responsible for leading digital switchover.
:: 26/04/2007
Turkey - DTT services to begin in Autumn
DTT services are expected to begin in October with services available in 13 major cities. Anten, the recently established network operator, will launch the services.
:: 25/04/2007
Slovakia - Regulator criticizes broadcast legislation
The Slovak Telecom Office (TU SR) has expressed its misgiving with the current digital broadcast legislation. It believes that the current date for analogue switch-off, 2012, is unrealistic.
:: 23/04/2007
Austria - 32 applicants for DTT platform
With a second DTT multiplex set to be launched in October, 32 candidates have applied for a slot. Of these, 16 are television broadcasters while 16 are radio broadcaters.
:: 20/04/2007
Spain - DTT services to be available on the Internet
Network operator Abertis and Microsoft have agreed to a new project in which they will deliver services available on the DTT platform via Internet. The project has been named TDT.com.
:: 19/04/2007
Turkey - Broadcasters form new transmission company to roll-out DTT network
Members of the Television Broadcasters Association (TVYD) have formed a new transmission company, Anten A.S., to build and operatre the DTT platform. The DTT network is expected to be rolled out this year in 13 major cities with gradual extension to follow.
:: 19/04/2007
United Kingdom - Freeview overtakes BSkyB as largest digital platform
Freeview, the free-to-air DTT platform, has overtaken satellite provider BSkyB to become the most popular digital platform in the United Kingdom.
:: 17/04/2007
Switzerland - ASO in German-speaking region on 26 November
Digital switchover is expected to be completed in the German-speaking part of Switzerland on 26 November. At this time, all analogue services will be switched off.
:: 17/04/2007
Czech Republic - ASO in Domazlicko on 30 June
Domazlicko is set to switch-off its analogue services on 30 June, making it the first region in the Czech Republic to complete digital switchover.
:: 17/04/2007
Italy - ASO begins in Valle d'Aosta
Regional switch-off continues in Italy with the switch-off of analogue channels Rai Due and Retequattro in the Valle d'Aosta on 16 April. The switch-off affects 600,000 residents in the city of Aosta and its 16 neighbouring municipalities.
:: 16/04/2007
Samsung and Nokia agree to cooperate on DVB-H interoperability
Consumer electronics manufacturers Samsung and Nokia have agreed to work towards achieving interoperability for their DVB-H receivers as well as the Nokia network services system.
:: 16/04/2007
France - Possible merger between LCI and iTélé on DTT platform
Canal+ and TF1, two broadcasters on the French DTT platform, are considering the possibility of merging their television news services.
:: 13/04/2007
Spain - Over 4 million DTT receivers sold
Sales of DTT receivers has been strong in the first part of 2007. In February, over 300,000 receivers were sold, up 152% compared with sales figures for the same month last year. This brings DTT receiver sales to a total of 4.1 million.
:: 12/04/2007
Italy - Over 5 million DTT receivers sold
The latest research from GfK shows that 5,006,867 DTT receivers have been sold between the time of the launch of DTT services in February 2004 and February 2007. The government aims to have 21 million DTT receivers in television households in time for analogue switch-off in 2012.
:: 12/04/2007
Poland - New service available on trial DTT platform
The public service broadcaster, TVP, has included its sports service, TVP Sport, on its DTT trial in the Wisla/Góra Skrzyczne region. Already, the DTT trial provides viewers with access to national services TVP1 and TVP2 as well as the regional service TVP3.
:: 12/04/2007
Finland - YLE delays DVB-H launch
The public service broadcaster YLE has announced that it will not launch its DVB-H services until at least the end of the year. Reasons for the delay include copyright issues that need to be sorted and the limited number of DVB-H handsets on the market.
:: 12/04/2007
Sweden - Boxer adds 18,000 new subscribers in Q1 2007
Boxer has reported that 18,000 new households subscribed to its services in the first quarter of 2007. With a total of 672,000 subscribers, Boxer has had a growth of 18% compared with last year when it had 569,000 subscribers.
:: 10/04/2007
France - ASO to begin in Autumn 2007
According to information received by ZDnet.fr, analogue switch-off could begin in France as early as Autumn 2007. This will affect those regions where frequencies are scarce, generally along national borders where frequencies must be shared between countries.
:: 10/04/2007
France - CSA favourable to government DSO funding plans
Following the request of the Ministry of Culture and Communications, the Conseil Supérieur de l'Audiovisuel (CSA) has delivered its opinion on the proposed funding for digital switchover.
:: 10/04/2007
Hungary - Launch of DVB-H trial
Network operator Antenna Hungaria , together with telecom operator T-Mobile launched a technical DVB-H trial on 1 April. The trial is expected to last for several months.
:: 05/04/2007
France - Further expansion of DTT coverage
The fifth phase of DTT roll-out has been launched on 31 March. Residents in eight additional regions are now able to access DTT services, bringing the total DTT coverage to 68% of the French population.
:: 05/04/2007
Finland - YLE allows for central digital TV converters
The public service broadcaster, YLE, has announced that it will be possible to centrally down-convert its digital services to analogue following analogue switch-off.
:: 04/04/2007
France - Support for DVB-H as the mobile TV standard
In a presentation given at the Salon de la réception numérique, the Minister of Culture, Renaud Donnedieu de Vabres, has given his support for mobile TV using the DVB-H standard. He has also called for the rapid launch of commercial services.
:: 04/04/2007
Czech Republic - DTT license dispute may involve EC
The controversy surrounding the revokation of six DTT licenses last year has not ceased. The six license holders, represented by the Digital Television Association (ADT), are expected to look to the European Commission for help.
:: 04/04/2007
Germany - Local DTT services in Leipzig
The city of Leipzig has announced that it will trial regional DTT services. A single multiplex will be launched offering the services of four commercial broadcasters.
:: 03/04/2007
United Kingdom - Arqiva acquires National Grid Wireless for £2.5 billion
The broadcast network operator Arqiva has acquired rival network operator National Grid Wireless. The acquisition has cost Arqiva parent-comany Macquarie UK Broadcast Ventures Limited £2.5 billion.
:: 02/04/2007
ASEAN countries set to adopt DVB-T standard
Broadcasters representing the Association of Southeast Asian nations (ASEAN) have agreed to recommend the use of the DVB-T standard for DTT services. The recommendation will be made to the 9th Conference of the Asean Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI) due to take place in Jakarta in May 2007.
:: 02/04/2007
Tyrol will be the next region to switch-off its analogue services. Switch-off is expected to take place on 7 May.
:: 01/04/2007
Spain - Government may push for industry-led tuner mandation
The Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Joan Clos, has announced that the government is currently in negotiations with manufacturers to ensure the availability of DTT tuners in all television sets sold.
:: 30/03/2007
Italy - Pay-per-view DTT increases revenue for broadcasters
The pay-per-view (PPV) DTT service offered by commercial broadcasters in Italy is proving to be a success. Both Mediaset and Telecom Italia Media have reported increases in their PPV DTT revenue for the year 2006.
:: 29/03/2007
Spain - Government opens consultation on mobile TV
The Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce has opened a public consultation on mobile television to better understand industry needs for the commercial launch of services. The consultation is open until 26 April.
:: 29/03/2007
France - DTT penetration reaches 22%
Since the launch of DTT services in March 2005, 8.2 million DTT receivers are now in French households. This brings DTT penetration to 22% of all television households.
:: 28/03/2007
Sweden - Positive results for DVB-H trial
The DVB-H trial held in Stockholm garnered positive feedback from its 400 participants. Users expressed an interest in the service, with 87% saying they had a positive impression of the service.
:: 27/03/2007
United Kingdom - Pay-DTT price reduction
The pay DTT platform operator, Top Up TV, has reduced the price of its PVR/DTT receiver from £180 to £149.99. This price also includes the first month of subscription to the pay-DTT service.
:: 27/03/2007
Italy - Minister affirms Agcom's mandate in broadcast frequency allocation
The Italian Minister of Communications, Paolo Gentiloni, has announced that it will be the communications regulator, Agcom, that decides how to allocate available frequencies following analogue switch-off rather than incumbent broadcasters.
:: 27/03/2007
Spain - Regional broadcaster TV3 to provide HD/DTT
The regional broadcaster TV3 has announced that it will provide some HD services on the DTT platform. TV3 is available in the region of Catalonia.
:: 26/03/2007
Malaysia - Government adopts DVB-T standard
The Malaysian government decided to adopt the DVB-T standard for the provision of DTT services. This decision follows from the positive feedback from the DVB-T trial held in the Kuala Lumpur area.
:: 23/03/2007
Hungary - DTT license allocations likely in 2008
The National Communications Authority has announced that it is ready to allocate DTT licenses next year. However, such allocation is predicated on the adoption of the necessary legal framework allowing for the introduction of DTT services.
:: 22/03/2007
Italy - RAI trials IPTV/DTT hybrid set-top boxes
Rai Nuovi Media and RaiNet have launched an IPTV/DTT trial using a hybrid set-top box.
:: 22/03/2007
EC refers Greece to ECJ for failure to adopt new broadcast framework
The European Commission (EC) has referred Greece to the European Court of Justice (ECJ) due to its failure to adopt the Electronic Communications Directive (2002/77/EC). Previously, on 14 April 2005, the ECJ had ruled that Greece had failed to implement the Commission Directive.
:: 22/03/2007
Spain - New agreement to help promote DTT services
Impulsa TDT, the organisation responsible for promoting DTT services, the network operator Abertis and Aetic, the association representing the technology industry, has signed a cooperation agreement to help facilitate digital switchover.
:: 21/03/2007
Italy - ASO in the region of Val d'Aoste
The Val d'Aoste and its surrounding area will be the next region to switch-off analogue terrestrial television in Italy. This follows from the switch-off in Saridinia in early March.
:: 21/03/2007
Spain - DVB-H trial in Seville
The regional broadcast network operator Axion has launched a DVB-H trial in Seville. The French network operator TDF owns 67% of Axion.
:: 20/03/2007
South Africa - ASO set for November 2011
Digital switchover plans are underway in South Africa. In February, the Cabinet approved the analogue switch-off date of 1 November 2011. DTT services are expected to begin on 1 November 2008 to allow for a three year simulcast period.
:: 20/03/2007
Portugal - DTT license tender expected at end of year
The Portuguese Government has announced that it will postpone the tender of DTT frequency licenses until the end of the year.
:: 19/03/2007
United States - Converter boxes expected to cost $60
Consumer electronics group LG has announced that it expects retailers to charge $60 for DTT set-top boxes in the United States. LG is one of three companies to have developed NTSC to ATSC converter set-top boxes.
:: 19/03/2007
United Kingdom - Arqiva provides network services to Top Up TV Anytime
The broadcast network operator Arqiva will provide content integration, playout and distribution services for Top Up TV Anytime as part of a three-year agreement.
:: 18/03/2007
United Kingdom - Freeview broadcasters oppose Sky pay-DTT proposal
Leading broadcasters with shares in Freeview, the free-to-air DTT platform, are expected to request that Ofcom forfeits Sky's shares in Freeview should Sky replaces its free-to-air services with pay services.
:: 16/03/2007
Netherlands - Preparations for a DVB-H launch in 2007?
DVB-H services are expected to be launched in the Netherlands in the second half of 2007. The Dutch telecom operator KPN holds the necessary frequency license following its acquisition of Digitenne in 2006.
:: 16/03/2007
Spain - Local DTT licenses allocated in Andalucia
The Regional Government of Andalucia has begin allocating its regional DTT licenses. Local broadcaster Localia, Canal Sur, La 2 and Tele 5 have each been awarded one DTT television programme service slot.
:: 16/03/2007
European Commission calls for single mobile TV standard
The EU Commissioner for the Information Society and Media, Viviane Reding, has called for a proactive and coordinated European strategy for mobile television. Currently, countries are developing independent mobile TV solutions.
:: 15/03/2007
United Kingdom - 17 October set for first ASO date
Digital UK, the organisation tasked with coordinating digital switchover, has announced that the first analogue channel, BBC2, will be switched off in Whitehaven and the surrounding area on 17 October. The channel will be replaced by digital services.
:: 15/03/2007
EC calls for adoption of DVB-H standard, going against EMBC recommendations
The European Commissioner for Information Society and Media Viviane Reding is calling on legislators and the telcoms industry to must rapidly select a single mobile TV standard.
:: 15/03/2007
United Kingdom - Digital dividend debate heats up
Members of the HDforAll lobby group, comprised of broadcasters, retailers and manufacturers, are leading the call to make HDTV services available on the DTT platform. They have asked the government set aside frequencies for HD/DTT services.
:: 14/03/2007
Norway - Pay-DTT platform to be named RiksTV
The platform offering pay-DTT services in Norway has changed its name from NTV Pluss to RiksTV.
:: 14/03/2007
United Kingdom - ITV removes ITV Play from Freeview
Following the controversy surrounding the interactive services in the United Kingdom, ITV has removed its service ITV Play from the free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 14/03/2007
United Kingdom - DTV penetration reaches 77% at the end of 2006
The Christmas season proved to be a strong time of year for continued DTT growth. In the last three months of 2006, 2.4 million DTT receivers were sold making it the quarter with the highest sales figure.
:: 13/03/2007
Czech Republic - Digital switchover group set-up
The broadcast industry has created a new association, Digi Monitor, with the aim of following digital switchover. Digi Monitor is based on an initiative of the Czech Telecom Office (CTU) and the Czech Association of Competitive Communications (CACC).
:: 13/03/2007
Germany - Further DTT coverage in the North
DTT services have been launched in Lüneburger Heide and Wendland, located in the north eastern part of the Land of Lower Saxony. Viewers in these areas are able to receive 11 television programme services and 1 data services.
:: 12/03/2007
United States - $40 coupons for digital switchover available to all households
The Department of Commerce has announced that all US households will be eligible to receive two $40 coupons to use towards the use of a digital to analogue converter. Coupons can be requested as of 1 January 2008.
:: 09/03/2007
Italy - 3 Italia's commercial DVB-H results
3 Italia has announced that it has attracted over 250,000 subscribers to its DVB-H service since its launch in June 2006. For 3 Italia, this demonstrates that a market for mobile television exists.
:: 09/03/2007
Finland - PlusTV offers free smartcards to subscribers
Finland’s pay DTT operator, PlusTV, is allowing subscribers to acquire three additional smartcards for other television sets in the household. The cards will be available free of charge until 31 August 2007, the date of analogue switch-off.
:: 08/03/2007
United Kingdom - Broadcast industry warns against two-tier television society
At the recent DTG summit held in London on 5 March, public service broadcasters, retailers and manufacturers challenged the government's position regarding spectrum allocation, calling for capacity to be set aside to allow for the launch of HDTV services on the DTT platform.
:: 08/03/2007
Spain - 3.8 million DTT receivers sold since launch
The latest figures published by the DTT promotions organisation, Impulsa TDT, show that over 3.8 million DTT receivers have been sold in Spain. Of these, 900,000 were sold in the December to January period.
:: 08/03/2007
Italy - La7 distributed 1 million pay-per-view cards by Dec 2006
In its latest financial earnings report,Telecom Italia Media has announced that over 1 million "La7 Cartapiu" cards had been distributed by 31 December 2006. Of these, 65% had already been activated.
:: 08/03/2007
Slovakia - Launch of DTT services expected in early 2008
Slovakia is preparing to launch DTT services. According to Broadband TV News, the leading broadcasters, STV, TV Markiza and TA3, have agreed to share a single DTT multiplex.
:: 07/03/2007
France - TNTSAT to be ready for 15 June
The Canal+ Group has announced its plans to launch "TNTSAT", a satellite service offering the 18 television programme services currently available on the DTT platform. In addition, viewers will also be able to access a further service, France O, from the public broadcaster, France Télévisions.
:: 07/03/2007
Ireland - Arqiva and O2 launch a DVB-H trial
Network operator Arqiva together with the mobile telecom operator O2 have launched the first DVB-H commercial trial in Ireland. The trial services are available to 350 users in the Dublin area who have been equipped with Nokia N92 receivers.
:: 05/03/2007
Italy - Mediaset reported to launch pay-DTT services
According to Broadband TV News, commercial broadcaster Mediaset is preparing to launch a pay DTT service providing viewers with 8 television programme services.
:: 05/03/2007
Ireland - Second phase of DTT trial launched
Ireland has officially launched the second phase of its DTT trial. An initial panel of 500 participants in the Dublin and Louth areas will be given set-top boxes to view DTT services. The trial will involve 1000 participants by the time that it is completed in August 2008.
:: 05/03/2007
Austria - ORF launches dedicated DVB-H trial programme service
The public broadcaster ORF has launched a dedicated television programme service as part of the current DVB-H trial. This trial is conducted by Mobilkom Austria and 3 and includes 1,000 participants.
:: 05/03/2007
Germany - Regulators prepare for commercial DVB-H launch
The media regulator for Baden-Wuerttemberg, LFK, has begun the process for the launch of nationwide DVB-H services. LFK will coordinate the procedure for selecting a DVB-H service provider with the media regulators from other Länder.
:: 02/03/2007
Italy - 3 Italia and RRD test DVB-T and DVB-H on same multiplex
Testing conducted by 3 Italia and network operator Reti Radiotelevisive (RRD) has shown that it is possible to offer DVB-H and DVB-T services from the same multiplex.
:: 02/03/2007
Austria - Preparation for analogue switch-off in Bregenz
Analogue switch-off is ready to begin in Bregenz and its surrounding area on Monday, 5 March. Bregenz will be the first area in Austria to end analogue terrestrial television services.
:: 02/03/2007
Qatar - Qtel to launch DVB-H services in 2007
Qatar has announced that it will launch commercial DVB-H services this year. Trial DVB-H services have been available since December.
:: 02/03/2007
Morocco - Further extension of trial DTT services
With DTT trial services proven to be successful, the coverage area of the services will be extended. Services are currently available in the cities of Casablanca, Rabat, Fès, Meknès, Tanger, Oujda and Marrakech, providing coverage to 54% of the population.
:: 01/03/2007
Spain - Government support for SMATV conversions
Several regional governments in Spain have agreed to provide financial support for the conversion of SMATV dishes to the DTT platform.
:: 01/03/2007
Belgium - Flemish ASO set for 2008
The Flemish-speaking community in Belgium has announced that it will switch-off its analogue terrestrial television services at the end of 2008. Belgium is a highly-cabled country with 97% of households relying on the cable platform for their television reception.
:: 27/02/2007
United Kingdom - BBC Trust approves
The BBC Trust has provisionally approved the BBC's proposed free-to-view satellite platform "Freesat". Freesat is expected to be a joint venture with other British public service broadcasters such ITV and Channel 4.
:: 26/02/2007
United States - Digital tuner mandation begins on 1 March
The United States is preparing for digital switchover with the obligation of all television sets shipped after 1 March to include a digital tuner. Analogue switch-off is set for February 2009.
:: 23/02/2007
Bulgaria - ASO planned for 2012
The Parliamentary committee responsible for communications policy has decided to bring forward analogue switch-off to 2012. Initial plans called for analogue switch-off in 2015.
:: 23/02/2007
South Africa - Analogue switch-off set for 1 November 2011
The government has approved the timetable for digital switchover. DTT services will begin on 1 November 2008 and analogue services will be switched off on 1 November 2011.
:: 23/02/2007
France - Law on the future of television officially adopted
The proposed French media framework to allow for the "télévision du futur" has been officially approved by the National Assembly and Senate.
:: 23/02/2007
Italy - Analogue switch-off begins in Sardinia
The analogue channels of public service broadcaster Rai Due and Mediaset's Retequattro will be shut off in the Cagliari area (Sardinia) on 1 March. These services will only be available to viewers on the digital terrestrial and satellite platforms.
:: 22/02/2007
Spain - Veo TV optimistic about the DTT platform
The DTT broadcaster Veo TV has expressed its optimism for the DTT platform. Confident of the current levels of DTT receiver sales, which have increased by 25% in the past few months, Veo TV hopes that Spain will reach a DTT household penetration of 40% by the end of the year.
:: 20/02/2007
Spain - Launch of local DTT services in Basque region in 2008
The launch of local DTT services in the Basque region is expected in 2008. Local authorities have announced that they will invite broadcasters to tender for local DTT licenses at the end of 2007 with services expected to be available by the end of 2008.
:: 20/02/2007
European Commission issues spectrum strategy policy
The European Commission (EC) has unveiled its strategy for introducing more flexibility into the usage of radio-frequency spectrum. It estimates that flexible spectrum usage rights and the introduction of market-based spectrum management could yield €8-9 billion per year across Europe.
:: 19/02/2007
Brazil - Financial programme to encourage DTV
The Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has launched a new programme, "Support and Implementation of the Brazilian Terrestrial Digital TV System (ProTVD)", to encourage the development of digital television.
:: 16/02/2007
United Kingdom - Ofcom to open consultation on BSkyB's pay-DTT offering
Broadcast regulator Ofcom has confirmed that it will open a consultation about Sky's proposal to launch pay services on the DTT platform. At this stage, Ofcom is waiting to receive a request for approval from BSkyB.
:: 15/02/2007
Japan - New organisation to lead digital switchover
In an effort to meet its analogue switch-off date of 24 July 2011, a new organisation has been set up by broadcasters, manufacturers and mobile telecom operators.
:: 15/02/2007
Lithuania - No deal between TEO and Mikrovisatos TV
The agreement between the DTT service provider Mikrovisatos TV and the network operator TEO has been cancelled. Signed last December, it was expected that Mikrovisatos TV would be purchased by TEO. However, the deal failed to receive the approval of the Competition Council.
:: 14/02/2007
Spain - Commercial launch of DVB-H services in 2008?
The Spanish government has announced its intention to approve the necessary legislation to allow for the introduction of DVB-H services. These services could begin at the end of 2007 or early 2008.
:: 13/02/2007
Malta - Maltacom acquires Multiplus
Maltacom announced it has acquired DTT network operator and pay service provider Multiplus. This makes Maltacom the sole shareholder of Multiplus having purchased 100% of the Multiplus's shares.
:: 13/02/2007
United Kingdom - Ofcom publishes two options for local DTT services
As part of its Digital Dividend Review, the broadcast regulator Ofcom has published a report on the options for providing local services on the DTT platform. The report examines some of the technical issues associated with the provision of such services and compares two approaches that could be used.
:: 12/02/2007
Australia - Strong digital receiver sales in Q4 2006
Latest estimates published by Digital Broadcasting Australia show that 25% of Australian households can access free-to-view digital television as of the end of 2006. Cumulative sales of digital receivers has now reached 2.3 million units.
:: 12/02/2007
Germany - Research shows interest in mobile TV
In a research commissioned by ARD/ZDF-Medienkommission, 13% of the population is interested in mobile television. In addition, 87% believe that the services of ARD and ZDF should be available free-of-charge.
:: 09/02/2007
Switzerland - Next step for ASO set for 25 June
Analogue switch-off continues to progress in Switzerland. Following switch-off in two regions in 2006, further areas are set to switch-off in 2007. By the end of the year, only one region, Valais (Rhone Valley), will continue to transmit analogue terrestrial television services.
:: 08/02/2007
Ireland - HD on the launched DTT platform?
As part of its two-year DTT trial, Ireland is expected to examne the possibility of offering HDTV services. Currently, the trial offers DTT services in standard-definition.
:: 08/02/2007
United Kingdom - Sky to launch pay-DTT services
Sky has announced plans to launch pay-DTT services in the summer of 2007. The services are likely to include a range of content such as sports, movies, entertainment and news. It is expected that the sports service will include live coverage from the Premiership football league.
:: 06/02/2007
Czech Republic - Results of DVB-H trial available
The results of the T-Mobile DVB-H trial have proven quite similar to those of commercial trials launched in other European countries. Viewers have accessed services at least once a day for an average of 20 minutes.
:: 06/02/2007
United Kingdom - HDforAll campaign launched
A coalition made up of television manufacturers, retailers and public service broadcasters has launched a campaign with the intention of securing HDTV services on the free-to-air DTT platform (Freeview).
:: 06/02/2007
Indonesia - Indonesia likely to adopt DVB-T standard
The Indonesian government is likely to select the DVB-T standard for its DTT services. Services are expected to begin in 2009 while analogue switch-off is expected in 10 years' time.
:: 06/02/2007
Netherlands - 265,000 pay-DTT subscribers
With a total of 265,000 pay-DTT subscribers at the end of 2006, Digitenne had a 44% year-on-year growth. This strong growth is due in part to the appeal of the content offer, especially the recent provision of the Dutch Premier League football.
:: 06/02/2007
United Kingdom - 2 million DTT receivers sold during Xmas period
The fourth quarter of 2006 proved to be strong for the DTT platform with the sale of 2 million DTT receivers. This compares with 1.1 million DTT receivers in the fourth quarter of 2005.
:: 06/02/2007
United Kingdom - Sentanta to join DTT platform
The sports service provider Sentanta has announced plans to join the pay-DTT platform. For £10.99 (€16) per month, viewers will be access their services.
:: 05/02/2007
Italy - Vodafone uses Nagravision for DVB-H security
Vodafone has selected Nagravision to protect the content rights for its newly launched DVB-H services, Vodafone SKY TV. With Nagravision's solution, Vodafone can offer a wide range of business models such as pay-per-subscription to pay-per-view and pay-per-time.
:: 05/02/2007
United Kingdom - New report shows strong DSO awareness
Ofcom and Digital UK have published their joint Switchover Progress Report for Q4 2006. According to the report, national switchover awareness has increased from 70% to 80& between the third and fourth quarters of 2006.
:: 05/02/2007
Poland - 33% of households rely on the analogue terrestrial platform
In a study commissioned by the Office of Electronic Communications, the majority of the respondents use traditional terrestrial analogue television (53%)while every third home has cable TV (33%) and every fifth respondent has satellite TV (20%).
:: 02/02/2007
Taiwan - Launch of a DVB-H trial
A technical DVB-H trial has been launched in Taichung City. The proejct is headed by ChungHwa Wideband Best Network, Innoxius Technologies and Gigabyte.
:: 02/02/2007
Albania - Provisional DVB-H services launched
DigitALB and Grass Valley have launched DVB-H services in Albania. Throughout 2007, viewers will not need to pay to access the DVB-H services.
:: 01/02/2007
France - Proposed digital television framework adopted
The National Assembly has approved the government-proposed law on digital television for the future. The proposed law had already been approved by the Senate in November 2006.
:: 01/02/2007
Germany - New DTT service in Hamburg
The media regulator in Northern Germany has approved the launch of Bible TV on the DTT platform. The service will be available in the area of Hamburg.
:: 01/02/2007
Finland - Sharp increase in DTT receiver sales needed for ASO
With only seven months until analogue switch-off, some concern has arisen that not all homes will be ready. While 70% of terrestrial dependend households have purchased DTT receivers, only half of cable households have done so.
:: 01/02/2007
France - Mini-generalist services appeal on the DTT platform
The lastest figures published by Médiamétrie in France show that the mini-generalist services have the strongest levels of growth on the free-to-air DTT platform. TMC, W9 and NT1 registered strong audience share growth in the November-December 2006 period.
:: 30/01/2007
France - DTV penetration reaches 37.9% at the end of 2006
In a report published by the network operator TDF together with the consultancy firm NPA Conseil, 15.1% of French households are equipped with a DTT receiver. This compares with 9.4% in Q3 2006.
:: 30/01/2007
United Kingdom - Ofcom proposes revised Code for DSO
The broadcast regulator Ofcom has updated the current conditions broadcasters must comply with in the Code of Practice on Changes to Existing Transmission and Reception Arrangements (the Code). The updates to the Code intend to provide guidance on how DTT licence holders should minimise the impact of digital switchover on television viewers.
:: 26/01/2007
Austria - DVB-H trial extended to Kitzbühel
The DVB-H pilot headed by telecom operator mobilkom austria and its partners public broadcaster ORF, Salzburg University, Siemens, H3G and network operator ORS has launched in Kitzbühel. The pilot was extended to Kitzbühel during the famouse Ski Challenge 07 tournament.
:: 26/01/2007
Hong Kong - Consultation on mobile television opened
The Commerce, Industry and Technology Bureau of the government in Hong Kong has opened a consultation on mobile television. It is seeking opinions on the introduction and regulation of mobile television services.
:: 25/01/2007
White paper on economics of mobile TV available from the Mobile DTV Alliance
The Mobile Digital TV Alliance has published a white paper on the economic viability for download on the Mobile DTV Alliance website.
:: 25/01/2007
Austria - Delays to analogue switch-off plans
The initial timetable for analogue switch-off in the regional capitals has been delayed by a few weeks. Expected to begin in early March, the process is now likely begin in April.
:: 24/01/2007
France - Debate on proposed media law set for 30 January
The National Assembly will begin debating the government's proposed media law on 30 January. The bill sets 30 November 2011 as the date for analogue switch-off and allows for the use of released spectrum for mobile and high-definition television services.
:: 24/01/2007
Italy - EC rules against set-top box subsidies in Italy
The European Commission (EC) has decided that subsidies for digital receivers granted by Italy in 2004 and 2005 are illegal as they violate state aid rules. The EC has, however, decided that subsidies granted in 2006 do not violate EC Treaty state aid rules since they are technology-neutral.
:: 23/01/2007
Netherlands - TDF acquires KPN broadcast towers
The broadcast network operator TDF has agreed to purchase 24 broadcast towers in the Netherlands. These towers are currently held by the telecom operator KPN.
:: 23/01/2007
Spain - Commercial broadcasters request lower DTT coverage requirements
Commercial broadcasters in Spain are asking the government to reduce the level of DTT coverage that they will be required to provide following analogue switch-off. Currently, DTT coverage in Spain stands at 80% of the population.
:: 19/01/2007
Austria - Planning underway to launch a second DTT multiplex
With analogue switch-off set-top take place in the regional capitals between March-June 2007, the planning for the launch of a second multiplex is underway.
:: 19/01/2007
Honduras - ATSC selected for the DTT platform
The telecommunications regulator Conatel has announced that Honduras will adopt the ATSC standard for its digital terrestrial television platform. This is the same standard as used in the USA.
:: 17/01/2007
France - CSA opens consultation on mobile television
The Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel (CSA) has opened a public consultation on the topic of mobile television. This consultation aims to gather industry opinion on the content offering, business models and frequency usage.
:: 17/01/2007
Spain - Government seeks high-quality content on DTT platform
The Spanish government is considering tightening up DTT licensing conditions in an attempt to ensure broadcasters invest in original and quality content.
:: 16/01/2007
France - Over 6.8 million DTT receivers in homes
Latest figures show that over 6.8 million DTT receivers have been sold or rented in France by the end of 2006.
:: 16/01/2007
Austria - Initial results following DTT launch in October 2006
Following the launch of DTT services in Austria last October, it is estimated that 100,000 DVB-T receivers have been sold. Of these, viewers have purchased 35,000 MHP-enabled receivers using a subsidy offered by the government.
:: 15/01/2007
Italy - Switchover planned for Cagliari in March 2007
The city of Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, will switch-off its national analogue transmissions in March 2007. It will thus become the first "all-digital" region in Italy.
:: 12/01/2007
Slovenia - MPEG-4 AVC selected for DTT platform
The Slovenian regulator for postal and electronic communications, APEK, has announced the selection of the MPEG-4 AVC video compression standard for the DTT platform.
:: 12/01/2007
France - France and Germany to launch DTT services along border simultaneously
French and German broadcasters will launch their respective DTT services simultaneously in order to allow viewers to benefit from the available services.
:: 12/01/2007
Spain - TVC to offer HD services on its terrestrial platform
The regional broadcaster in Catalonia, Televisio de Catalunya (TVC), has announced plans to launch high-defintion television services (HDTV) on its DTT platform. The services are expected to be made available by the end of the year.
:: 11/01/2007
France - Rearrangement of television service slots in multiplexes R1, R2, R3, and R6
The Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel (CSA) has announced its plans to rearrange some of the slots used for television programme services on the DTT platform. By doing so, the CSA hopes to make more efficient use of available multiplex capacity.
:: 10/01/2007
France - Neotion announces its new MPEG-4 HD module
Neotion, a French leader in digital television equipment, has announced the development of an HD-module for use in iDTVs. With this module, inserted in the Common Interface slot, viewers can access MPEG-4 AVC content.
:: 09/01/2007
France - CSA publishes DTT coverage roll-out for 2007
The Conseil Supérieur de l'Audiovisuel (CSA) has published its roadmap of DTT service launches expected in 2007. Following these launches, between 80-85% of the population will be able to access the DTT platform in France.
:: 09/01/2007
United States - United States - Only 30% analogue switch-off awareness
According to the latest research conducted by the national broadcaster CBS, less than 30% of the US population is aware of the 18 February 2009 analogue switch-off date.
:: 09/01/2007
France - Group of new terrestrial broadcasters created
The three new broadcasters on the DTT platform, BMF TV, Direct 8 and NRJ 12, have created a group to lobby in favour of their interests.
:: 09/01/2007
Sweden - Over 650,000 subscribers to the Boxer DTT platform
The Swedish pay DTT service provider, Boxer, has announced that it had 654,000 subscribers to its service at the end of 2006. This represents a yearly growth of 23%.
:: 05/01/2007
United States - Modeo prepares for DVB-H launch in NYC
Modeo is preparing for its upcoming DVB-H launch by announcing its 'commercial beta' trial of DVB-H service in New York City. The new service will provide several hundred people with access to DVB-H services using Modeo's DVB-H-enabled HTC Pocket PC Phones, also called the Foreseer TV smartphone.
:: 04/01/2007
Hong Kong - Terrestrial broadcasters support Chinese DTT standard
Hong Kong's two terrestrial television broadcasters, Television Broadcasts (TVB) and Asia Television (ATV), are lobbying the government for the adoption of the Chinese DTT standard.
:: 02/01/2007
Finland - Government expected to issue DVB-H programme licenses
The Finnish Communications Regulatory Authority is expected to soon issue licenses for the provision of television and radio services on the newly-built DVB-H network.
:: 27/12/2006
Spain - 2.6 million DTT receivers sold
According to the latest figures announced by Impulsa TDT, the DTT promotions group in Spain, over 2.6 million DTT receivers had been sold by the end of October 2006.
:: 21/12/2006
Sweden - Sixth multiplex allocated in Stockholm
The Swedish government has approved the allocation of a sixth regional multiplex in Stockholm. The multiplex will provide the Finnish language services of Sverigefinska Riksförbundet, currently available on the analogue platform but not simulcast on the DTT platform.
:: 21/12/2006
Sweden - EC rules that state aid not given to Teracom
The European Commission has concluded that the network operator Teracom has not received illegal state aid as part of its development of the DTT network. A formal investigation into allegations of Teracom's state aid was launched in 2004 following complaints from satellite operators.
:: 21/12/2006
United Kingdom - Interactive health service on DTT platform
NHS Direct, a healthcare information service, has launched on the free-to-air DTT platform. By accessing NHS Direct Interactive on channel 108, viewers are able to freely access 150 pages of information, including answers to common health questions, information on NHS services and advice on healthy lifestyles .
:: 20/12/2006
Germany - 7 million DTT receivers in homes
The DVB-T Taskforce in Germany has announced that over 7 million DTT receivers have been sold with 60% of terrestrial households now accessing DTT services. WIth the roll-out of DTT services in several new regions, the DTT coverage has now reached 75% of the population.
:: 20/12/2006
Finland - 8 DTT licenses awarded
The Finnish government has awarded 4 DTT licenses that will join the DigiTV pay platform. These four services will be part of a new multiplex (Multiplex E) to be launched in the southern part of the country before rolling out to the rest of the country following analogue switch-off.
:: 20/12/2006
Switzerland - DTT coverage extended
The region of the Jura, along the border with France, now receives DTT services. Viewers can access four television programme services (TSR1, TSR2, SF1 and TSI1) from the public service broadcaster SRG SSR.
:: 20/12/2006
United Kingdom - DTV penetration reaches 73%
The latest figures published by Ofcom show that by the end of September 2006, 73.3% of households are accessing digital television services on their primary television sets. This is an increase of 3.1% compared with the previous quarter.
:: 19/12/2006
United Kingdom - Ofcom opens consultation on the digital dividend
The broadcast regulator Ofcom has published its Digital Dividend Review for public consultation. The Review sets out Ofcom's proposals for the most effective use of the frequencies (470-862 MHz) released by analogue switch-off between 2008-2012.
:: 19/12/2006
United Kingdom - Government unveils £600 million for switchover support
The Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell announced a £600 million digital switchover support package to help older and disabled people to convert to digital television. This support scheme is part of the overall BBC license settlement package.
:: 19/12/2006
France - CSA opens public consultation on HD/DTT
The broadcast regulator CSA has decided to open a public consultation on high-definition television services on the terrestrial platform. The regulator believes that HD should become available on the DTT platform with the eventual aim of serving as the defacto television standard.
:: 19/12/2006
France - DVB-H testing in Metz
The broadcast regulator, Conseil Supérieur de l'Audiovisuel (CSA), has authorised the network operator TDF to undertake DVB-H testing in Metz.
:: 18/12/2006
Spain - Government to release ASO plans in May 2007
The government is the process of putting together its digital switchover timetable with the intention of reaching analogue switch-off in April 2010. The plan is expected to be made available in May 2007.
:: 15/12/2006
Denmark - DVB-SSU channel available
Digi TV has opened up a channel on its DTT system to allow manufactures to run over-the-air software updates. The system uses the ETSI Specification for DVB-SSU.
:: 15/12/2006
Italy - France2 joins DTT platform
French service, France 2, is available to viewers via the DTT plaform. It is available on the multiplex operated by the L'Espresso group.
:: 15/12/2006
Estonia - Official launch of DTT services
DTT services have been officially launched in Estonia on 15 December. Viewers can access pay-DTT service, ZUUMtv, operated by Estonian Digital Television.
:: 14/12/2006
Spain - Two million DTT receivers sold
Latest data shows that DTT penetration is growing in Spain. Already, 2 million DTT set-top boxes and 500,000 iDTVs have been sold in 2006. This is in addition to the DTT receivers in homes prior to the launch of DTT services in November 2005.
:: 14/12/2006
Italy - New DVB-H service available to Vodafone customers
Vodafone will offer its customers DVB-H services with content provided by Sky Italia using Mediaset's transmission network.
:: 12/12/2006
Spain - Massive DTT advertising campaign launched prior to Xmas
The organisation promoting DTT services, Pro DTT, has announced its plans to launch a massive advertising campaign on the advantages of DTT services. Members of Pro DTT include the network operator Abertis and all broadcasters on the DTT platform.
:: 12/12/2006
United Kingdom - Push VOD trial on the DTT platform
The BBC and digital television software specialist, Cabot Communications, are jointly testing push video-on-demand services to PVRs. The three-month trial will involve 300 participants in the London area.
:: 12/12/2006
Netherlands - First country to complete ASO
In the night of 10-11 December, the Netherlands switched off its analogue terrestrial television network. This makes it the first country in the world to complete analogue switch-off.
:: 08/12/2006
DTT services have been launched in eight western prefectures of Japan, including Okayama, Kagawa, Saga, Oita, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Miyazaki and Kagoshima. Coverage is available to approximately 84% of the 47 million households in these areas.
:: 07/12/2006
United Kingdom - Ofcom sets out DTT multiplex licensing conditions
Ofcom has published the license conditions for DTT multiplex operators further to its public consultation on the issue in July 2006. The conditions ensure that multiplex operators deliver appropriate levels of digital coverage following switchover.
:: 06/12/2006
France - DVB-H trial in a Parisian metro
The first demonstration of DVB-H services in a metro were undertaken in Paris on 6 December by the Parisian metro operator RATP and the network operator TDF. This is the first DVB-H trial to be undertaken in an underground metro.
:: 05/12/2006
Belgium - Government issues digital switchover roadmap
The government for the French-speaking community of Belgium has issued its roadmap for digital switchover. The broadcast regulator, CSA, has issued its opinion to the roadmap.
:: 04/12/2006
Italy - Launch of Sardegna Digitale
The official launch of Sardegna Digitale has taken place. This is a new public interactive service available on the DTT platform and supported by national and local broadcasters.
:: 30/11/2006
India - Nokia supports DVB-H trial
Nokia has announced its plans for a DVB-H trial in India in early 2007. The trial will be undertaken with the national broadcaster Doordarshan.
:: 29/11/2006
Portugal - DVB-H trial in the Lisbon area
Commercial broadcaster TVI and mobile operator Vodafone Portugal have launched a trial DVB-H service. The service is available in the greater Lisbon area.
:: 29/11/2006
Czech Republic - CTU proposes 2010 ASO date
The communications regulator CTU has opened for consultation its plans for digital switchover in the Czech Republic. The proposed plan calls for analogue switch-off by 2010.
:: 28/11/2006
France - Neotion to offer pay-DTT services on iDTVs
A new solution offered by NEOTION will allow French viewers to access the pay-DTT platform. As such, it has become an official distributor of pay-DTT services.
:: 23/11/2006
Italy - Multiplex capacity to be made available to new broadcasters
The communications regulator, Agcom, has proposed that 40% of the current multiplex capacity held by national broadcasters RAI, Mediaset and Telecom Italia be made available for new broadcasters.
:: 23/11/2006
Australia - Government proposal for digital switch-over
The government has announced its plans for digital switch-over. Analogue switch-off is expected to take place between 2010 and 2012.
:: 22/11/2006
Russia - DVB-H services in 2008?
The largest private sector consumer services company in Russia, Sistema Mass Media, intends to launch DVB-H services in 16 Russian cities by 2008.
:: 22/11/2006
Spain - Commercial broadcasters fearful for ASO
The president of the Uteca (Union for Commercial Broadcasters), Alejandro Echevarría, has expressed his doubts that Spain may not be able to reach its targeted date for analogue switch-off. The date has been set for April 2010.
:: 22/11/2006
United Kingdom - Initial results of the HD/DTT trial
Findings from the HD/DTT trial indicate that viewers expect HD services on the free-to-air DTT platform in the future. The trial was undertaken jointly by the broadcasters BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Five.
:: 21/11/2006
France - Senate approves new digital framework legislation
The French Senate has approved the government's proposed bill concerning digital switch-over. As a next step, the bill will go to the National Assembly for its review.
:: 20/11/2006
France - Senate reviews proposed law on ASO
A proposed law on analogue switch-off and the digital dividend is currently in the review process with the French Senate. If approved by the Senate and National Assembly, it could enter into force as of January 2007.
:: 16/11/2006
Qatar - Trial DVB-H services in December
Qatar Telecom has announced that it plans on launching commercial DVB-H services next year. In addition, it will make trial DVB-H services available as part of the Doha Asian games next month.
:: 16/11/2006
Spain - Government urged to publish ASO plan
Broadcasters on the DTT platform are asking the government to approve an analogue switch-off plan as soon as possible in order to encourage the development of DTT services. Analogue switch-off has been set for April 2010.
:: 16/11/2006
France - 22 candidates for DTT services in Paris
The broadcasting regulator CSA has received 22 applications for four local DTT licenses in the region of Paris. All of the applications submitted are for free-to-air television services.
:: 15/11/2006
Spain - RTVE to launch free-to-air satellite service
Public service broadcaster RTVE has announced plans to make its services that are currently available on the DTT platform also available on a free-to-air satellite platform.
:: 15/11/2006
Spain - Clearer DTT marketing in Catalonia necessary
In preparation for its analogue switch-off, the Agencia Catalana de Consum has announced that electronic resellers will need to indicate whether television sets have a digital tuner or will require a separate DTT tuner. Retailers will also need to indicate whether or not the DTT receiver is MHP-enabled.
:: 14/11/2006
Switzerland - Further roll-out of DTT services
The roll-out of DTT services continues in Switzerland with further launches in the German-speaking part of the country this year. Viewers will be able to access four television programme services (DR1, DR2, TSR1, TSI1) offered by the public service broadcaster SRG-SSR.
:: 13/11/2006
Portugal - Launch of DTT services expected in January 2008
The launch of DTT services in Portugal is expected to take place in January 2008. The communications regulator Anacom is expected to issue two DTT licenses, one for free-to-air services (i.e. RTP, 2, SIC and TVI) and a second for pay-DTT services.
:: 09/11/2006
France - DTT penetration nearly 10% of the population
According to the latest figures published by Médiamétrie, 9.7% of the French population accesses DTT services. In addition, the children's service Gulli has proven to be the most popular among viewers.
:: 09/11/2006
United Kingdom - Freeview launches new branding campaign
Freeview, the free-to-air DTT promotions group, has launched a new branding campaign. The new campaign, entitled 'Free TV Land - Where Great TV is Free,' projects a retro look and more clearly defines the values of Freeview.
:: 08/11/2006
Italy - Government to allocate €120 million for digital switchover
The Italian Government has agreed to set aside €120 million in the next three years to help with the transition from analogue to digital television.
:: 07/11/2006
Philippines - NTC issues draft DTT regulations
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has published a draft set of rules governing DTT services. These new rules establish DVB-T as the standard to be used for digital terrestrial broadcasting.
:: 06/11/2006
Ireland - New content providers selected for DTT trial
The Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (DCMNR) and the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) announced the allocation of the Multiplex Programme Content Managers licenses for the current DTT Trial.
:: 06/11/2006
United Kingdom - Digital TV kit sales overtake analogue
Research conducted by GfK show that the sale of digital television equipment has overtaken analogue sales for the first time in the United Kingdom.
:: 01/11/2006
United Kingdom - Top Up TV launches new pay-DTT VOD push services
Pay-DTT operator Top Up TV has launched its Top Up TV Anytime Service and Digital TV Recorder (DTR) manufactured by Thomson. Viewers will be able to access Top Up TV Anytime programming as well as the free-to-air services available on the Freeview platform.
:: 31/10/2006
Finland - Content agreement for DVB-H platform
SBS Finland, a leading creator of radio and television content, has signed an agreement with the network operator Digita for the distribution of its content on the DVB-H platform.
:: 30/10/2006
United States - Newport Media introduces new single-chip mobile TV receiver for DVB-H
DigiTAG member Newport Media has introduced its NMI300 single-chip Sundance H mobile digital television receiver. The new chip, measuring 7mm x 7mm, offers a small size with a low power consumption.
:: 30/10/2006
Spain - Ager first town to go all-digital
The Catalan government has selected the town of Ager for the first analogue switch-off pilot in the region. Analogue switch-off is set to take place in February 2007.
:: 30/10/2006
New Zealand - Freeview to launch using MHEG-5
The free-to-air television platform in New Zealand will use MHEG-5 technology for interactive services. This is the first full-scale deployment of MHEG-5 outside of the United Kingdom.
:: 30/10/2006
Taiwan - HD/DTT trial to commence
Taiwan's National Communications Commission has approved an HDTV trial to be undertaken by local television broadcasters and the the public service broadcasters PTS.
:: 30/10/2006
Switzerland - Launch of DVB-H commercial trial
Swisscom Broadcast will launch its commercial DVB-H trial in the Swiss capital Berne on 1 November. The trial will involve 200 participants and last until the end of January 2007.
:: 27/10/2006
France - Digital homes to reach 95% by 2011
According to research published by analyst house NPA Conseil, 24 million households in France will have digital television by 2011, corresponding to approximately 92% of the population. DTT will become the leading digital platform by the end of 2008.
:: 27/10/2006
United Kingdom - ASO set for 2013 in Jersey
Analogue terrestrial television will be phased out in the States of Jersey. This will allow for the introduction of up to 19 television and 12 radio services.
:: 27/10/2006
Finland - New pay-DTT services available
PlusTV will make its pay-DTT offer available to Finnish viewers as of 1 November. The package will provide viewers with access to two television programme services from the local commercial broadcaster MTV3.
:: 26/10/2006
Czech Republic - Appeal against court decision rescinding 6 DTT licenses
The Czech Radio and TV Council (RRTV) and the six broadcasters awarded DTT licenses in April 2006 have appealed to the Supreme Administrative Court (NSS) over the Prague Municipal Court’s decision to cancel these licences in September.
:: 26/10/2006
Austria - DTT services begin on 26 October
DTT services have been launched in Vienna and the regional capital. Coverage is provided to approximately 70% of the population at the time of launch.
:: 26/10/2006
The analogue switch-off pilot in the province of Soria, located in the region of Castilla y Leon, has been confirmed. The pilot will take place in 2008. This will make Soria the first province in the country to completely migrate to digital.
:: 25/10/2006
Germany - DTT services in Schleswig-Holstein
DTT services are available on the west coast of Schleswig-Holstein since 24 October. Using a DVB-T receiver, viewers can now access 11 television programme services from the public service broadcasters.
:: 25/10/2006
Czech Republic - Launch of a 6-week DVB-H commercial pilot
Telecom operator T-Mobile and the broadcast network operator Radiokomunikace have launched a six-week friendly-user DVB-H trial. The trial is set to last until the end of November.
:: 18/10/2006
IMS Research forecasts high DTT growth
A new study published by IMS Research predicts that the worldwide DTT market will grow signficantly over the next five years, from an estimated 37 million households in 2006, to a forecast 131 million households by the end of 2011.
:: 18/10/2006
Ireland - Commercial DVB-H pilot to begin in January 2007
Arqiva has announced its plans with O2 to launch the first commercial DVB-H trial in Ireland. The trial will officially begin in January 2007 and last for approximately 8 months.
:: 17/10/2006
Sweden - EC to take Sweden to court over access control service monopoly
The European Commission (EC) has decided to take Sweden to the European Court of Justice for not ending the monopoly of access control services.
:: 16/10/2006
Greece - EC requests Greece to adopt new framework for broadcast services
The European Commission (EC)has formally requested Greece to adopt a new framework for broadcast services. This is in accordance with a ruling by the European Court of Justice on 14 April 2005 that confirmed Greece's failure to transpose Directive 2002/77/EC on electronic communications liberalisation.
:: 16/10/2006
Italy - New communications bill approved by Cabinet
The Italian Cabinet has approved the reforms to the television market proposed by the Minister for Communications Paolo Gentiloni. The bill introduces new regulations during the switchover phase from analogue to digital terrestrial.
:: 11/10/2006
France - DTT coverage to increase to 65% of the population
DTT coverage in France will increase to 65% of the population by the end of October 2006. Currently, DTT services are available to 58.5% of the population.
:: 11/10/2006
United Kingdom - BBC warns against DSO failure due to inadequate funding
The BBC has warned the Government that the UK's digital switchover could fail without sufficient funding. And given that the license fee will fund much of the project, an adequate increase is necessary.
:: 10/10/2006
United Kingdom - Switchover campaign prepares for Christmas sales
Digital UK has launched a new campaign to encourage digital switchover. As part of the campaign, Digital UK will launch several television advertisements encouraging viewers to look for the ‘digital tick’ logo, place inserts in the Christmas editions of Radio Times and TV Times and send information booklets to 3.1 million homes in the North West.
:: 09/10/2006
Sweden - Launch of DVB-H commercial trial
Sweden will launch its largest mobile television pilot in early October. Viewers in parts of Stockholm, Solna and Sundbyberg will be able to access a total of 15 services.
:: 09/10/2006
United Kingdom - United Kingdom - Freeview Playback STBs ready for Christmas
The first Freeview Playback-branded PVRs will be available to consumers in time for Christmas. The Freeview consortium, in partnership with the DTG, has been developing a specification for Freeview PVRs.
:: 09/10/2006
Spain - 2 million DTT set-top boxes sold since November 2005
Since the re-launch of DTT services in November 2005, more than 2,250,000 DTT set-top-boxes have been sold in Spain. In addition, antennas at over 300,000 buildings have been adapted for DTT reception.
:: 05/10/2006
France - CSA authorises software system updates
The broadcaster regulator CSA has authorised the multiplex operator, Compagnie du numérique hertzien, to use some of its available frequencies to upgrade the software of DTT receivers.
:: 05/10/2006
Sweden - 27.5% increase in DTT households
DTT service provider Boxer has reported that it had 616,000 subscribers at the end of September 2006. This is an increase of 27.5% in comparison with the number of DTT subscribers in September 2005 (438,000).
:: 04/10/2006
United Kingdom - 1.2 million DTT receivers sold during Q2 2006
The latest figures published by Ofcom show that 70.2% of households access digital television services at the end of June 2006. This is a growth of 1.8% compared with the first quarter of 2006.
:: 29/09/2006
Germany - Analogue switch-off in Eastern Bavaria
On 6 December, analogue services in Eastern Bavaria will end. Viewers will be able to access terrestrial television services using DVB-T, which has been available since May 2006.
:: 29/09/2006
Bulgaria - Consultation opened on DTT licenses in Sofia
Bulgaria’s Communications Regulation Commission (CRC) has invited interest parties to ‘notify their position’ on the forthcoming award of a DTT licence in the capital Sofia.
:: 29/09/2006
Australia - Broadcasters oppose Government's proposed media law
Commercial broadcasters have submitted their concerns to the Senate inquiry into the Government's media bill. Already, responses have been received from pay operator Foxtel and free-to-air broadcasters Seven Network and Ten Network.
:: 27/09/2006
Spain - Cable operators to stop distributing content from DTT platform
Spain's largest cable operator, ONO, has announced plans to stop distributing content from the DTT platform. Previously, ONO distributed on its cable network the 22 television programme services currently available on the DTT platform.
:: 27/09/2006
Australia - ABC calls for must-carry rule on DTT mobile platform
Public broadcaster ABC has requested that any launch of mobile DTT incorporates its content on the platform. This request is part of ABC's submission to a Senate enquiry into the government's proposed media bill which calls for spectrum to be auctioned for new DTT services.
:: 27/09/2006
Ireland - Preparations for a DVB-H trial
Mobile telecom operator 3 has announced plans to launch a DVB-H trial in Ireland. The company has been awarded a trial DVB-H license by the regulator ComReg.
:: 24/09/2006
Saudi Arabia - DTT services now available in 11 cities
The Minister of Culture and Information, Iyad Amin Madani, has announced that DTT services are now available in Mecca, Medina, Riyadh, Jedda, Dammam, Khobar, Burayda, Abha, Ha’il, Jubayl and Hofuf.
:: 22/09/2006
Estonia - Preparations underway for DTT launch
DTT services are set to begin in Estonia in December 2006. The new service will be launched by Estonian Digital Television, a joint venture between the network operator Levira and cable operator Starman.
:: 20/09/2006
Ukraine - DigiTAG member received IBC Award
Ivan Omelyanyuk from UDTVN received the IBC 2006 award for best conference paper. His paper examined the roll-out of DVB-T(H) services in the Ukraine. Yaroslav Karnakov from Kvant-Efir co-authored the paper.
:: 20/09/2006
Hong Kong - DVB-H technical trial to begin
A DVB-H technical trial has begun in Hong Kong. The trial will last from September 2006 until March 2007. Motorola and PCCW-HKT Telephone Limited, a subsidiary of Hong Kong's telecommunications provider, PCCW, will conduct the trial.
:: 20/09/2006
France - Revised set-top requirements published
The Conseil Supérieur de l'Audiovisuel (CSA) has published a revised document outlining the requirements for DTT receivers in France.
:: 18/09/2006
Italy - Sitcom UNO launched on DTT platform
A new television programme service has been launched on the national DTT platform. The service is available for 12 hours each day beginning on 18 September.
:: 18/09/2006
Germany - Analogue switch-off in Staufenberg
NDR has announced that analogue switch-off will take place in the region of Staufenberg on 10 October. Other regions affected include Münden, Hedemünden and Oberode.
:: 18/09/2006
United Kingdom - Digital UK calls for phasing out analogue TV sets
With more analogue television sets being sold in comparison with digital sets, Ford Ennal, the head of Digital UK, has called for manufacturers to phase out the sale of analogue sets.
:: 18/09/2006
United Kingdom - Arqiva to deploy BBC's DTT network
The BBC and broadcast network operator Arqiva have concluded contract negotiations for the design, deployment, and operation of its new high-power DTT network.
:: 16/09/2006
Netherlands - Two-week delay for ASO date
The Dutch government has again changed the date when all analogue television transmitters will be switched off.
:: 15/09/2006
Italy - Strong interest in PPV services
Commercial broadcaster Mediaset has reported strong interest in its pay-per-view service on the DTT platform.
:: 14/09/2006
Czech Republic - Court cancels 6 DTT licenses
The municipal court in Prague has cancelled the six DTT licenses awarded to broadcasters in April by the Radio and Television Broadcasting Council (RRTV).
:: 14/09/2006
Vietnam - Commercial DVB-H trial to launch by end of year
Nokia and the national broadcaster Vietnam Multimedia Corporation (VTC) have annouced a joint plan to launch commercial DVB-H services by the end of 2006. The services will be launched in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
:: 13/09/2006
Australia - Two DTT multiplexes to be available in 2007
The government has announce that it will auction two DTT multiplexes early next year. The new services will likely be available in 2008.
:: 13/09/2006