Archives
:: 20/01/2012
Russia - Vimpelcom ends DVB-H effort
The telecom operator Vimpelcom has has sold its 75% stake in the company Dominant. With this sale, it ends its plans to launch mobile television services using the DVB-H standard.
:: 19/01/2012
Portugal - Anacom launches new ASO information campaign
The communications regulator launched a new phase of its analogue switch-off awareness campaign on 2 January.
:: 19/01/2012
Italy - Government to present DTT licensing plans by end of week
The Minister for Economic Development, Corrado Passera, has announced that he will present his proposals for the use of available frequencies in bands IV and V.
:: 18/01/2012
Poland - TVP plans to launch two new thematic television services
The public service broadcaster TVP has announced plans to launch two new television programme services on the DTT platform.
:: 17/01/2012
Poland - Five DTT multiplexes to be available after ASO completed
The KRRiT (National Broadcasting Council) has confirmed that analogue switch-off will be completed in Poland in July 2013. In addition, it stated that 5 nationwide DTT multiplexes will be available following the completion of the process.
:: 16/01/2012
Commission calls on Parliament to adopt RSPP
The European Commission has given its support to the position of the Council regarding the radio spectrum policy programme (RSPP) which the Council issued on 13 December 2011.
:: 13/01/2012
Greece - euronews joins DTT platform
The pan-European news service, euronews, has announced that it has joined the free-to-air DTT platforms in Greece and Cyprus.
:: 12/01/2012
United Kingdom - OFCOM opens 2nd consultation on 4G auction proposals
The communications regulator OFCOM has opened a consultation on its proposals for 4G networks in the United Kingdom. These networks will operate in the 800 MHz band and the 2.6 GHz band.
:: 12/01/2012
Czech Republic - CTU expert group to discuss DVB-T2
The communications regulator CTU is set to convene its expert group on DVB-T2 for a first meeting.
:: 12/01/2012
France - Strong demand for DTT licenses
A total of 34 projects have been submitted to the CSA for the six available broadcast licenses on the DTT platform.
:: 12/01/2012
Portugal - Analogue switch-off officially begins
Analogue switch-off has commenced in Portugal with the switch-off of analogue services in the Palmela region including relays in Alcácer do Sal, Melides and Sesimbra.
:: 09/01/2012
Belgium - VRT to launch new DTT service
The public service broadcaster for the Flemish-speaking community, VRT, has announced plans to launch a third television programme service on the DTT platform.
:: 09/01/2012
Latvia - MTG announces plan to acquire LNT
The Swedish media group, Modern Times Group (MTG), has announced plans to acquire 100% of the free-to-air broadcaster Latvijas Neatkarīgā Televīzija (LNT).
:: 06/01/2012
Poland - Political protests against KRRiT's DTT license allocation
Political groups are protesting the failure of the broadcast service TV Trwam to secure a license to broadcast on the DTT platform.
:: 06/01/2012
United Kingdom - CCTV to be available via Freeview
Three television programme services from China Central Television (CCTV) will be accessible via the free-to-air HD/DTT platform, Freeview HD.
:: 06/01/2012
United States - Mobile DTV services available in 46 regions
The availability of mobile broadcast services is expanding in the United States. The Open Mobile Video Coalition (OMVC) has announced that 120 broadcasters are providing services in more than 46 regions.
:: 05/01/2012
France - CSA provides overview of DSO
The broadcast regulator, CSA, has published an overview of the digital switchover process in France. It congratulates all actors involved in the process which lasted 22 months and ended on 29 November 2011.
:: 03/01/2012
Poland - Launch of TTK on DTT platform
A new television programme service is available to viewers on the DTT platform.
:: 31/12/2011
Azerbaijian - ASO could be completed in 2012
Plans to complete analogue switch-off in 2012 could be possible if the government agrees to provide DTT receivers to 120,000 low-income households.
:: 29/12/2011
Lieven Vermaele new DigiTAG Chairman
Information about the new DigiTAG Presidency has been published by Broadcast Engineering.
:: 29/12/2011
Spain - CRTVG to launch HbbTV trial
The regional broadcasters for the northwestern region of Galica, Corporación Radio y Televisión de Galicia (CRTVG), has announced that it will begin a trial of interactive television services using the HbbTV standard.
:: 28/12/2011
64.7 million DVB-T2 receivers to be shipped in 2015.
According to a recent report published by NPD DisplaySearch, Quarterly TV Design and Features Report, shipments of DVB-T2 enabled television sets will reach 64.7 million in 2015.
:: 28/12/2011
Indonesia - Consultation on DVB-T2 opened
The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has opened a consultation on its proposal for the adoption of the DVB-T2 standard on the free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 28/12/2011
Czech Republic - ZAK TV joins DTT platform
The regional television programme service, ZAK TV, has announced that it will join the DTT platform on 15 January.
:: 27/12/2011
Bulgaria - Government approves tender for 7th DTT multiplex
The government has approved legislation allowing the communications regulator to tender a license for a new DTT multiplex.
:: 23/12/2011
United States - AT&T acquires FLO TV frequencies
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has given its approval for the telecom operator AT&T to acquire frequencies in the UHF channels 55 and 56 from Qualcomm.
:: 22/12/2011
United States - FCC approves white space database and device
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved the first television white spaces database and device.
:: 22/12/2011
Italy - ASO to be completed by 30 June 2012
The Minister of Economic Development approved the final timetable for the completion of analogue switch-off. The process is expected to be completed by 30 June 2012.
:: 21/12/2011
Slovakia - DTT multiplex to launch by August 2012
The Telecommunications Authority, TU SR, has published the license obligations on the broadcast network operator Towercom which has been awarded the license to operate the fourth DTT multiplex.
:: 21/12/2011
Italy - AgCom rules that DVB-H multiplex cannot offer DVB-T services
The communications regulator AgCom has rejected the request from 3 Italia to offer services using the DVB-T standard on its multiplex. Currently, this multiplex uses the DVB-H standard to offer mobile television services.
:: 20/12/2011
Colombia - CNTV adopts DVB-T2 standard
The Comisión Nacional de Televisión (CNTV) has decided to adopt the DVB-T2 standard for the free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 19/12/2011
United Kingdom - Ofcom opens a consultation on local DTT services
Ofcom has published a consultation on the Government's proposed framework for local television programme services on the DTT platform.
:: 19/12/2011
Italy - Government may cancel DTT tender
Speculation is mounting that the planned tender for 6 DTT multiplexes will be cancelled. These multiplexes were to be allocated following the completion of analogue switch-off in 2012.
:: 16/12/2011
Spain - Canal+ Dos to exit pay-DTT platform
The Spanish pay broadcaster Canal+ has announced that it will stop its service Canal+ Dos on the pay-DTT platform in December 2011.
:: 16/12/2011
United Kingdom - Channel 5 withdraws from HD/DTT license process
The communications regulator Ofcom has announced that the broadcaster Channel 5 has withdrawn its application for a license to provide an HD service on the DTT platform.
:: 15/12/2011
Slovakia - Towercom awarded DTT license
The telecommunications regulatory authority, TU SR, has announced that the broadcast network operator Towercom has been awarded the license to operate the fourth DTT multiplex.
:: 14/12/2011
France - B2M consortium receives government funding
TDF, together with its partners in the B2M (Broadcast Multimedia Mobile) consortium, has received government funding for its project examining mobile video services.
:: 14/12/2011
Poland - Launch of MUX 1 on 15 December
A new DTT multiplex, MUX 1, is set to launch on 15 December. This multiplex will initially offer 5 television programme services.
:: 14/12/2011
EU Telecom Council approves RSPP
The European Union's Council, represented by Telecom ministers, has approved the Radio Spectrum Policy Programme (RSPP).
:: 12/12/2011
Germany - Two new DTT services in Hesse
The regulator for commercial media in the region of Hesse has announced that it has awarded DTT broadcast licenses to iMusic and Anixe.
:: 09/12/2011
Latvia - Lattelecom leading pay TV operator
The pay-DTT operator Lattelecom is the leading provider of pay television services in Latvia.
:: 08/12/2011
United Kingdom - Ofcom issues draft work plan 2012/2013
The communications regulator Ofcom has issued its draft work plan for the period from 1 April 2012 to 31 March 2013.
:: 08/12/2011
Czech Republic - Lagardère interested in DTT service
The media group Mafra which owns the DTT programme service Ocko may be acquired the by the French media group Lagardère.
:: 08/12/2011
Fears are mounting that the transition to digital television may face difficulties.
:: 07/12/2011
Hungary - 98% coverage by end of year
The broadcast network operator Antenna Hungaria has announced that 300,000 households use the free-to-air DTT platform, MinDig TV. This represents 35% of all terrestrial television households.
:: 07/12/2011
Czech Republic - Regional services to end on DTT platform?
Regional television programme services may become more difficult to access in the Czech Republic following the unilateral decision by the commercial broadcaster TV Prima to stop broadcasting these services on their frequencies by the end of the year.
:: 06/12/2011
France - LCI and Paris Première remain pay-DTT services
The broadcast regulator CSA has declined the request by two broadcasters to change the status of their television programme services on the DTT platform.
:: 06/12/2011
Sweden - New applications available for on-demand Boxer subscribers
Subscribers to Boxer's on-demand services will be able to access new applications provided by Accedo.
:: 05/12/2011
France - DTT leading TV platform
The CSA has published its data regarding digital television penetration in France for the first half of 2011.
:: 04/12/2011
France - Report suggests up to 40 HD/DTT services by 2020
The Ministry of Industry issued a report on future spectrum needs. The report was prepared by Tera Consultants on behalf of the Ministry of Industry and the Ministry of Communications.
:: 04/12/2011
France - No further DTT services from France Télévisions
The President of France, Nicholas Sarkozy, has reportedly nixed the proposal to extend the services offered by the public service broadcaster France Télévisions on the DTT platform.
:: 01/12/2011
Italy - ASO progresses in October and November
November proved to be a busy month for analogue switch-off in Italy. During the month, switch-off was completed in the regions of Tuscany, Umbria and Viterbo.
:: 30/11/2011
Mongolia - Selection of DVB-T2
At its national Digital Broadcasting Forum, the Communications Regulatory Commission (CRC) of Mongolia announced plans to use the DVB-T2 standard for its DTT platform.
:: 30/11/2011
Italy - Sky Italia withdraws from DTT tender process
The pay satellite operator Sky Italia has withdrawn its application for a DTT license. Six multiplexes will be made available following the completion of analogue switch-off.
:: 30/11/2011
France - Analogue switch-off completed
Analogue switch-off has been completed in France. The last region, Languedoc-Roussillon, switched off all of its analogue services on 30 November.
:: 29/11/2011
United Kingdom - Ofcom head presents view on future spectrum management
The head of Ofcom, Ed Richards, presented his views on the future of spectrum planning in a speech to the ECTA regulatory conference on 29 November.
:: 29/11/2011
France - Analogue switch-off completed in overseas territories
The French overseas territories completed analogue switch-off on 29 November.
:: 29/11/2011
United States - Spectrum auction bill proposed
Republicans in the House of Representative have introduced legislation to allow for a broadcast incentive auction. This bill resembles a similar bill introduced in the Senate.
:: 29/11/2011
France - Law voiding "bonus channels" under review by government
The Council of Ministers is considering a law to revoke the "bonus channels" that had been allocated to the incumbent broadcasters on the terrestrial platform in the March 2007 law on digital switchover.
:: 29/11/2011
Russia - Regional services to be made available on DTT platform
One of the television service slots on the DTT platform will be reserved for regional broadcasters.
:: 28/11/2011
Portugal - ASO marketing campaign launched
The communications regulator Anacom, responsible for leading digital switchover, has formally launched its DTT marketing campaign.
:: 28/11/2011
France - Second HbbTV trial launches on DTT platform
The Association for the Development of Enhanced TV Services and Interactivity (AFDESI) has launched a broadcast / broadband trial on the DTT platform.
:: 25/11/2011
France - DVB-T2 trial in Rennes
The CSA has authorised the broadcast network operator TDF to begin a trial of the DVB-T2 standard in the northwestern city of Rennes.
:: 25/11/2011
Spain - Selection of HbbTV standard
The Ministry of Industry has announced its selection of the HbbTV standard for broadband / broadcast services.
:: 25/11/2011
Portugal - RTP to lose one service on DTT platform
The government has announced that it will close one of the DTT services operated by the public service broadcaster RTP.
:: 23/11/2011
United Kingdom - ASO completed in East Anglia
Analogue switch-off has been completed in Norfolk and north Suffolk with the switch-off of the analogue channels BBC 1, ITV, Channel 4 and Five.
:: 23/11/2011
Poland - Mobile telecom operators fined for hindering DVB-H
The competition regulator, UOKiK, announced that it has imposed a fine of PLN 113 million (€25 million) to four mobile telecom operators for participating in a cartel.
:: 23/11/2011
Spain - DVB-T2 trial in Barcelona
The broadcast network operator Abertis Telecom is conducting a trial of the DVB-T2 standard.
:: 22/11/2011
France - 5% tax on DTT license re-sale
The Senate has approved an amendment that would apply a tax of up to 5% to the sale of DTT frequency licenses. The tax would only apply to those DTT licenses obtained from the broadcast regulator, CSA, at no charge.
:: 22/11/2011
The public service broadcaster France Télévisions is in discussion with the government for the allocation of frequencies to use for the provision of its service France 5 in high-definition on the DTT platform.
:: 21/11/2011
Slovakia - Two applicants for DTT license
The communications regulator Slovak Telecommunications Office (TU SR) announced that it has received two applicants for its tender to operate the fourth DTT multiplex.
:: 21/11/2011
Spain - Government agrees digital migration plan
In its last cabinet meeting, the Socialist government approved the frequency plan for the period between July 2012 and 31 December 2014.
:: 21/11/2011
According to information published by the DTT platform operator Antenna Hungaria, 850,000 households own at least one DTT receiver.
:: 18/11/2011
Spain - New DTT entrants grow audience share
According to a report published by EGEDA, the new television programme services on the DTT platform increased their audience share in 2010.
:: 17/11/2011
European Council publishes reasoning for RSPP proposal
The Council of the European Union has issued its reasoning for its position regarding the Radio Spectrum Policy Programme (RSPP).
:: 17/11/2011
Hungary - 37,000 pay-DTT subscribers
According to the latest data published by the National Communications Authority, NIH, the pay-DTT platform MinDig TV Extra had 37,787 subscribers as of September 2011.
:: 15/11/2011
Austria - ORS applies for DVB-T2 license
The broadcast network operator ORS has confirmed that it has submitted an application for the license to operate two DTT multiplexes.
:: 15/11/2011
United Kingdom - Freeview launches new marketing campaign
The free-to-air DTT umbrella organisation, Freeview, has announced that it will launch a new marketing campaign on Friday, 18 November.
:: 15/11/2011
Czech Republic - Nova TV supports launch of HD/DTT services
In a wide-ranging interview, the head of the commercial broadcaster Nova TV Jan Andrusko supported the provision of HD services on the DTT platform.
:: 15/11/2011
Bulgaria - DTT multiplex allocation expected in 2014
In a letter to the European Commission, the Ministry of Transport and Communications has stated that it will open a tender for the operation of a DTT multiplex in 2014.
:: 15/11/2011
The cable association Cable Europe is questioning the draft Radio Spectrum Policy Programme (RSPP) tentatively agreed by the European Council and members of the European Parliament.
:: 14/11/2011
Switzerland - Bakom reviewing applicants for 800 MHz auction
The communications regulator Bakom has announced that it is in the process of reviewing the applications received for the participation in the auction of the 800 MHz band.
:: 14/11/2011
Joint declaration on future of DTT standards
Heads of broadcast organisations from around the world have signed the Joint Declaration on the Future of Broadcasting TV.
:: 13/11/2011
Sri Lanka - Harris to provide DVB-T2 network
The public service broadcaster Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation (SLRC) will migrate to digital technology using the DVB-T2 standard.
:: 12/11/2011
United States - Twin Cities lead in DTT households
The Twin Cities, St Paul and Minneapolis, lead in the overall percentage of terrestrial television households among the major urban areas.
:: 11/11/2011
Australia - Terrestrial viewers at all-time high
According to the industry group Free TV Australia, 14.3 million people watch terrestrial television services each day. This figure represents a 7 year high.
:: 10/11/2011
Czech Republic - DVB-T2 for pay-DTT services?
The head of the broadcast network operator Radiokomunikace, Kamil Levinsky, has suggested that the DVB-T2 standard should be used to provide pay-DTT services.
:: 10/11/2011
Croatia - DVB-T2 for commercial DTT services
A DVB-T2 trial is currently underway and plans are underway to use the DVB-T2 standard for commercial DTT services.
:: 08/11/2011
Italy - Over 2 million pay-DTT subscribers
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset published its financial results for the nine month period ending 30 September.
:: 08/11/2011
France - Media groups call for greater concentration on DTT platform
The historic media groups in the broadcast industry have called for greater support in the development of their activities.
:: 07/11/2011
Sweden - Boxer launches on-demand service
The DTT service provider Boxer has launched a video on-demand service on its DTT platform on 7 November.
:: 04/11/2011
United Kingdom - New MHEG services on Freeview
The television programme service Challenge, which offers classic television game shows, has updated its interactive service on the DTT platform.
:: 03/11/2011
Czech Republic - DVB-T2 trial may be forced to stop by end of year
The DVB-T2 trial currently underway by the broadcast network operator Ceske Radiokomunikace (CRa) may be forced to end in 2012.
:: 02/11/2011
Ukraine - Case brought forward against DTT license award
A panel of judges had decided to combine into a single case the legal complaints brought forward by the broadcasters who failed to receive a license on the DTT platform.
:: 01/11/2011
United States - Future of TV Coalition to promote over-the-air TV
A new organisation has formed to help protect terrestrial television services. Known as The Future of TV Coalition, the organisation is administered by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB).
:: 01/11/2011
United Kingdom - Channel 5 only applicant for HD/DTT license
The broadcaster Channel 5 is expected to be allocated a license for an HD service on the DTT platform.
:: 01/11/2011
The Office for Public Appeals has cancelled the outcome of the DTT tender following a complaint from one of the failed bidders.
:: 01/11/2011
United Kingdom - Ofcom publishes Communications Infrastructure Report
The communications regulator Ofcom has published its first Communications Infrastructure Report.
:: 31/10/2011
The broadcast network operator Towercom has stopped its trial of the DVB-T2 standard.
:: 29/10/2011
France - France 24 interested in joining DTT platform
The continuous news service France 24 is expected to apply for a license for the free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 28/10/2011
An informal compromise between the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers on the Radio Spectrum Policy Programme (RSPP) has been agreed.
:: 27/10/2011
United Kingdom - 3.1 million HD/DTT receivers sold
The DTT promotions organisation Freeview has reported that 3.1 million Freeview HD (HD/DTT) receivers have been sold in the United Kingdom as of the end of September.
:: 26/10/2011
Slovakia - Tender open for fourth DTT multiplex
The communications regulator Slovak Telecommunications Office (TU SR) is inviting candidates to tender for the license to operate the fourth DTT multiplex.
:: 26/10/2011
Austria - ORF launches Sport Plus and ORF 3
The public service broadcaster ORF announced that it has launched two new television programme services, ORF 3 and ORF Sport Plus, on 26 October.
:: 26/10/2011
Norway - Revenue increases for Norkring
In the presentation of its quarterly results, Telenor highlighted the strong growth of its subsidiary Norkring.
:: 25/10/2011
Spain - abertis telecom showcases TDTcom solution
At the Broadcast IT exhibition held in Madrid on 25-28 October, the broadcast network operator abertis telecom showcased its solution for broadband / broadcast services using the HbbTV standard.
:: 25/10/2011
Poland - TVP 1 and TVP2 to launch HD/DTT services
The public service broadcaster TVP has announced plans to launch two HD television programme services on the DTT platform.
:: 25/10/2011
Netherlands - KPN increases television market share
The incumbent telecom operator KPN continues to increase its share of the television market. At the end of 30 September, it had a total of 1.342 million television subscribers.
:: 24/10/2011
United States - Mobile TV coverage to reach 50% by end of year
According to the Mobile Content Venture (MVC), its mobile television services will be available to 50% of the population by the end of 2011.
:: 24/10/2011
France - CSA suspends 4G trial during weekend
It has been reported that the broadcast regulator CSA specifically requested an end to the 4G trial currently underway in the region of Laval during the weekend of 15/16 October.
:: 24/10/2011
Russia - DigiTAG member meets with Deputy Minister of Communications
DigiTAG Steering Board member Stan Baayens, CEO of Funke Digital TV, has met with the the deputy head of the Ministry of Communications, Alexei Malinin.
:: 19/10/2011
Latvia - TV3 to join pay-DTT platform?
The commercial broadcaster TV3 has announced its plans to no longer be available on the free-to-air DTT platform as of January 2012.
:: 19/10/2011
Czech Republic - DTT coverage reaches 100%
In its report on digital switchover progress, the communications regulator CTU noted that the transition is progressing according to plan as of 30 September 2011.
:: 18/10/2011
Germany - Lauch of LTE services in Dusseldorf
The telecom operator Vodafone has announced the launch of its new LTE network in Dusseldorf. The LTE network was officially launched on 18 October.
:: 18/10/2011
France - CSA opens tender for 6 HD/DTT licenses
The CSA has opened the tender for six licenses on the DTT platform. These new services will be available in high-definition (HD) using the DVB-T and MPEG-4 AVC standards.
:: 18/10/2011
United Kingdom - Freeview HD app available
Freeview has launched an updated application for iPad, Adroid and iPhone tablets and smartphones that provides users with a television guide for Freeview HD services.
:: 18/10/2011
Lithuania - TEO announces 147,000 pay TV subscribers
According to the earnings report published by the incumbent telecom operator TEO, it has a total of 147,100 television subscribers.
:: 18/10/2011
Poland - Warsaw to complete ASO in March 2013
Details about the analogue switch-off process has been revealed by Tomasz Berezowski, a board member for the commercial broadcaster TVN.
:: 17/10/2011
Ukraine - Zeonbud to offer DTT services free-to-view
The DTT platform operator Zeonbud has announced plans to encrypt its DTT services. However, the services will be available free-to-view.
:: 17/10/2011
The manufacturer Elgato has announced the launch of its DVB-T tuner for the iPad2, called EyeTV Mobile. This device allows the user to watch television from the DTT platform on their iPad2 device.
:: 17/10/2011
Italy - AgCom announces shortlist for DTT license tender
The communications regulator AgCom has shortlisted the candidates for DTT frequency licenses.
:: 15/10/2011
Nigeria - GOtv launches in Ibadan
Multichoice has launched its pay-DTT service, GOtv, in Ibadan, Nigeria on 15 October. Ibadan is the country's third largest city.
:: 14/10/2011
Portugal - Anacom opens consultation on cost of broadcast transmissions
The communications regulator has opened a consultation on the price that broadcasters must pay for the transmission of their analogue terrestrial televisions services.
:: 14/10/2011
United Kingdom - ASO to be completed on 24 October 2012
Digital UK, the organisation leading analogue switch-off in the United Kingdom, has announced that the process will be completed on 24 October 2012.
:: 13/10/2011
Portugal - ASO completed in Nazaré and Alcobaca
Analogue switch-off is scheduled to take place on 13 October at 15.35 in the regions of Nazaré and Alcobaça.
:: 12/10/2011
Malta - ASO set for 31 October
Analogue switch-off has been confirmed for 31 October 2011. On this date, the four free-to-air analogue terrestrial channels, TVM, Net TV, One and Smash TV, will be switched off.
:: 12/10/2011
Ukraine - Zeonbud launches services with DVB-T2
The DTT platform operator Zeonbud has launched its DTT services using the DVB-T2 standard. Services will be availble to 95% of the population by the end of October.
:: 11/10/2011
France - No immediate launch of DVB-T2
The Prime Minister, François Fillon, has issued a press release calling for a "natural transition" towards DVB-T2.
:: 11/10/2011
France - Cancellation of bonus channels and launch of new DTT license tender
The Prime Minister, François Fillon, has announced plans for new legislation cancelling the so-called bonus channels on the DTT platform for incumbent broadcasters.
:: 11/10/2011
EBU Reports on the Future of Terrestrial Broadcasting
The Technical Committee of the European Broadcasting Union has recently published a Technical Report (TR013) which examines the role of distribution by terrestrial transmission for television and radio broadcasting.
:: 10/10/2011
Italy - RAI challenges DTT tender process
The DTT tender process faces new scrutiny following a decision by the public service broadcaster RAI to appeal to the administrative courts. In its appeal, RAI is calling for an automatic DTT frequency allocation.
:: 10/10/2011
Austria - Launch of Schau TV on DTT platform
A new television programme service, Schau TV, will launch on the DTT platform in Vienna.
:: 07/10/2011
Portugal - 90% of households in Nazaré ready for ASO
According to a survey conducted by Marktest, 90% of households are ready for analogue switch-off in the region of Nazaré as of the end of September.
:: 07/10/2011
Slovakia - DVB-T2 trial in Borskom Mikulasi
The broadcast network operator Towercom has extended its trial of DVB-T2 to the area of Borskom Mikulasi.
:: 06/10/2011
United Kingdom - BBC Trust calls for launch of BBC Two HD
In its proposed changes to the services provided by the BBC, the BBC Trust is calling for the launch of an HD version of BBC Two.
:: 05/10/2011
Romania - Legislative framework still lacking
According to the the minister of communications, Valerian Vreme, Romania lacks the necessary legislative framework to complete digital switchover.
:: 04/10/2011
Ghana - Government adopts DVB-T2
The government has approved the use of the DVB-T2 standard for the DTT platform. It has also approved the roadmap for digital switchover.
:: 03/10/2011
United Kingdom - DTG issues D-Book version 7
The Digital TV Group (DTG) has issued the 7th edition of its specification for the DTT platform, the D-Book.
:: 30/09/2011
Italy - Vodafone acquires frequencies in the 800 MHz band
Vodafone Italy has been awarded a total of 60 MHz (2x30 MHz) of spectrum in a recent government auction. Vodafone plans to use this spectrum to launch mobile broadband services using LTE technology.
:: 30/09/2011
Hungary - Technical changes to the DTT platform announced
The broadcast network operator Antenna Hungaria has announced several technical changes to the DTT platform as it prepares to launch a new multiplex.
:: 29/09/2011
Italy - Government completes 'digital dividend' auction
The government has completed its auction of frequencies for mobile broadband services using LTE technologies. Frequencies were located in the 800 MHz, 1.8 GHz and 2.6 GHz bands.
:: 29/09/2011
Hungary - Chellomedia services join DTT platform
Tne media group Chellomedia has confirmed that it will launch services on the pay-DTT platform MinDig TV Extra.
:: 29/09/2011
France - EC declares "bonus channels" illegal
The European Commission (EC) has issued a reasoned opinion regarding the allocation of the so-called "bonus channels" on the DTT platform to the three incumbent broadcasters in France, TF1, M6 and Canal+.
:: 28/09/2011
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Oxfordshire
Analogue switch-off was completed in Oxfordshire, parts of Berkshire and Buckinghamshire in the night between 27 and 28 September.
:: 27/09/2011
Netherlands Antilles - Curacao and St. Maarten Islands allow for DVB-T2 on pay platform
The islands of Curacao and St. Maarten, formerly territories of the Netherlands Antilles, may use the DVB-T2 standard for their pay-DTT platform.
:: 27/09/2011
Hungary - ASO dates to be announced in October
According to the Vice-President of the National Media and Telecommunications Authority (NMHH), Gábor Mátrai, the regulator is considering the possibility fir a two-stage analogue switch off.
:: 27/09/2011
Czech Republic - CRa interested in launching HD/DTT using DVB-T2
The broadcast network operator Ceske Telekomunikace (CRa) has expressed its interest in launching services using the DVB-T2 standard.
:: 27/09/2011
France - EC expected to declare "bonus" channels illegal
According to the newspaper La Libre, the European Commission (EC) is expected to declare illegal the French government's plan to allocate "bonus" DTT channels to the three incumbent commercial broadcasters.
:: 27/09/2011
United States - Report suggests that there is no spectrum shortage
A new report published by Citigroup Global Markets states that wireless broadband providers do not face a lack of spectrum in the United States.
:: 26/09/2011
Russia - Government commission favours DVB-T2
A governmental commission has recommended the use of the DVB-T2 standard on the DTT platform. Currently, the platform has been launched using the DVB-T standard.
:: 26/09/2011
Spain - Difficulties for pay-DTT service Canal+ 2
The television programme service Canal+ 2, available on the pay-DTT platform, is facing difficulties.
:: 26/09/2011
Spain - Trouble for regional broadcasters
According to Rapid TV News, regional broadcasters in Spain are in crisis. Depending on reports, they are losing between €772 million and €90 million each year.
:: 25/09/2011
Italy - Opposition critical of DTT allocation process
Opposition is mounting against the government's plans to allocate 5 DTT multiplexes. These multiplexes will be made available following the completion of analogue switch-off in 2012.
:: 23/09/2011
Bulgaria - Sale of NURTS completed
The incumbent telecom operator Vivacom has sold its remaining 50% stake in the broadcast network operator NURTS.
:: 22/09/2011
DTT leads in France, Italy and Spain
NPA Conseil has published an overview of the DTT platform in Europe showing that it is used by an average of 53% of households in Europe.
:: 21/09/2011
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Yorkshire, Stoke and Newcastle, and the West Midlands
Analogue switch-off has been completed in the regions of Yorkshire, Stoke-on-Trent, Newcastle-under-Lyme, and the West Midlands on the night between 20 and 21 September.
:: 21/09/2011
United Kingdom - ASO completed for 63% of the population
Nine out of the 15 regions in the United Kingdom have now completed analogue switch-off. This follows the switch-off in Yorkshire and the West Midlands on 21 September.
:: 21/09/2011
Spain - National government refuses to fund further DTT roll-out
The government has announced that it will not fund the further roll out of DTT services. Rather, it will be the role of regional and local governments to do so.
:: 20/09/2011
Hungary - DTT platform used by 250,000 households
According to monthly sales statistics compiled by GfK Hungária, 730,000 households have the necessary equipment to be able to access the DVB-T platform.
:: 20/09/2011
Hungary - New pay-DTT services to launch on 1 October
The pay-DTT platform, known as MinDig TV Extra, is set to expand as of 1 October following the launch of a new DTT multiplex.
:: 20/09/2011
Lithuania - ASO to be completed by end Oct 2012
The government has announced that analogue switch-off will be completed in Lithuania on 29 October 2012.
:: 15/09/2011
Denmark - DVB-T2 Lite for digital radio trial
U-Media subsidiary Open Channel has received a license to test DVB-T2 services in the VHF channel 9D. This channel has a 1.7 MHz bandwidth and is traditionally allocated for T-DAB services.
:: 15/09/2011
Germany - ECJ confirms ASO subsidies in Berlin illegal
The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has confirmed that the aid given by the government in Germany to support digital switchover in Berlin-Brandenburg was illegal.
:: 14/09/2011
Denmark - Boxer to launch HD/DTT services in April 2012
The pay-DTT service provider Boxer has announced that it will launch services in HD on 1 April 2012.
:: 14/09/2011
United States - FCC to trial white space database
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced that it will begin testing a database system to allow devices to make use of spectrum available between television services (white spaces).
:: 13/09/2011
Croatia - Publication of minimum receiver requirements
The commuications regulator HAKOM has issued its minimum technical requirements for DVB-T and DVB-T2 receivers.
:: 13/09/2011
Spain - Discovery to join free-to-air DTT platform
The broadcaster Unidad Editorial (UE), owner of VEO TV, has announced that it will launch a new free-to-air television programme service on the DTT platform in January 2012.
:: 13/09/2011
Slovakia - Allocation of 6 DTT licenses
The Council for Broadcasting and Retransmission (RADA) allocated 6 DTT licenses at its meeting on 13 September.
:: 13/09/2011
DTT children services have strong audience share
A recent report published by Eurodata TV shows the growing importance of children programming on the DTT platform.
:: 13/09/2011
France - CSA pessimistic about allocation of bonus DTT channels
The CSA has published its report on the future of the DTT platform. In its report, the CSA notes its pessimism regarding the attribution of the so-called bonus channels.
:: 12/09/2011
United Kingdom - ASO information campaign begins for London region
Digital UK has officially launched its digital switchover campaign in London. Analogue switch-off will begin in London on 4 April 2012 and completed on 18 April 2012.
:: 12/09/2011
Ukraine - New licensing for regional DTT services
The National Council Radio and TV Broadcasting (NTVCU) has decided that it will tender again 162 licenses for regional DTT services.
:: 10/09/2011
Uganda - Pay-DTT service GOtv officially launched
Multichoice and DStv have launched its pay-DTT services in Uganda known as GOtv.
:: 09/09/2011
Multichoice to roll-out DVB-T2 network in 15 south African countries
The digital television service provider, Multichoice, will roll-out a DVB-T2 network across 15 south African countries.
:: 09/09/2011
The public service broadcaster STV completed analogue switch-off in early September. It is the first broadcaster to have done so.
:: 09/09/2011
France - Canal+ purchases 60% stake in Direct 8 and Direct Star
The media group Canal+ has announced that it has purchased a 60% stake in Direct 8 and Direct Star.
:: 08/09/2011
Germany - DTT license available in Rhine-Main region
The media regulator for the land of Hesse, Hessische Landesanstalt für privaten Rundfunk und neue Medien (LPR), has announced that it has a license available for one television programme service on its DTT platform.
:: 08/09/2011
Finland - Multiplex D to offer services using DVB-T2
The Finnish government has agreed to change the terms of the license for Multiplex D. This multiplex is operated by the broadcast network operator Digita.
:: 05/09/2011
Denmark - Boxer announces TV2 packages
The pay-DTT service operator Boxer has announced the pricing package for access to the commercial broadcast service TV2.
:: 05/09/2011
United Kingdom - Ofcom tenders new HD/DTT service license
The communications regulator OFCOM is inviting broadcasters to tender for a license to provide a high-definition television programme service on the DTT platform.
:: 05/09/2011
France - HbbTV officially launches on DTT platform
The public service broadcaster France Télévisions has announced the launch of HbbTV services on the DTT platform.
:: 02/09/2011
Poland - TVN acquires stake in U-TV
The commercial broadcaster TVN has acquired a stake in Stavka which holds a license to operate the DTT service U-TV.
:: 01/09/2011
Australia - 82% of households have digital television
The latest Digital Tracker Report for the period from April to June 2011 shows that 82% of households have converted to digital television. This is an increase of 3 percentage points from the previous quarter.
:: 01/09/2011
Germany - NDR launches HbbTV services
The public service broadcaster in northern Germany, NDR, has launched HbbTV services on the DTT platform.
:: 01/09/2011
United Kingdom - Ofcom provides further details on White Space plans
Ofcom has issued further information regarding its plans to make use of "white spaces" which are the unused frequencies between television services.
:: 31/08/2011
Ireland - BAI opens consultation on its Draft Broadcast Strategy
The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) has issued its Draft Broadcasting Services Strategy for public consultation.
:: 31/08/2011
Poland - TVP to launch regional DTT services
The public service broadcaster TVP has expressed interest in launching regional DTT services in each of the 16 voivodships.
:: 31/08/2011
Malta - Four new services join DTT platform
Four new television programme services have joined the free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 30/08/2011
France - SelecTV to launch in November
The pay-DTT service operator SelecTV will launch its services in November.
:: 28/08/2011
Latvia - Competition case against Lattelecom closed
The competition regulator, Konkurences Padome (KP) has decided to close the case that had been opened against the DTT operator Lattelecom.
:: 27/08/2011
The French government has published a decree regarding the use of frequencies by the analogue channel Télé Monte Carlo (TMC). TMC will cease all analogue terrestrial transmissions by 29 November 2011.
:: 26/08/2011
Czech Republic - Nova Cinema allocated official DTT license
The Czech Radio and TV Council has awarded the media group CME a 12 year DTT license for its television programme service Nova Cinema.
:: 25/08/2011
Ukraine - Reporters Without Borders attacks DTT licensing process
The non-government organization Reporters Without Borders, which aims to promote and protect press freedom, has written an open letter to the head of the National Council for TV and Radio Broadcasting questioning its allocation of licenses for the DTT platform.
:: 24/08/2011
Czech Republic - Nova TV to launch Kanal 5 on DTT platform
The Radio and TV Council (RRTV) has awarded the commercial broadcaster TV Nova a license for a television programme service on the DTT platform.
:: 23/08/2011
Ukraine - Failed bidders to take legal action against regultor
Broadcasters who failed to secure a license for the DTT platform are planning to take legal action against the broadcast regulator.
:: 22/08/2011
Russia - Rostelecom to support DSO
The broadcast network operator RTRS is expected to rely on the services of the national telecom operator Rostelecom for the roll-out of the DTT platform.
:: 22/08/2011
Ireland - Problems foreseen on broadcast network operator fees
The Irish broadcasting administration (BAI) has suggested that the network operator fees structure proposed for the DTT network may be financially unworkable.
:: 20/08/2011
Ukraine - DTT broadcasting started on 17 August in Kiev
As DTT transmissions were launched in the capital Kiev, the Ukrainian National Council for Television and Radio Broadcasting (NTVCU), announced the 28 programme services which will be carried on the first four nationwide multiplexes.
:: 19/08/2011
Greece - ERT expected to cut DTT offer
The government's planned cuts are expected to affect the DTT service offering from the public service broadcaster ERT.
:: 19/08/2011
Colombia - Government considering DVB-T2
The government is currently considering converting to the DVB-T2 standard on the DTT platform. It had previously announced plans to use the DVB-T standard.
:: 18/08/2011
Ukraine - DTT licence winners announced
The National Council for Television and Radio Broadcasting (NTVCU) has announced the winners of the DTT broadcast tender.
:: 18/08/2011
Czech Republic - TV Nova requests license for DTT platform
The commercial broadcaster TV Nova has requested an additional license on the DTT platform from the Radio and TV Council (RRTV).
:: 18/08/2011
United States - New ATSC standard for 2012
The Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) has announced plans complete a new DTT standard within the next year.
:: 17/08/2011
Canada - CBC given 1 year ASO extension
The broadcast regulator CRTC has granted the public service broadcaster CBC a one-year extension to the completion of digital switchover.
:: 11/08/2011
United States - Low-power sites to complete ASO by end of year
Low-power transmission sites will be required to switch-off their analogue broadcasts by the end of the year. The FCC has rejected a request by the National Translator Association to delay the switch-off.
:: 11/08/2011
Slovakia - New frequencies allocated for MUX 1
The communications regulator Telecommunications Office(TU SR) has taken back the frequencies in the 800 MHz band that had been allocated for the DTT platform.
:: 01/08/2011
Hungary - ASO of Channel 01 on 14 August
Antenna Hungaria has announced that the analogue service of the public service broadcaster, m1, transmitting from Channel 01 in Budapest will be switched off at midnight on 14 August.
:: 28/07/2011
Austria - Tender open for license to operate DVB-T2 multiplexes
The communications regulator KommAustria is inviting candidates to tender for licenses to operate two DTT multiplexes.
:: 22/07/2011
DVB issues DVB-T2 lite profile
DVB has published a new profile for the DVB-T2 specification. This profile is also known as T2-Lite and is intended to address receivers using low capacity applications.
:: 21/07/2011
Bulgaria - Vivacom sells remaining stake in NURTS
The incumbent telecom operator Vivacom (formerly BTC) has sold its 50% stake in NURTS to Bluesat Partners Ltd.
:: 21/07/2011
Belarus - ASO set for 1 January 2012
The government has announced that analogue switch-off will be completed on 1 January 2012. This is three years' earlier than initially anticipated.
:: 20/07/2011
Macedonia (fyr) - Boom TV launches new services
The pay-DTT platform, Boom TV, has increased its service offering. Viewers will be able to access two new movie services.
:: 20/07/2011
Ukraine - Inter Group strong interest in DTT platform
The media group Inter is showing strong interest in the DTT platform. It has submitted applications for 12 television programme slots on the platform.
:: 19/07/2011
Switzerland - Bakom issues 800 MHz auction documents
The communications regulator Bakom has issued the final documentation regarding the upcoming auction of the frequencies in the 800 MHz band.
:: 19/07/2011
Australia - Freeview audience share dominates pay TV
The audience viewing share for the services on the free-to-air DTT platform has surpassed that of services on pay television platforms for the first 6 months of 2011.
:: 18/07/2011
Poland - MUX-1 to launch by end of year
The DTT multiplex (MUX-1) is set to launch by the end of the year or in early 2012. It could also include one HD service from the public service broadcaster TVP.
:: 18/07/2011
United Kingdom - Government issues plans for local TV services
The Government has issued a new framework for local television services.
:: 15/07/2011
Poland - Launch of DSO information campaign
The communications campaign on digital switchover has officially been launched. This follows the launch of DTT services at the end of 2010.
:: 13/07/2011
Hungary - 220,000 DTT households
The number of households using the DTT platform increased by 52,000 in the period from January to May 2011.
:: 13/07/2011
United Kingdom - Ofcom opens consultation on renewal of Mux C and D licenses
The regulator Ofcom has opened a consultation on its proposals for the conditions for the licensing of Multiplexes C and D.
:: 11/07/2011
Czech Republic - Broadcasters can choose coverage areas on MUX 3
Broadcasters will have the opportunity to limit their target coverage areas on the DTT platform.
:: 06/07/2011
Poland - Polo TV joins DTT platform
Changes have been made to the television programme services available on the DTT platform.
:: 05/07/2011
Germany - Launch of sixx in Berlin/Brandenburg
A new television programme service will launch on the DTT platform in Berlin.
:: 05/07/2011
France - NRJ 12 launches trial HbbTV services on DTT platform
The broadcaster NRJ 12 has launched a pre-commercial trial of its interactive services on the DTT platform using the HbbTV standard.
:: 05/07/2011
Ukraine - Zeonbud uses Astra capacity for DTT network
The DTT multiplex operator Zeonbud has selected SES Astra to deliver television signals to its DTT network.
:: 05/07/2011
United Kingdom - BBC provides 3D/DTT coverage at Wimbeldon
The public service broadcaster BBC provided 3D coverage of the men's and women's final of the Wimbledon Tennis Championship on the DTT platform.
:: 04/07/2011
United Kingdom - 93.1% DTV households
Research published by Ofcom shows that 93.1% of households accessed digital television services during the first quarter of 2011. This is an increase by 1 percentage point in comparison with the same quarter last year.
:: 02/07/2011
Spain - VEOT TV shuts down on DTT platform
The television programme service VEO TV closed down on 30 June. It had been available on the DTT platform since 2005.
:: 01/07/2011
Slovakia - STV3 shuts down on DTT platform
The public service broadcasters, RTVS, has shut down its sports television programme service STV3. This service had been available on the DTT platform.
:: 30/06/2011
Ukraine - Deadline to submit DTT license application extended until 22 July
The National Council on Television and Radio Broadcasting (NRADA) has extended the deadline for receiving applications for licenses on the DTT platform until 22 July.
:: 30/06/2011
Poland - Digital switchover legislation adopted by Parliament
The Sejm (Parliament) has approved legislation regarding digital switchover. It has approved the amendments proposed by the Senate.
:: 30/06/2011
Slovakia - DTT coverage roll-out completed
The broadcast network operator Towercom has announced that it has completed the roll-out of the current DTT platform.
:: 29/06/2011
France - CFoot to launch on 28 July
The new television programme service, CFoot, is set to launch on 28 July on the pay-DTT platform.
:: 28/06/2011
Germany - Tender for new DTT service in Hamburg region
The media authority for the region of Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein has announced that has opened a tender for a new DTT services.
:: 27/06/2011
United Kingdom - "White space" trial in Cambridge
The Cambridge TV White Spaces Consortium has launched a trial to provide wireless broadband services using "white spaces" in the broadcast frequency bands.
:: 27/06/2011
France - CSA issues opinion on use of frequencies in overseas territories
The CSA has given its opinion on the use of frequencies in the French overseas territories following the completion of analogue switch-off in November 2011.
:: 22/06/2011
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Scotland
Scotland has become the first fully digital nation in the United Kingdom. It completed digital switchover on 22 June at the Kirkfieldband transmitter near Lanark.
:: 22/06/2011
Singapore - Government seeks to migrate to DVB-T2
Plans are underway to launch services using the DVB-T2 standard in Singapore.
:: 17/06/2011
France - First phase of ASO completed in Rhône-Alpes
The region of Rhône-Alpes in the eastern part of France, near the Swiss and Italian border, has begun analogue switch-off.
:: 15/06/2011
United Kingdom - ASO completed from Craigkelly
Digital switchover has been completed from the Craigkelly transmission group on 15 June.
:: 14/06/2011
United Kingdom - Freeview to launch Really on 2 August
A new television programme service, Really, will launch on the Freeview platform on 2 August. It will replace the existing service Dave Ja Vu.
:: 14/06/2011
Finland - Government to tender DTT broadcast licenses
The government is inviting broadcasters to tender for capacity available on the DTT platform.
:: 14/06/2011
France - CSA opens consultation on the evolution of the DTT platform
The CSA has opened a consultation on the future evolution of the DTT platform. Responses should be made by 30 June.
:: 14/06/2011
The European Audiovisual Observatory (EAO) has published updated information about the DTT platforms in Europe.
:: 13/06/2011
Ukraine - Local services sign onto Zeonbud platform
The DTT multiplex operator Zeonbud has agreed to offer the services of the local media group StarLightMedia on its platform.
:: 10/06/2011
New Zealand - ASO to be completed by end 2013
The Minister of Broadcasting, Jonathan Coleman, has confirmed the dates for analogue switch-off in New Zealand. The process will be completed by December 2013.
:: 09/06/2011
Portugal - ASO communication campaign begins in Nazaré
The communications regulator ANACOM has announced that it will begin providing information on digital switchover in the region of Nazaré.
:: 08/06/2011
Slovakia - Analogue switch-off underway
Analogue switch-off is underway in Slovakia. The process began on 9 March and will be completed in August 2011 for the services of the public service broadcaster STV.
:: 07/06/2011
New Zealand - Government to aid regional broadcasters with DSO
The government has announced plans to assist regional broadcasters with digital switchover.
:: 07/06/2011
Taiwan - ASO to be completed by July 2012
According to Rapid TV News, the date for the completion of analogue switch-off has been moved forward by six months.
:: 06/06/2011
Israel - Proposal for more free-to-air DTT services
The government is expected to proposed legislation increasing the offer on the DTT platform.
:: 06/06/2011
Analogue switch-off has been completed in Austria. On 6 June, the last regions, Mariazell and Mürztal, switched off their analogue services.
:: 06/06/2011
United States - 15% DTT penetration
According to a report published by Knowledge Networks, 15% of television households rely on the terrestrial platform for their primary television services.
:: 02/06/2011
United States - Nationwide mobile TV services by the end of the year
The Mobile500 Alliance is planning to launch nationwide mobile television services by the end of 2011.
:: 02/06/2011
Czech Republic - TV7 risks losing DTT license
The communications regulator RRTV has begun the proceedings that could lead to the withdrawal of the DTT broadcast license held by EBD for its service TV7.
:: 02/06/2011
United Kingdom - Ofcom consultation on interferences from services in 800 MHz band
Ofcom has opened a consultation on its proposals to minimise interference that the DTT platform may face from mobile services operating in the 800 MHz band.
:: 01/06/2011
France - Government approves process for LTE licensing
The government has approved the process for the allocation of licenses for LTE services. These licenses will make use of frequencies in the 800 MHz band.
:: 31/05/2011
Malta - Amendments to Broadcasting Act expected soon
A recent survey commissioned by the Digital Switchover Committee estimates that 4,760 households in Malta rely on the terrestrial television platform for access to free television services.
:: 31/05/2011
Netherlands - 13th Street Universal joins DTT platform
The pay-DTT service provider KPN has announced that it will make the television programme service 13th Street Universal to its subscribers.
:: 31/05/2011
Czech Republic - DTT penetration reaches 52%
According to recent data published by Mediareseach, the number of homes relying on analogue terrestrial television services is decreasing.
:: 31/05/2011
Spain - Sogecuatro to rent out DTT capacity
The government is authorising the commercial broadcaster Sogecuatro to rent capacity on its DTT multiplex to DTS (Distribuidora de Televisión Digital).
:: 31/05/2011
Italy - Italia 2 to launch on 2 July
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset has confirmed the launch date for its new free-to-air television programme service Italia 2.
:: 31/05/2011
France - SELECTV to provide VOD services on DTT platform
The CSA has decided to allocate a license for the provision of on-demand services on the DTT platform to SELECTV. It is a subsidiary of the pay-DTT operator TV Numéric.
:: 30/05/2011
Austria - ASO to be completed on 7 June
Analogue switch-off is set to be completed in Austria on 7 June. On this date, the last analogue services in the regions of Steiermark and Niederösterreich will be switched off.
:: 30/05/2011
Netherlands - KPN launches new DTT advertising campaign
The pay-DTT service provider KPN has launched a new communications campaign about the recent changes to the platform offering.
:: 27/05/2011
United Kingdom - BBC Alba launches on Freeview
The Gaelic language television programme service, BBC Alba, will launch on the Freeview platform on 8 June.
:: 27/05/2011
Slovakia - DTT coverage reaches over 95% of the population
The broadcast network operator Towercom has increased the population coverage of the DTT platform.
:: 27/05/2011
Poland - Must-carry status for DTT services?
The National Broadcasting Council (KRRiT) is considering providing must-carry status to the 20 services that will be made available on the DTT platform.
:: 26/05/2011
Ireland - SAORVIEW officially launched
The free-to-air DTT platform has been officially launched by the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. It has been available as a commercial trial since October 2010.
:: 26/05/2011
Costa Rica - ASO to be completed in December 2017
The government has announced that it will begin digital switchover in September. The DTT platform will use the ISDB-TB standard.
:: 25/05/2011
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Argyll & Bute and Rosneath
Analogue switch-off has been completed from the Darvel and Rosneath transmitter group on 25 May.
:: 24/05/2011
France - ASO completed in Corsica and Côte d'Azur
Analogue switch-off has been completed in the region of Corisica and part of the region of Provence-Alpes Côte d'Azur during the night of 24/25 May.
:: 23/05/2011
Bulgaria - EC opens infringement procedure
The European Commission (EC) has opened an infringement procedure against Bulgaria over irregularities in its allocation of licenses to operate DTT multiplexes.
:: 23/05/2011
Portugal - ANACOM issues decree against misleading ASO information
The communications regulator ANACOM has announced that it is not permitted for companies to provide misleading information to viewers regarding analogue switch-off.
:: 23/05/2011
Austria - MHP services on DTT platform cancelled
The public service broadcaster has announced that it will switch-off its digital teletext services on the DTT platform in June due to a lack of viewer interest.
:: 19/05/2011
Italy - DTT penetration reaches 82%
According to research published by E-Res, over 20 million households relied on the DTT platform for their primary television services at the end of March.
:: 19/05/2011
Philippines - NTC ordered to consider DVB-T2
The government has requested that the communications regulator NTC to review the DVB-T2 standard. Last June, the NTC had called for the adoption of the ISDB standard.
:: 18/05/2011
EBU publishes report on DVB-T2 network and frequency planning
The EBU has published its report EBU Tech 3348 on network and frequency planning for DVB-T2 services.
:: 16/05/2011
Poland - ASO confirmed for 31 July 2013
The Parliament (Sejm) has approved the legislation on digital switchover. The new legislation confirms that analogue switch-off will be completed by 31 July 2013.
:: 16/05/2011
Ireland - Government issues major report on television viewing habits
The Department of Communications has issued a report on television viewing behavior in Ireland up to November 2010. It focuses on households that rely primarily on the terrestrial television delivery platform.
:: 12/05/2011
Council publishes its current position on RSPP
The Council of the European Union has published its progress report on the Commission's RSPP proposal. The report shows the modifications that it would like to the RSPP.
:: 12/05/2011
Russia - DTT coverage to reach 43 million people by end 2011
According to the deputy Prime Minister Sergei Ivanov, up to 43 million people will be able to access DTT services in Russia by the end of 2011.
:: 11/05/2011
EP approves RSPP with amendments
The European Parliament (EP) has voted massively in favour of the European Commission's Radio Spectrum Policy Programme (RSPP). This text includes the amendments proposed by the Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) Committee of the Parliament.
:: 10/05/2011
France - ASO completed in Auvergne
Analogue switch-off has been completed in the region of Auvergne in the center of France during the night of 9/10 May.
:: 10/05/2011
France - Audience share for new DTT services increases
The new television programme services on the DTT platform are increasing their audience share.
:: 10/05/2011
Italy - 19.6% Q-on-Q increase for Mediaset Premium
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset has announced a significant increase in revenue for its pay-DTT service Mediaset Premium in the first quarter of 2011.
:: 10/05/2011
Australia - Government makes $376 available for DSO activities in 2011-2012
The government has presented its budget for the 2011-2012 period which includes AUS $376.5 million in funding for digital switchover activities.
:: 10/05/2011
France - Six applicants for VOD services
The CSA has announced that it received 6 valid candidates for the provision of video-on-demand services on the DTT platform.
:: 09/05/2011
Portugal - First ASO phase set for 12 May
The first phase of analogue switch-off is set to take place on 12 May in the region of Alenquer.
:: 06/05/2011
United Kingdom - Intellect UK publishes report on future of DTT platform
The UK trade association Intellect has published a report on the future of the DTT platform.
:: 05/05/2011
Australia - ASO completed in Victoria
Analogue switch-off has been completed in the region of Victoria. The analogue services had been available from 66 transmitter sites.
:: 04/05/2011
France - Licensing tender for 800 MHz to begin in May
The Minister of Industry, Eric Besson, has announced that the licensing process for frequencies in the 800 MHz band will begin at the end of May.
:: 04/05/2011
Spain - Government to fund refarm of DTT services
The government has announced that it will finance the move of DTT services that currently make use of the frequencies allocated as part of the digital dividend.
:: 02/05/2011
Austria - DVB-T2 license tender this summer
RTR has published its two year Digitalisation Plan for Austria. The Plan announces the regulators objective to tender the operation of two DTT multiplexes using the DVB-T2 standard.
:: 01/05/2011
Spain - Euronews launches on DTT platform
The continuous new service Euronews is now available on the national free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 28/04/2011
Bosnia - Four bids for DTT operation license
The Ministry of Communications and Transport (FMPIK) has announced that it received four bids for the license to operate its DTT platform.
:: 27/04/2011
United States - ATSC considers second-generation system
The ATSC has begun work that may lead to the development of a second-generation DTT standard for deployment in the next 5 to 10 years.
:: 26/04/2011
United States - NAB publishes study debunking
NAB has published a study on the various options available to wireless networks for enhancing their data capacity.
:: 26/04/2011
Italy - Six DTT multiplexes to be available after ASO
The tender for licenses to operate multiplexes on the DTT platform is expected to take place in June.
:: 26/04/2011
Poland - KRRiT awards licenses for Multiplex 1
The National Broadcasting Council (KKRiT) has announced that it has awarded four licenses to broadcast DTT services from Multiplex 1.
:: 21/04/2011
Netherlands - KPN holds 16% digital TV marketshare
The incumbent telecom operator, KPN, holds a 16% share of the digital television market. KPN offers both IPTV as well as pay-DTT services.
:: 20/04/2011
United Kingdom - ASO completed in parts of the Central region
Analogue switch-off has been completed in four areas in the Central region covering over 600,000 television households on 20 April.
:: 20/04/2011
United Kingdom - Ofcom opens consultation on future use of UHF frequency band
Ofcom has opened a consultation on the future use of spectrum in the UHF frequency band from 460 - 790 MHz.
:: 20/04/2011
Japan - ASO delayed in Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima
The Ministry of Communications has announced that analogue switch-off will be delayed in the three areas most severely affected by the 11 March earthquake and tsunami.
:: 19/04/2011
Poland - DTT services available to 46% of the population
The broadcast network operator Emitel has announced that it has extended the coverage of DTT services.
:: 15/04/2011
Ukraine - Tender opened for services on DTT platform
The National Council on Television and Radio Broadcasting (NRADA) has opened a tender for broadcast services on the DTT platform.
:: 15/04/2011
United Kingdom - DMOL issues initial feedback to consultation
DMOL, the technical operator of the DTT platform, has issued initial feedback its consultation on Logical Channels Number (LCN).
:: 14/04/2011
France - HbbTV trial on DTT platform in Normandy
The regioinal broadcaster Normandie TV, with services available on the DTT platform, has begun a hybrid broadband / broadcast trial using the HbbTV standard.
:: 13/04/2011
United Kingdom - ASO in the Midlands
Two areas - Nottingham and Sandy Heath - have completed analogue switch-off on 13 April. Both areas are located in the Midlands.
:: 12/04/2011
The Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) Committee of the European Parliament has given its voted its approval of the European Commission's (EC)proposed Radio Spectrum Policy Programme (RSPP).
:: 12/04/2011
France - Government may try to delay award of DTT
The government is suggesting that it may launch a consultation on the future of the DTT platform.
:: 07/04/2011
United Kingdom - London to begin ASO on 4 April 2012
Digital UK has announced the dates for analogue switch-off in London and its surrounding region.
:: 06/04/2011
United Kingdom - Capacity to be available on MUX A
The DTT multiplex operator SDN has announced that it has capacity available on Multiplex A for the transmission of a new television programme service.
:: 06/04/2011
France - Broadcasters express interest in launching TV services on DTT platform
Interest in providing services on the DTT platform is growing. Several broadcasters have announced plans to tender for capacity on platform once analogue switch-off is completed.
:: 06/04/2011
France - 16.1 million DTT households
The latest information published by the CSA shows that 91.6% of households receive digital television services. In addition, 69% of households have converted all of their television sets to digital services.
:: 05/04/2011
Poland - TV6 to launch on DTT platform
The media group Polskie Media has announced plans to launch a new entertainment service, TV6, on 30 May.
:: 05/04/2011
United Kingdom - 10 million DTT-only households at the end of 2010
Latest figures published by Ofcom show that 92.5% of households received digital television services at the end of 2010.
:: 04/04/2011
Spain - Nearly 350,000 pay-DTT subscribers
In a report published by the Telecommunications Market Commission (CMT), the pay-DTT sector had 347,662 subscribers in 2010.
:: 01/04/2011
Spain - Royal Decree confirms auction
The government has approved a Royal Decree that that will make 310 MHz of spectrum available for wireless broadband services.
:: 01/04/2011
Czech Republic - ASO on schedule
In its report on the current progress of digital switchover, the communications regulator CTU has noted that the process is on schedule based on the plan adopted by the government.
:: 01/04/2011
Russia - Interest in DVB-T2 growing
According to Broadband TV News, the Ministry of Communications is considering to launch DTT services using the DVB-T2 standard.
:: 01/04/2011
France - HbbTV trial underway in Auxerre
The CSA has authorised a trial of interactive services on the DTT platform.
:: 01/04/2011
Spain - Telecinco launches new service on DTT platform
The commercial broadcaster Telecinco has launched a new service, Divinity, on the free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 31/03/2011
Finland - DNA awarded license to operate new DTT multiplex
The DTT service operator DNA has been awarded a license to operate an additional DTT multiplex.
:: 31/03/2011
Thailand - Channel 5 completes its DVB-T2 trial
Channel 5, the television service of the Royal Thai Army, has successfully completed its first DVB-T2 trial.
:: 30/03/2011
Italy - Mediaset and DMT in talks to merge broadcast networks
Discussions are underway between the broadcast network operation subsidiary of Mediaset, Elettronica Industriale, and the independent transmission tower operator DMT.
:: 30/03/2011
United Kingdom - London to complete ASO before Olympic Games
Digital UK has confirmed that London will complete analogue switch-off in time for the Olympic Games next summer.
:: 30/03/2011
Netherlands - KPN to shut its DVB-H service in June
KPN has announced that it will end its DVB-H service, MobielTV, on 1 June 2011. The frequencies currently used for DVB-H will instead be used for the DVB-T platform.
:: 30/03/2011
France - M6 prepared to launch 2 free-to-air DTT services
In an interview published in Les Echos , the head of the commercial broadcaster M6, Nicolas de Tavernost, announced that his media group is prepared to launch 2 free-to-air services on the DTT platform by the end of the year.
:: 29/03/2011
France - ASO completed in Limousin and Aquitaine
Analogue switch-off has been completed in the regions of Limousin and Aquitaine during the night of 28/29 March.
:: 29/03/2011
Hungary - Over 200,000 DTT households
The free-to-air DTT platform, MinDig TV, is now used by 200,000 households which represents 25% of total terrestrial households.
:: 29/03/2011
Lithuania - GALA TV offers NTV Mir
The pay-DTT platform operator TEO has announced that it has made the availability of the Russian-language service NTV Mir on its GALA TV platform.
:: 29/03/2011
Ukraine - NTVCU considers pay-DTT services
The National Council for TV and Radio Broadcasting (NTVCU) is considering making licenses available for the provision of pay-DTT services.
:: 28/03/2011
Romania - DTT licensing expected this summer
The head of the communications regulator ANCOM, Catalin Marinescu, has given details about the plans to allocate DTT licenses as early as this summer.
:: 28/03/2011
Ukraine - Zeonbud selects DVB-T2
The DTT multiplex operator Zeonbud has opted to use the DVB-T2 standard in its DTT multiplexes.
:: 27/03/2011
New Zealand - DTT coverage to be expanded
The coverage of the free-to-air DTT platform, Freeview|HD, will be reach 86% of the population by September 2011.
:: 27/03/2011
Germany - Deutsches Musik Fernsehen to launch in Berlin
The music television programme service Deutsches Musik Fernsehen will launch on the DTT platform in Berlin and Brandenburg as of 1 April.
:: 25/03/2011
Poland - TP Emitel sold to Kapiri Investments
The broadcast network operator TP Emitel has been sold to Kapiri Investments for PLN1.7 billion (€422 million) by the incumbent telecom operator TPSA.
:: 25/03/2011
United Kingdom - DTG to issue D-Book 7 on 31 March
The DTG Council approved the publication of the D-Book 7 at its meeting on 23 March. D-Book 7 will be made available to DTG members as of 31 March.
:: 24/03/2011
France - Canal+ to launch Canal 20 on free-to-air DTT platform
The commercial broadcaster Canal+ has announced plans to launch a new free-to-air service on the DTT platform.
:: 23/03/2011
France - LTE trial results show interference problems
The results of an LTE trial undertaken near Laval showed interference problems between the LTE services and the DTT platform.
:: 22/03/2011
Italy - Mediaset Premium generates €700 million in revenue
According to the end of year results published by the commercial broadcaster Mediaset for 2010, its pay-DTT service Mediaset Premium generated a total revenue of €700 million.
:: 22/03/2011
United Kingdom - Ofcom opens consultation on 800 MHz band licensing proposal
Ofcom has opened a consultation on proposals for the allocation of spectrum in the 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz band. These frequencies are expected to deliver WiMAX and LTE services.
:: 16/03/2011
France - ASO dates announced for overseas territories
The CSA has announced the dates when analogue switch-off will take place in its overseas territories.
:: 15/03/2011
Ireland - Saorview advertising campaign begins
St. Patrick's Day served as the official launch date for the public information campaign introducing the free-to-air DTT platform Saorview.
:: 15/03/2011
Sweden - Boxer to offer 3D/DTT trial broadcasts
Pay-DTT service operator Boxer has announced that it will broadcast two sporting matches in 3D on the DTT platform in April.
:: 15/03/2011
Czech Republic - CRa interested in DVB-T2
The broadcast network operator Ceske Radiokomunikace (CRa) has expressed its interest in the use of the DVB-T2 standard.
:: 15/03/2011
Poland - 17 broadcasters seek DTT licenses
A total of 17 broadcasters have applied for licenses to operate services on the DTT platform Four DTT service slots are available on Multiplex 1.
:: 15/03/2011
Israel - Three DTT multiplexes expected by 2012
Analogue switch-off is confirmed for 30 March 2011, having previously been delayed from 2 February 2011.
:: 14/03/2011
Spain - Aid to purchase receivers for visually impaired
The European Commission (EC) has agreed to the government's plan to provide digital receivers to persons with visual disabilities.
:: 11/03/2011
Romania - TVR granted 1 DTT multiplex
The National Audiovisual Council (CNA) has approved a draft amendment to the Broadcasting Act which will allow the public service broadcaster TVR to launch DTT services.
:: 10/03/2011
Portugal - Government to provide support to low-income viewers
The government has confirmed that it will provide low-income households with assistance towards the purchase of DTT receivers.
:: 10/03/2011
Czech Republic - CRa offers DTT capacity to small broadcasters
The broadcast network operator České Radiokomunikace (CRa) has announced plans to make it easier for small television and radio broadcasters to join the DTT platform.
:: 08/03/2011
Romania - MCIS set to propose new DSO plan
The Ministry of Communications (MCIS) has reportedly prepared draft plans on digital switchover. The plans call for the launch of 6 DTT multiplexes by 2015.
:: 08/03/2011
France - ASO completed in Paris
During the night of 7-8 March, analogue terrestrial services were switched off in the region of Paris (Ile de France).
:: 04/03/2011
Sweden - PTS announces 800 MHz license winners
The Post and Telecom Agency (PTS) has announced the closure of its auction of licenses in the 800 MHz frequency band.
:: 02/03/2011
Italy - State Council rules that Sky Italia can participate in DTT tender
The State Council has ruled that Sky Italia can participate in the upcoming tender for frequencies on the DTT platform.
:: 02/03/2011
Austria - ASO to be completed on 27 April in Carinthia
Analogue switch-off is set to be completed in Carinthia on 27 April.
:: 01/03/2011
Spain - Re-scan necessary as some DTT services moved out of 800 MHz band
The government has announced that it has begun to move television services out of the 800 MHz band.
:: 01/03/2011
Australia - ACMA issues consultation on the digital dividend
The Communications and Media Authority has issued a consultation entitled Clearing the Digital Dividend .
:: 28/02/2011
Italy - Dahlia TV ends services
The pay-DTT operator Dahlia TV has ceased its operations.
:: 25/02/2011
Austria - Consultation opened on use of 800 MHz band
The telecom regulator TKK has opened a consultation on future frequency assignments including frequencies in the 800 MHz band.
:: 25/02/2011
France - Government response to EC enquiry on "bonus" DTT licenses
The French government has responded to the European Commission's (EC) enquiry into the attribution of capacity on the DTT platform to the incumbent broadcasters TF1, Canal+ and M6.
:: 25/02/2011
Norway - RIksTV profitable in 2010
The pay-DTT provider RiksTV has announced a profit of NOK 45.8 million (€5.9 million) for 2010. This is the first time it has made a profit since services launched in September 2007.
:: 23/02/2011
Spain - No obligation to extend DTT coverage beyond 95% of the population
The Minister of Industry, Tourism and Commerce, Miguel Sebastián, has confirmed that DTT coverage will not be extended beyond the requirements of the Technical DTT Plan.
:: 23/02/2011
Ireland - RTE to launch new services on DTT platform
The Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Pat Carey, has approved the new services that the public service broadcaster RTE has proposed to provided on the free-to-air DTT platform Saorview.
:: 23/02/2011
United Kingdom - 500,000 receive switchover help
The Switchover Help Scheme has announced that it has now helped 500,000 people switch to digital television.
:: 22/02/2011
Italy - Mediaset to launch Premium Net TV
Commercial broadcaster Mediaset has announced the launch of its new service, Premium Net TV, on 23 February.
:: 18/02/2011
Portugal - DECO to provide DTT receiver comparative testing
The communications regulator ANACOM has signed an agreement with the consumer protections association, DECO, regarding testing of DTT receivers.
:: 17/02/2011
Russia - 43 million residents to be able to access DTT service by end of year
The roll-out of DTT services continues and is expected to be available to one third of the population by the end of the year.
:: 16/02/2011
Romania - Broadcast industry calls on government to revive DTT
The broadcast industry has issued an open letter calling on the government to re-launch the digital switchover process.
:: 15/02/2011
Austria - Three DVB-T2 multiplexes to launch
The telecommunications and broadcast regulator, RTR, has announced plans to launch three additional DTT multiplexes.
:: 14/02/2011
New Zealand - Freeview receiver sales soar
December 2010 proved to be the month with the biggest sales of Freeview receivers since the launch of services in 2007.
:: 14/02/2011
France - 84.5% DTT penetration
According to the latest figures published by Médiamétrie and GfK, nearly 90% of households have at least one digital television set.
:: 14/02/2011
Spain - Government approves Royal Decree for HD/DTT
The government has approved new legislation for the DTT platform. The legislation attempts to regulate HD content and multiplex usage capacity.
:: 11/02/2011
Ukraine - NTVCU issues license warning
The National Council for TV and Radio Broadcasting of Ukraine (NTVCU) has warned UDTVN that it must launch its DTT services or risk losing its DTT license.
:: 07/02/2011
Serbia - Upgrade of transmission network begins
Work to upgrade the terrestrial television transmission network is underway in Serbia.
:: 03/02/2011
France - ASO completed in the North
Analogue switch-off has been completed in the northern part of France.
:: 03/02/2011
Poland - Interest in sale of TP Emitel
The sale of the broadcast network operator TP Emitel has attracted interest from four potential buyers.
:: 02/02/2011
United Kingdom - Over 1 million HD/DTT receivers sold
Sales of DVB-T2 receivers in the United Kingdom reached 1.2 million between the official launch of services in April 2010 and December 2010.
:: 01/02/2011
Sweden - HD/DTT reaches 75% coverage
The coverage of HD services on the DTT platform has been increased to reach 75% of the population since 1 February.
:: 01/02/2011
Serbia - New company to lead broadcast network
A new public company has been set up to manage Serbia's broadcast network infrastructure. It will take over from the national broadcaster Radio-Televizija Srbije (RTS).
:: 28/01/2011
Netherlands - BBC1 and BBC2 to join pay-DTT platform
The network operator KPN has added new services to its pay-DTT platform Digitenne.
:: 28/01/2011
Italy - Football League considering investing in Dahlia TV
The Italian Football League is considering to help the pay-DTT operator Dahlia TV ward off its expected liquidation.
:: 27/01/2011
Russia - No DTT subsidies from federal government
According to Igor Shchegolev, the Minister of Communications and Mass Media, the federal government will not subsidise DTT receivers.
:: 26/01/2011
Netherlands - Nearly 900,000 subscribers to the Digitenne platform
The number of homes subscribing to KPN's Digitenne platform decreased by 4000 in 2010 to reach a total of 895,000 households.
:: 26/01/2011
Israel - ASO delayed until March
The Ministry of Telecommunications has decided to postpone analogue switch-off.
:: 25/01/2011
Italy - New services to launch on Mediaset Premium
Commercial broadcaster Mediaset has announced that it will launch new services on its pay-DTT platform Mediaset Premium.
:: 24/01/2011
Lithuania - EC approves DSO aid scheme
The European Commission (EC) has decided not to open an enquiry into the measures adopted by the governmetns to aid low income families with digital switchover.
:: 24/01/2011
Czech Republic - Z1 to exit DTT platform
The broadcast service Z1, which provided continuous news, has announced that it will close. It was available on the DTT platform.
:: 21/01/2011
Estonia - Tender for free-to-air DTT service
The Ministry of Culture has opened a tender for a nationwide free-to-air television programme slot on the DTT platform.
:: 21/01/2011
Israel - New services to launch in 2011
The DTT platform is set to expand its service offering the addition of 5 new services.
:: 20/01/2011
Malta - Launch of free-to-air DTT services set for 1 February
The launch of free-to-air DTT services is set for 1 February. On this date, the public service broadcaster TVM will launch services.
:: 20/01/2011
Italy - Delays to DTT licensing
During a parliamentary question period, the Minister for economic development, Paolo Romani, gave an update on the licensing of new service providers on the DTT platform.
:: 20/01/2011
France - DSO aid extended to overseas territories
As part of the digital switchover process in its overseas territories, the CSA has agreed to extend the financial aid available to viewers.
:: 18/01/2011
United Kingdom - DTG recommendations on future of DTT platform receives government backing
The recommendations in a report published by the DTG last December on the future of the horizontal digital TV market in the United Kingdom have received the backing of government.
:: 18/01/2011
United Kingdom - 73% of households access DTT platform
The latest figures published by communications regulator Ofcom show that 92.6% of households had digital television at the end of September 2010.
:: 17/01/2011
Italy - Mediaset offers 3D content for DTT subscribers
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset has launched a near video-on-demand service on the DTT platform offering viewers access to 3D content.
:: 14/01/2011
United Kingdom - DMOL opens consultation on LCN list
DMOL, the company providing the technical management of the DTT platform, has opened a consultation on proposed changes to the Logical Channels Number (LCN) list.
:: 14/01/2011
South Africa - ASO moved to December 2013
The government has decided to move the date for the completion of analogue switch-off to December 2013.
:: 12/01/2011
Bulgaria - EC could invalidate DTT licenses
Digital switchover could face difficulties should the European Commission decide to invalidate the DTT licenses.
:: 11/01/2011
Italy - Mediaset announces plans to launch continuous news service
Commercial broadcaster Mediaset has announced plans to launch a continuous news service this year.
:: 11/01/2011
Italy - Dahlia TV to go into liquidation
The pay-DTT service provider, Dahlia TV, has entered into liquidation. Its shareholders have mandated the preparation of a liquidation plan.
:: 11/01/2011
Lithuania - Nearly full DTT population coverage achieved
The coverage of DTT services has been expanded with the installation of two new transmission sites.
:: 10/01/2011
France - Government calls for second digital dividend
The French Minister of Industry, Eric Besson, has called for further frequencies in the UHF band to be made available for wireless broadband services. Already, the frequencies from 790-862 MHz have been set aside for broadband services.
:: 07/01/2011
Ireland - ComReg discontinues mobile TV licensing procedure
The communications regulator ComReg has decided to discontinue the license award process for mobile television services.
:: 07/01/2011
Belarus - DTT coverage reaches 93%
The coverage of the DTT platform has increased to 93.48% of the population. The platform was first launched in July 2005 in the capital city Minsk.
:: 07/01/2011
Spain - Proposed regulation to support local PSBs
Some local broadcasters, unable to finance the cost of digital switchover, are considering stopping their broadcast services.
:: 05/01/2011
United States - NAB launches campaign to support DTT
The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), the organisation promoting broadcasters in the USA, has launched a new information campaign to support over-the-air television.
:: 04/01/2011
France - Likely delay to mobile broadcast TV services
Doubts are emerging whether it will be possible to launch mobile broadcast television services in France during 2011.
:: 30/12/2010
Portugal - Anacom announced ASO pilot dates and locations
The communications regulator Anacom has announced the dates and location for the analogue switch-off pilots in Portugal.
:: 25/12/2010
Germany - iMusic1 launches in Berlin
The music service iMusic1 will be available on the DTT platform in Berlin and Potsdam as of 1 January.
:: 23/12/2010
Poland - KKRiT to prepare tender for Multiplex 1
The National Broadcasting Council (KKRiT) has prepared a draft tender for licenses to provide television programme services from multiplex 1. A total of four licenses will be made available for the provision of free-to-air services.
:: 21/12/2010
United Kingdom - RTE to be made available in Northern Ireland
Viewers in Northern Ireland will be able to access new DTT services as a result of an agreement between the Irish and British governments.
:: 20/12/2010
Italy - Dahlia TV faces financial difficulties
The pay-DTT operator, Dahlia TV, is facing liquidity issues due to a reduction in the number of subscribers and a drop in the sale of smart cards.
:: 20/12/2010
United States - AT&T to purchase Flo TV's 700 MHz spectrum
The telecom operator AT&T has agreed to buy spectrum in the lower 700 MHz frequency band from Qualcomm.
:: 17/12/2010
Armenia - DTT license allocation contested
Two broadcasters are contesting the decision of the national regulator, National Commission on Television and Radio (NCTR), on the allocation of two DTT licenses.
:: 17/12/2010
Sri Lanka - ASO to be completed by 2017
The Minister for Mass Media and Information, Keheliya Rambukwella, has announced that Sri Lanka will complete digital switchover by 2017.
:: 17/12/2010
Croatia - Three new services on Multiplex D
The Croatian Electronic Media Council (AEM) has awarded three licenses to broadcst on Multiplex D.
:: 16/12/2010
Taiwan - DSO to be completed by 2013
Digital switchover is set to be completed in 2013. In order to ease the process, the government is set to invest NT$740 million (€18.7 million) for DTT receivers and transmitters.
:: 15/12/2010
France - CSA launches DTT iPhone app
The CSA has launched an application for the iPhone that allows users to determine DTT coverage.
:: 14/12/2010
France - CFoot allocated pay-DTT license
The CSA has selected CFoot for the attribution of a pay license on the DTT platform.
:: 14/12/2010
Czech Republic - CRa aquires Czech Digital Group
The broadcast network operator Ceske Radiokomunikace (CRa) has acquired the DTT multiplex operator Czech Digital Group (CDG).
:: 14/12/2010
Austria - ORS to offer hybrid satellite/DTT services to viewers
The broadcast network operator ORS is planning to launch a pay television service known as TV Direkt.
:: 14/12/2010
Germany - Deutsche Telekom completes wireless Internet trial in Wittstock
The telecom operator Deutsche Telekom has announced the finalisation of its two year high-speed wireless Internet project.
:: 13/12/2010
Slovakia - DVB-T2 trial to begin in 2011
A DVB-T2 trial is set to begin in the town of Zilina next year.
:: 10/12/2010
Italy - Interference from Italian transmission
The communications regulator HAKOM has noted that interference from Italy has caused interference to the Croatian DVB-T signal along its western coast.
:: 09/12/2010
Germany - No interest in DTT in Nuremburg
The Bavarian media authority BLM has not received any applications for the DVB-T multiplex in Nuremberg. Applications were due by 12 November.
:: 09/12/2010
Ukraine - New DTT license awarded
The National Council on Television and Radio Broadcasting has awarded the license for the operation of 4 national DTT multiplexes to a company named Zeonbud.
:: 09/12/2010
United Kingdom - LTE trial in Wales
Arqiva and Alcatel-Lucent have announced plans to undertake an LTE wireless technology trial. The trial will take place in Wales.
:: 08/12/2010
Russia - Third multiplex to offer HD/DTT services
According to the Minister of Communications, Alexei Malinin, a third multiplex will roll-out on the national DTT platform.
:: 07/12/2010
Croatia - RTL2 and Doma TV to launch on DTT platform in January 2011
The leading commercial broadcasters, RTL and Nova TV, have announced plans to launch new television programme services.
:: 07/12/2010
Czech Republic - Planning underway for DVB-T2 launch
The head of the Czech Telecom Office (CTU), Pavel Dvorak, has announced that the Czech Republic may open a tender for DVB-T2 licenses in 2012 or 2013.
:: 07/12/2010
Czech Republic - Macquarie Group purchases CRa
The Czech broadcast network operator, Ceske Radiokomunikace (CRa), has been sold to the infrastructure funds managed by the Macquarie Group.
:: 06/12/2010
Italy - 3D HD DTT trial underway in Piedmont
A 3D HD DTT trial is currently underway in the Piedmont region since 1 December.
:: 03/12/2010
Netherlands - 65.7% digital television households
The number of digital television households grew by 3.4% in the third quarter of 2010. A total 5.26 million households (65.7%) access DTV services across all television platforms.
:: 01/12/2010
Slovenia - ASO completed on 1 December
Analogue switch-off has been completed nationwide on 1 December at 3am.
:: 01/12/2010
New Zealand - Continued growth for DTT platform
The free-to-air DTT platform continues to register strong growth. A total of 58,417 DTT receivers were sold in the third quarter of 2010.
:: 01/12/2010
Hungary - 95% coverage by end of year
Fourteen new transmission sites will launch DTT services in December. This will allow the DTT network coverage to reach 95% of the population.
:: 30/11/2010
United States - FCC agrees new rules for wireless broadband in UHF spectrum
In a unanimous vote, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) agreed new rules to help free UHF spectrum for wireless broadband services.
:: 29/11/2010
Finland - DNA offers HD/DTT services for free in December
During the month of December, the DTT service provider DNA Oy will offer its HD services for free.
:: 29/11/2010
France - Commission inquiry into DTT
The legislative framework that permits the shut down of the analogue terrestrial platform and the launch of new broadcast services, known as Télévision du Futur (television of the future), is under investigation by the European Commission (EC).
:: 29/11/2010
Spain - Government may require HD label for broadcasters
In order to help viewers clearly distinguish between high-definition and standard-defintion television services, the Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce is preparing legislation that will oblige broadcasters to label their content.
:: 29/11/2010
Sweden - TLC and Cartoon Network to launch on Boxer platform
The pay-DTT service provider Boxer is adding two new services to the DTT platform.
:: 27/11/2010
Italy - 40 million DTT receivers sold
According to DGTVi, DTT penetration has reached 72% of households.
:: 26/11/2010
Switzerland - BAKOM to auction 800 MHz in 2011
The communications regulator BAKOM has announced that it will auction frequencies available in the 800 MHz band.
:: 26/11/2010
Thailand - DVB-H service launched in Bangkok
The broadcaster MCOT has signed a memorandum of cooperation with the manufacturer International Engineering Plc (IEC) in preparation for the launch of mobile broadcast services using the DVB-H standard.
:: 26/11/2010
Italy - ASO almost completed in the North
Analogue switch-off has been completed for nearly 12 million Italians on 25 and 26 November.
:: 26/11/2010
France - CSA opens tender for VOD services
The CSA is inviting candidates to tender for capacity on the DTT platform for the provision of Video-on-Demand (VOD) services [known as Services de Médias Audiovisuels a la Demand (SMAD) in French].
:: 25/11/2010
Italy - TIM ends DVB-H service
The mobile telecom provider TIM has announced that it will end its mobile broadcast television service using DVB-H. Vodafone Italia is considering a similar decision.
:: 25/11/2010
Italy - Two new services launched by RAI and Mediaset
The broadcasters RAI and Mediaset have launched two new television programme services on the DTT platform.
:: 24/11/2010
The pay television service provider Canal+ has announced that it has completed the analogue switch-off of its terrestrial pay channel Canal+.
:: 24/11/2010
SADC members opt for DVB-T2 / MPEG-4 AVC
Following a special meeting by attended by ICT ministers for the Southern African Development Community (SADC), members decided to adopt the DVB-T2 standard for DTT services in the region.
:: 23/11/2010
Russia - DTT coverage reaches 14% by end of year
The roll-out of the DTT platform has begun in Russia with coverage expected to reach 14% of the population by the end of the year.
:: 23/11/2010
South Africa - DVB-H service, DStv Mobile, officially launched
MultiChoice has announced the official launch of its DVB-H service, DStv Mobile, following several years of trial services.
:: 19/11/2010
United States - NBC and Fox announce plans for mobile TV service
The broadcasters NBC and Fox have announced plans to launch mobile television services in 20 regions of the country by the end of 2011.
:: 18/11/2010
Russia - Third DTT multiplex to provide regional services
Andrei Romanchenko, the head of the broadcast network operator RTRS has announced that the country's third DTT multiplex will be used to provide regional services.
:: 17/11/2010
Bulgaria - ASO delayed until 2015
The government has announced that it will delay the completion of analogue switch-off by two years to early 2015.
:: 17/11/2010
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Channel Islands
Digital switchover has been completed on a single day in the Channel Islands.
:: 17/11/2010
Slovakia - EC approved €7 million in DSO aid to broadcasters and network operators
The European Commission has approved a digital switchover aid scheme worth €7 million in Slovakia.
:: 17/11/2010
Cuba - Government planning digital launch
According to Rapid TV News, Cuba is preparing for digital switchover.
:: 17/11/2010
Croatia - HAKOM opens consultation on further DTT services
The communications regulator HAKOM has opened a consultation to determine market interest for the provision of DTT services.
:: 16/11/2010
France - ASO completed in Burgundy and Franche-Comté
Analogue switch-off has been completed in the regions of Burgundy and Franche-Comté on the night of 15-16 November.
:: 16/11/2010
France - DSO plans announced for overseas territories
France Télé Numérique has announced the digital switchover plans for its overseas territories.
:: 15/11/2010
Ireland - Government opens public consultation on RTE services
The Minister of Communications, Eamon Ryan, has opened a public consultation on the proposal for new services on the DTT platform.
:: 15/11/2010
Finland - Anvia begins DVB-T2 network testing
The DTT license holder Anvia has announced that it will begin testing on its DVB-T2 network as of 15 November.
:: 14/11/2010
Philippines - ABS-CBN ready for DTT roll-out next year
The broadcaster ABS-CBN has announced its DTT roll-out plans. Trials have been completed and the broadcaster is ready to begin next year in selected areas outside Manila.
:: 12/11/2010
Australia - 75% of homes digital-ready
The Digital Switchover Taskforce has published its Digital Tracker Report for the third quarter 2010. In this period, digital television adoption increased by 1% compared with the previous quarter to reach 75% of all television households.
:: 09/11/2010
Italy - 3.6 million Mediaset Premium pay-DTT cards
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset has issued its earnings report for the first 9 months of 2010 which showed a 61.4% increase in revenue for its pay-DTT service, Mediaset Premium.
:: 09/11/2010
United Kingdom - Ofcom opens consultation on white space technology
Ofcom has opened a second consultation on white spaces. In this consultation, Ofcom is seeking opinions on how white space technology can work in practice.
:: 09/11/2010
Australia - Government provides funding for DTT roll-out in rural areas
The government has agreed to provide $34 million over the next four years to expand the terrestrial television service offering in rural parts of Australia.
:: 08/11/2010
Sri Lanka - DVB-T2 selected for DTT platform
The Secretary to the Ministry Mass Media, W B Ganegala, has announced that Sri Lanka will use the DVB-T2 standard for its DTT platform.
:: 04/11/2010
Bosnia - Funding agreed to begin digitalisation of microwave links
The Council of Ministers has issued a decision to use the excess funds accumulated by the Communications Regulatory Agency to fund a part of a digitalisation project.
:: 04/11/2010
Spain - AUC denounces content on some local DTT services
The Association of Communication Users (AUC) has lodged a complaint with the government regarding the content on some local services on the DTT platform.
:: 03/11/2010
The multiplex operated by Unidad Editorial (VEO TV) will launch a general interest television programme service later this month.
:: 02/11/2010
Spain - Viewers can now access 33 services on DTT platform
Viewers in Spain can now access 30 free-to-air and 3 pay services on the national DTT platform.
:: 02/11/2010
Netherlands - Online.nl offers triple-play service with DVB-T
The Internet service provider Online.nl has announced that it will launch a triple-play offer with broadband, telephony and television.
:: 29/10/2010
Slovenia - Call centre set up to help viewers prepare for ASO
A call center has been set-up to help answer viewer questions in the run up to analogue switch-off.
:: 29/10/2010
Sweden - HD services launch on the DTT platform
HD services are set to officially launch on the DTT platform on 1 November. Viewers will be able to access both free-to-air and pay-DTT services.
:: 29/10/2010
Ireland - Unofficial launch of DTT services
Saorview, the free-to-air DTT platform in Ireland launched a trial of services on 29 October. The trial will verify the engineering integrity of the systems and to confirm coverage.
:: 29/10/2010
Spain - TeleMadrid opts for HD/DTT
In Madrid, the local broadcaster TeleMadrid has announced plans to provide its DTT services in high-definition.
:: 29/10/2010
Bosnia - Preparations underway for DSO
According to Broadband TV News, digital switchover is ready to begin in Bosnia & Herzegovina (BiH).
:: 28/10/2010
Romania - New DSO strategy expected
According to Broadband TV News, the Ministry of Communications and Information Society (MCIS) is expected to issue its digital switchover strategy in the next few months.
:: 27/10/2010
South Africa - SADIBA shows superiority of DVB-T/T2
The Southern African Digital Broadcasting Association (SADIBA) has issued a paper showing the superiority of DVB-T and DVB-T2 over ISDB-T.
:: 27/10/2010
France - TDF issues White Paper on technical standard for mobile broadcast services
The broadcast network operator TDF has issued a White Paper on the possible technical standards that can be used to broadcast video to handheld devices.
:: 27/10/2010
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Southwest Highlands
The Southwest Highlands and Islands region in Scotland has completed digital switchover.
:: 26/10/2010
Netherlands - Continued growth for pay-DTT services
The service provider KPN has announced that it had 899,000 subscribers to its pay-DTT service Digitenne at the end of the third quarter 2010. In addition, it had 245,000 subscribers to its IPTV service.
:: 26/10/2010
Poland - TVP announces DTT plans
The public service broadcaster TVP has unveiled its plans for the use of Multiplex 3 on the DTT platform. This platform, which has been exclusively allocated to TVP, will launch on 27 October.
:: 25/10/2010
France - Extension of DTT services
The CSA has announced that it has expanded the coverage of the DTT platform with the launch of services from the Privas - Crête de Blandine transmitter on 26 October.
:: 23/10/2010
Italy - Northern Italy to complete ASO by end of year
Analogue switch-off is set to be completed in the northern part of Italy by the end of the year.
:: 22/10/2010
The CSA has published a report on DTV penetration in France for the first half of 2010. According to the report, 85.8% of all television households receive digital television services on at least one television set.
:: 22/10/2010
Lithuania - TEO announces growth for pay TV services
In the presentation of its earning results for the third quarter of 2010, the pay-DTT service provider TEO announced that it had 121,600 subscribers to its television services.
:: 21/10/2010
Hungary - Antenna Hungaria confident ASO on target
The head of the broadcast network operator Antenna Hungaria, Jean-Francois Fenech, has expressed confidence that Hungary will be able to complete analogue switch-off by the target date of 31 December 2011.
:: 20/10/2010
France - ASO completed in Centre and Poitou-Charentes
The regions of Centre and Poitou-Charentes have completed analogue switch-off. The process began in the night of 18-19 October.
:: 20/10/2010
Australia - ACMA opens consultation on the digital dividend
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has opened a consultation on the use of the digital dividend in the 700 MHz band.
:: 20/10/2010
United Kingdom - ASO completed in North Scotland
Digital switchover has been completed by the 70,000 households in North Scotland. The area includes Inverness and the Great Glen.
:: 20/10/2010
Portugal - Portuguese invest 17 million Euros in HDTV
The Portuguese national TV channels have started investing in High Definition as part of preparations for the analogue switch-off (ASO) due to take place on April 26th 2012.
:: 19/10/2010
Austria - DVB-H services to end
Mobile television services using the DVB-H standard are set to end in Austria at the end of the year.
:: 19/10/2010
Romania - ASO to move to 2013?
According to the president of the communications regulator ANCOM, Catalin Marinescu, the date for analogue switch-off could be moved to 2013.
:: 18/10/2010
France - Three applicants for pay-DTT service license
It is reported that the French Football League (LFP), the broadcaster Canal+ and the pay-DTT service operator TV Numéric have applied to the CSA for the pay-DTT service license.
:: 15/10/2010
Spain - Second transition necessary as broadcasters to vacate 800 MHz band
In order to allow telecom operators to use the frequencies in the so-called 800 MHz band, changes will need to be made to the current frequency usage plan.
:: 15/10/2010
European cable TV subs fall as DTT usage rises
The proportion of EU households using cable TV fell from 34% to 30% between 2008 and 2009, giving a loss of around 8mn TV households, according to Strategy Analytics, which quotes the European Commission's latest household communications survey.
:: 14/10/2010
Poland - TVP prepares for launch of MUX 3
TVP is set to launch its services on MUX 3 on 27 October. This multiplex will provide viewers will free-to-air access to TVP's services in standard-definition.
:: 12/10/2010
Germany - HbbTV available on the DTT platform
The broadcasters Bayerische Rundfunk and ZDF have announced the launch of hybrid interactive services using the HbbTv standard on the DTT platform.
:: 11/10/2010
Nearly all EU countries to have launched DTT by end of year
The European Audiovisual Observatory has published its overview of the DTT platform in Europe.
:: 11/10/2010
France - Extension of VOD trial on DTT platform
The CSA has agreed to extend the video-on-demand (VOD) pilot currently underway in the city of Rouen.
:: 08/10/2010
The Communications Minister Austin Gatt confirmed that analogue switch-off is set to take place in June 2011.
:: 08/10/2010
Germany - RTL to end services in Nuremberg
The commercial broadcaster RTL has announced that it will cease its services on the DTT platform in Nuremberg on 1 November.
:: 07/10/2010
Poland - Vedia agrees to manufacture DVB-H receivers
The DVB-H license holder, Info-TV-FM, and the electronics company Vedia have agreed to cooperate in the roll-out of mobile broadcast services.
:: 07/10/2010
Slovenia - Launch of TV3 on Multiplex B
The operator of Multiplex B, Norkring, has signed an agreement with the broadcaster PRVA TV for the transmission of its service, TV3, on the DTT platform.
:: 07/10/2010
United Kingdom - BBC One HD to launch this Autumn on HD/DTT platform
According to the DTT promotions organisation Freeview, a total of 230,000 Freeview HD receivers have been sold.
:: 07/10/2010
United Kingdom - 60 million DTT receivers sold
The free-to-air DTT promotions organisation, Freeview, has announced that 60 million DTT receivers have been sold in the United Kingdom.
:: 06/10/2010
Spain - Hybrid DTT/IPTV service to launch
Vodafone has announced plans to launch a hybrid IPTV/DTT in Spain. The new service is expected to launch by the end of the year.
:: 05/10/2010
Croatia - Analogue switch-off completed
Digital switchover has been completed in Croatia on 5 October following the switch-off of analogue television channels in the region of Zagreb.
:: 05/10/2010
Finland - Four DTT service licenses awarded
The government has allocated four DTT service licenses for the provision of television services on Multiplexes B, C and E.
:: 02/10/2010
Uzbekistan - DTT platform launches in Samarkand
The coverage of the DTT platform has been expanded to include the city of Samarkand. The platform is available since September.
:: 01/10/2010
Denmark - Broadcast network operator sold to Teracom
The Swedish broadcast network operator Teracom has acquired formally the broadcast network operations in Denmark known as Broadcast Service Danmark A/S (BSD).
:: 30/09/2010
Poland - Launch of commercial DTT services
The second DTT multiplex has officially launched in Poland. The launch follows the agreement signed between commercial broadcasters and the broadcast network operator TP Emitel.
:: 29/09/2010
Spain - EC opens investigation into two govenment DSO funding projects
The European Commission has opened two investigations on digital switchover in Spain to determine whether they are in line with EU state aid rules.
:: 29/09/2010
United Kingdom - BBC allowed to make capacity jointly available with Arqiva
Ofcom has agreed to allow the BBC to enter into a joint agreement with Arqiva to make available capacity for the launch of one national DTT services.
:: 29/09/2010
France - ASO completed in Champagne-Ardenne and Lorraine
In the nights of 27 - 29 September, analogue switch-off began in the regions of Champagne-Ardenne and Lorraine. Analogue television channels were switched off in the night of 27 September in Champagne-Ardenne and the night of 28 September in the Lorraine.
:: 28/09/2010
Germany - DVB-T2 trial in Munich
The regional public service broadcaster, Bayerische Rundfunk, has launched a DVB-T2 test in Munich from the Freimann transmitter site.
:: 28/09/2010
Poland - KRRiT opens consultation on new DTT services
The National Broadcasting Council (KRRiT) has opened a consultation on the allocation of capacity on the DTT platform.
:: 24/09/2010
Spain - Antena 3 to launch HD/DTT service
The commercial broadcaster Antena 3 has announced that it will launch its HD services on the DTT platform on 28 September.
:: 24/09/2010
Poland - UOKiK opens investigation against telecom operators collusion against DVB-H services
The Office of Competition and Consumer Protection, UOKiK, has opened an investigation to determine whether the leading mobile telecom operators colluded against the DVB-H service provider Info-TV-FM.
:: 24/09/2010
United States - FCC reaffirms commitment to white space usage
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved a plan to allow for the introduction of unlicensed wireless devices in the so-called "white spaces".
:: 23/09/2010
Cable Europe issues research on LTE interference
New research published by Cable Europe shows that LTE devices can cause interference to existing television and broadband connections in real life situations.
:: 23/09/2010
United Kingdom - Launch of talking DTT set-top box
The manufacturer Goodmans has launched its Smart Talk DTT set-top box. This set-top box provides talking menus and programme guides and audible reminders to help those who struggle to read words on the television screen.
:: 22/09/2010
Latvia - Lattelecom adds 10 new services to pay-DTT packages
The pay-DTT service provider Lattelecom is adding ten new television programme services to its platform.
:: 22/09/2010
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Northeast Highlands
Analogue switch-off was completed from the Knockmore transmitter group in Scotland.
:: 21/09/2010
Spain - La10 launches on the DTT platform
The commercial broadcast group Grupo Vocento has launched a new service on the DTT platform.
:: 21/09/2010
Czech Republic - DTV uptake reaches 89%
The uptake of digital television is well underway in the Czech Republic. A total of 89.4% of households access DTV services.
:: 20/09/2010
EC presents its Radio Spectrum Policy Programme
In an effort to meet the European Union's commitments to the Digital Agenda, the European Commmission (EC) has published its proposed measures to deliver fast broadband to citizens.
:: 19/09/2010
United States - Low-power broadcast ASO by 2012
The FCC has proposed that low power television transmission sites turn off their analogue services in channels 52-69 by 31 December 2012.
:: 16/09/2010
Spain - MTV launches on free-to-air DTT platform
The music service MTV has joined the free-to-air DTT platform. MTV is owned by the Viacom media group.
:: 16/09/2010
Spain - Canal Sur begins HD/DTT testing
The regional public service broadcaster, Canal Sur, will test HD/DTT services. It will offer the UEFA Championship League games in HD.
:: 16/09/2010
Croatia - RTL and Nova TV awarded DTT licenses
The Council for Electronic Media (VEM) has awarded DTT broadcast licences to RTL and Nova TV. These new services will be available on Multiplex B.
:: 16/09/2010
New Zealand - ASO confirmed for 2013
Analogue switch-off is set to take place in 2013. DTT services launched in 2007.
:: 16/09/2010
South Africa - DVB-T2 trial in Soweta
The commercial broadcasters e.TV and M-Net have started a DVB-T2 trial in Soweta.
:: 15/09/2010
Slovakia - EC approves €11 million aid scheme
The European Commission (EC) has approved an €11 million aid scheme to help socially vulnerable households purchase digital television receivers.
:: 15/09/2010
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Aberdeen City and Shire
Analogue switch-off has been completed in the northeastern part of Scotland.
:: 14/09/2010
Italy - Mediaset awarded temporary DTT license
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset has been awarded a temporary license for testing from one DTT multiplex.
:: 13/09/2010
Finland - Ericsson to build DNA Oy's DVB-T2 network
The DTT service provider DNA Oy has announced that the construction of its DVB-T2 network is underway.
:: 13/09/2010
Germany - Lower Saxony ready to launch DVB-T2 by 2015
The Land of Lower-Saxony has announced that it may be able to launch DTT services using the DVB-T2 standard by 2015.
:: 13/09/2010
Italy - 2010 ASO calendar approved
The calendar for the completion of analogue switch-off in the northern part of Italy has been approved.
:: 13/09/2010
Finland - DNA to launch HD/DTT services by end of year
One of the license holders for the DVB-T2 platform, DNA Oy, has announced that its DVB-T2 network will reach 1.5 million viewers by the end of the year.
:: 10/09/2010
Saudi Arabia - Government looks to Freeview for DTT model
The government is planning to allow for the launch of a Freeview-like platform with many new free-to-air services.
:: 10/09/2010
Spain - Two new DTT services in Catalonia
The regional public service broadcaster in Catalonia, TVC, has announced plans to launch two new services on the DTT platform.
:: 10/09/2010
Finland - Digita to operate Anvia's DVB-T2 network
Anvia has announced that it will use the network operated by Digita for the provision of services on the DTT platform.
:: 10/09/2010
Slovenia - Local DTT services to launch in 5 regions
The regulator APEK has agreed to allow local DTT multiplexes to launch in five regions. The operators for these multiplexes have already been selected through public tender.
:: 09/09/2010
DVB-T2 licensing conditions announced
Sisvel, responsible for the DVB-T2 patent pool, has announced the licensing requirements for the use of the DVB-T2 standard.
:: 08/09/2010
Spain - La Sexta announces two new DTT services
The commercial broadcaster La Sexta has announced plans to launch two new services on the DTT platform. It has already been allocated a full DTT multiplex by the government.
:: 08/09/2010
According to the Digitalisierungsbericht 2010 Report, 62% of households access digital television services. This is an increase of 6.7% compared with 2009.
:: 07/09/2010
United Kingdom - 160,000 households access HD/DTT services
According to the head of Freeview, Isle Howling, the HD / DTT service is accessed by 160,000 households.
:: 07/09/2010
Finland - Launch of TDF Entertainment
The broadcast network operator TDF has set up a new television entertainment service operator, TDF Entertainment Oy, in Finland.
:: 06/09/2010
Mexico - DSO to be completed by 2015
The President Felipe Calderon has set a timetable for digital switchover. The process is set to begin in 2011 and be completed by 2015.
:: 03/09/2010
Poland - TV Puls plans for second DTT service
The commercial broadcaster TV Puls has announced plans to launch a second service on the DTT platform.
:: 02/09/2010
France - Direct Star to launch on DTT platform
A new service, Direct Star, will launch on the DTT platform as a replacement to Virgin 17. The new service will be dedicated to music and target an audience aged from 15 - 34 years.
:: 31/08/2010
Belarus - Pay-DTT platform launched
Since 1 June 2010, viewers in Minsk have been able to access pay services on the DTT platform from the service provider Cosmos TV.
:: 31/08/2010
France - Launch of DTT services in Aurillac
DTT services will launch in Aurillac on 1 September from the transmitter site Aurillac - Labastide-du-Haut-Mont.
:: 31/08/2010
Slovenia - Launch of Multiplex B
The DTT network operator Norkring has announced the launch of services in Slovenia. From 1 September, Multiplex B will begin providing services to viewers.
:: 30/08/2010
The media group Unidad Editorial has launched a new service on the DTT platform. Known as Marca TV, the new service will offer sporting content.
:: 27/08/2010
Italy - Requests for Sky Italia's DTT Digital Key reaches 1 million
The satellite operator Sky Italia has announced that demand for its 'Digital Key' is approaching 1 million units. Each week, approximately 25,000 requests are made.
:: 26/08/2010
Australia - Eleven to join DTT platform
The commercial broadcaster Ten Networks has announced the launch of a new service on the DTT platform. The new service will be known as Eleven and will launch in early 2011 in standard definition.
:: 25/08/2010
Israel - ASO set for February 2011
Preparations are underway for analogue switch-off set to take place in February 2011.
:: 24/08/2010
Hungary - 100,000 DVB-T households
According to Antenna Hungaria, 100,000 households access DTT services. This represents 8% of the population.
:: 23/08/2010
Bulgaria - 50% stake in NURTS acquired by Mancelord
The telecom company Vivacom (BTC) has completed the sale of a 50% stake of its broadcast network operated by NURTS. The financial investor Mancelord has purchased the stake for a reported €57 million.
:: 20/08/2010
New Zealand - Freeview used by 26% of households
Figures published by Freeview New Zealand show that the platform is used by more than a quarter of households as of 30 June 2010.
:: 20/08/2010
New Zealand - 26% Freeview penetration
Growth on the free-to-air Freeview platform continues. A total of 419,945 households accessed Freeview services at the end of June 2010 which represents 26.1% of all households.
:: 19/08/2010
Australia - Seven Network to launch 7mate in September
The commercial broadcaster Seven Network has announced plans to launch a third service on the DTT platform.
:: 18/08/2010
United Kingdom - ASO completed in first city in Scotland
Dundee has become the first city in Scotland to complete digital switchover. On 18 August, all analogue channels from the Angus transmitter group were switched off.
:: 17/08/2010
Spain - Canal+ Dos launches on pay DTT platform
The premium service Canal+ Dos will launch on the pay DTT platform on 23 August. Canal+ Dos is a time-shifted version of the Canal+ service already available on the cable and satellite platforms.
:: 16/08/2010
Russia - Calls for regional services on DTT platform
Minkomsvazi, the Commission for Broadcasting Development, has called for the inclusion of a regional service on the free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 13/08/2010
Romania - ASO delayed until 2015
The government has announced that analogue switch-off will be delayed until 2015. Previously, analogue switch-off had been set for completion in 2012.
:: 11/08/2010
Spain - 200,000 pay-DTT subscribers
The pay-DTT platform has acquired 200,000 subscribers in its first year of services. This represents 4.6% of all pay television viewers.
:: 10/08/2010
Australia - Digital television penetration reaches 74%
The latest Digital Tracker Report showns that digital television penetration has reached 74% of households at the end of June.
:: 09/08/2010
Ireland - Commercial DTT services on hold
The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) has noted that there are no plans to introduce commercial DTT services in Ireland unitl after analogue switch-off is completed.
:: 05/08/2010
Kazakhstan - DVB-T2 trial underway in Karaganda
A DVB-T2 trial is currently underway in the region of Karaganda.
:: 04/08/2010
Ireland - RTE selects MHEG for DTT platform
The public service broadcaster RTE has announced that it will use the MHEG standard for its interactive services on the DTT platform.
:: 03/08/2010
Spain - Broadcasters prepare to launch new services
Following the completion of digital switchover, the government has made available further frequency capacity to the national commercial broadcasters.
:: 03/08/2010
Italy - Mediaset introduces CI Plus on its pay-DTT platform
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset is introducing CI Plus for its pay-DTT platform Mediaset Premium.
:: 03/08/2010
France - CSA opens tender for one pay-DTT service
The CSA is inviting broadcasters to tender for a national pay service on the DTT platform.
:: 30/07/2010
Ireland - Privatisation of RTE NL?
The government may consider privatising the broadcast network operated by the public service broadcaster RTE.
:: 29/07/2010
United Kingdom - Ofcom approves TopUp TV to retail BSkyB sport services on DTT platform
Ofcom has given its approval for Arqiva and the BBC to extend the areas where they are allowed to provide national services from BSkyB.
:: 29/07/2010
Ireland - 800 MHz band to be re-allocated for new services
The communications regulator ComReg has announced that it is considering the process for the allocation of licenses in the 800 MHz and the 900 MHz frequency bands.
:: 29/07/2010
Ireland - RTE NL announces DTT network plans
The broadcast network operator RTE NL has announced that it will build a DTT network with full national coverage as well as with coverage in parts of Northern Ireland.
:: 29/07/2010
Latvia - Regional service launches in Riga
A new regional television programme service has been launched in the region of Riga.
:: 28/07/2010
Romania - SNR to receive DTT license?
The Ministry of Communications and Information (MCSI) is seeking to license the third DTT multiplex to National Radiocommunications Company (SNR) without a tender.
:: 28/07/2010
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Skriaig
Analogue services from the Skriaig transmitter group were switched off on 28 July. This affects 8000 homes in Skye, Harris, North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist and parts of Barra.
:: 27/07/2010
France - Increased coverage for DTT services in Rhône-Alpes
The coverage of DTT services has increased to include new areas in the region of Rhône-Alpes.
:: 22/07/2010
United States - Few subscribers for Media FLO service
Qualcomm has confirmed that it is not satisfied with the subscriber figures for its MediaFLO service. However, these figures have not been published.
:: 21/07/2010
Bulgaria - Hannu Proawarded license to operate free-to-air DTT multiplex
The Communications Regulatory Commission (CRC) has awarded Hannu Pro the licence to operate the public service multiplex.
:: 21/07/2010
Armenia - Regulator invites candidates to tender for 18 DTT licenses
The National Television and Radio Commission (NTRC) has opened a tender for 18 DTT licenses.
:: 21/07/2010
United Kingdom - ASO at Eitshal transmitter group
Analogue switch-off has been completed at the Eitshal transmitter group in Scotland.
:: 21/07/2010
France - CSA invites candidates to tender for pay-DTT service
The CSA is inviting broadcasters to tender for the provision of one pay service on the DTT platform.
:: 20/07/2010
Italy - EC permits Sky Italia to participate in future DTT tenders
The European Commission has authorised Sky Italia to participate in future tenders for DTT licenses.
:: 19/07/2010
Poland - Over €100 million in DTT subsidies to be made available
The government has agreed to provide subsidies to help households purchase DTT receivers in order to ease digital switchover.
:: 19/07/2010
Ukraine - DVB-T2 trial underway in Odessa
The regional broadcast network operator Odessa RTPC launched a trial using the DVB-T2 standard on 24 June 2010.
:: 15/07/2010
Ireland - RTE plans for HD services
The public service broadcaster RTE has provided an overview of its plans for the DTT platform.
:: 13/07/2010
Romania - 7 companies interested in DTT multiplex licenses
The communications regulator ANCOM has revealed the names of the 7 companies interested in tendering for the licenses to operate the first two DTT multiplexes.
:: 13/07/2010
Germany - Tele 5 leaves DTT platform in Munich and Nuremberg
The commercial broadcaster Tele 5 has announced that it will cease its transmission on the DTT platforms in Munich and Nuremberg.
:: 09/07/2010
Poland - DTT platform set to officially launch in September
The launch of the DTT platform is set to take place in September. This is one full year after the launch of the first multiplex on a trial basis.
:: 09/07/2010
Spain - Antena 3 to launch Antena Nitro
Commercial broadcaster Antena 3 has announced that it will launch a new service on the DTT platform by the end of the year.
:: 09/07/2010
Latvia - Government proposes extending Lattelecom's DTT license
Proposed amendments to the Electronic Media Act will extend Lattelecom's license to operate the DTT platform.
:: 08/07/2010
The broadcast network operator Antenna Hungaria and the software development company iPONT have successfully undertaken a live 3DTV test on the DVB-T platform.
:: 05/07/2010
United Kingdom - DTG opens consultation on future of DTT platform
The DTG has opened a consultation on the future of the DTT platform.
:: 04/07/2010
France - NRJ and NextRadioTV seek further DTT capacity
The broadcasters NextRadioTV and NRJ Group have announced their interest in acquiring capacity to launch HD services on the DTT platform.
:: 04/07/2010
Spain - Telecinco to launch new service in September
The commercial broadcaster Telecinco has announced plans to launch a new service on the DTT platform in September.
:: 02/07/2010
Romania - ANCOM prepares to tender operation of 2 DTT Muxes
The regulator ANCOM has begun the process to tender the licenses to operate two DTT multiplexes.
:: 30/06/2010
Portugal - Anacom confirms ASO roadmap
The communications regulator Anacom has confirmed its plans for analogue switch-off.
:: 30/06/2010
United Kingdom - Al Jazeera to launch on Freeview
The television programme service Al Jazeera English will launch on the free-to-air DTT platform on 1 July.
:: 30/06/2010
Australia - ASO completed in Mildura/Sunraysia region
Mildura / Sunraysia has become the first region in Australia to complete digital switchover. At 9.00 hr on 30 June, all analogue television channels were switched off.
:: 29/06/2010
Spain - Goverment agrees to fund cost of migrating broadcasters out of 800 MHz band
The government has agreed to pay the cost of migrating broadcast services out of the 800 MHz frequency band.
:: 28/06/2010
Lithuania - Showtime to launch on DTT platform on 1 July
The pay-DTT platform, Digital Gala, will make the television service Showtime available to its subscribers as of 1 July.
:: 25/06/2010
Australia - Parliament passes new DSO legislative framework
The Parliament approved the Broadcasting Legislation Amendment (Digital Television) Bill 2010 which establishes the legislative framework which addresses a range of digital switchover issues.
:: 24/06/2010
Portugal - Parliament discusses use of DTT capacity
Hearings are currently underway in the Parliament to determine how to use capacity available on the DTT platform.
:: 24/06/2010
United Kingdom - Arqiva to trial 3D on DTT platform
The broadcast network operator Arqiva is planning to deploy a 3D trial on the DTT platform.
:: 24/06/2010
Australia - 694 to 820 MHz set aside for wireless broadband services
The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, announced that 126 MHz would be available as part of the digital dividend.
:: 22/06/2010
Germany - New services on DTT platform in Rhein-Main region
The media authority for the state of Hesse, LPR, has awarded a DTT broadcast license to the shopping service QVC.
:: 22/06/2010
Russia - DVB-T to launch in Kaliningrad by end of year
DVB-T services will launch in the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad by the end of the year.
:: 18/06/2010
Sweden - HD/DTTlicenses allocated
The Radio och TV Verket (RTVV) has allocated 12 licenses for the DTT platform. Of these, 7 licenses are for HDTV services.
:: 16/06/2010
United Kingdom - Ofcom approves BSkyB sports services on DTT platform
Ofcom has approved the use of extra capacity on Multiplex B and Multiplex D for the provision of services from BSkyB.
:: 16/06/2010
United Kingdom - Digital UK likely to be under-budget
The cost of digital switchover is likely to be lower than expected in the United Kingdom.
:: 16/06/2010
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Caithness and North Sutherland
All analogue channels from the Rumster Forest transmitter group were switched off on 16 June. This affects households in Caithness and North Sutherland.
:: 15/06/2010
Italy - ECJ rejects Mediaset's appeal against illegal state-aid
The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has rejected an appeal from the commercial broadcaster Mediaset that it must return illegal state aid.
:: 14/06/2010
United Kingdom - Ofcom permits Huffman data restrictions
Ofcom has given the BBC approval to vary the terms of its licence for Multiplex B. This multiplex is used to provide HD services.
:: 14/06/2010
France - CSA opens consultation on SMAD
The CSA has opened a consultation on on-demand broadcast services known in French as services de médias audiovisuels à la demande (SMAD).
:: 13/06/2010
Philippines - NTC recommends adoption of ISDB-T
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has recommended the adoption of the ISDB-T standard for DTT services.
:: 10/06/2010
A DVB-T2 trial has begun in Copenhagen. It is operated by Open Channel with equipment provided by ProTelevision Technologies and DekTec.
:: 08/06/2010
Spain - Population coverage of TVE HD increased
The public service broadcaster TVE has increased the coverage of its HD service on the DTT platform.
:: 08/06/2010
France - ASO completed in Brittany
The region of Brittany along the north western coast of France has completed analogue switch-off.
:: 08/06/2010
France - Mobmux to operate mobile TV multiplex
The broadcasters with licenses to offer mobile broadcast services have selected Mobmux as their platform operator.
:: 07/06/2010
France - France Ô to be available on national DTT platform
The television programme service France Ô will be made available on the national DTT platform by the end of June.
:: 04/06/2010
Slovenia - Kanal A to switch off on 30 June in Slovenj Gradec
The commercial broadcaster Kanal A will switch-off its analogue services in the area of Slovenj Gradec on 30 June. Viewers in this area will only be able to access Kanal A through the DTT platform.
:: 04/06/2010
Czech Republic - UPC launches DTT trial in Prague
According to Broadband TV News, UPC Czech has started a DTT trial in Prague. Full city coverage is planned by next month.
:: 03/06/2010
France - 1.4 million pay-DTT households expected by 2012
According to the consultancy firm NPA Conseil, pay-DTT services can be expected to reach between 1.35 and 1.45 million subscribers by 2012.
:: 02/06/2010
Spain - RTVE renounces launch of Canal Cultural on DTT platform
The public service broadcaster RTVE has announced that it will no longer launch its cultural service, Canal Cultural, on the DTT platform.
:: 31/05/2010
Latvia - TV3 officially joins DTT platform
The commercial broadcaster TV3 has announced that it will provide its services on the DTT platform.
:: 28/05/2010
Latvia - Vidusdaugava Television joins DTT platform
The regional broadcaster Vidusdaugava Television has joined the DTT platform.
:: 28/05/2010
Italy - Europa 7 HD to launch DVB-T2 services in June
The commercial broadcaster Europa 7 has announced its plans to launch HD services on the DTT platform.
:: 26/05/2010
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Orkney Islands
Analogue switch-off has been completed in the Orkney Islands. This affects approximately 10,000 homes.
:: 26/05/2010
Norway - NRK to provide HD services on DTT platform
The public service broadcaster NRK has announced plans to provide its television programme services on the DTT platform in high-definition (HD) quality.
:: 26/05/2010
Poland - Commercial broadcasters move to MUX 2
The broadcast regulator KRRiT has agreed to allow the commercial broadcasters on the analogue terrestrial platform to provide their DVB-T services from Multiplex 2.
:: 25/05/2010
Italy - Tivuitalia become DTT multiplex operator
Tivuitalia has become the most recent DTT multiplex operator in Italy. The company is owned by the broadcast equipment manufacturer Screen Service Broadcasting Technologies (SSBT).
:: 25/05/2010
The ITU has published its Guidelines for the transition from analogue to digital broadcasting .
:: 23/05/2010
Spain - Royal Decree approved mandating HD DVB-T for receivers sized 21
The Council of Ministers has approved a Royal Decree regarding HD services on the DTT platform.
:: 21/05/2010
Germany - Digital dividend auction raises €4.3 billion
The auction of the frequencies in the so-called 'digital dividend' have been completed in Germany on 20 May.
:: 21/05/2010
Poland - TVN Warszawa temporarily available on DTT platform in Warsaw
The commercial broadcaster TVN and the broadcast network operator Emitel have made available the television service TVN Warszawa on the DVB-T platform.
:: 20/05/2010
Estonia - Tender opened for two licenses on DTT platform
The Ministry of Culture has announced that it is inviting broadcasters to tender for two nationwide licenses on the DTT platform.
:: 20/05/2010
United Kingdom - Pace makes available first Freeview+ HD receiver
The consumer electronics manufacturer Pace has announced the availability of the first Freeview+ HD PVR in the United Kingdom at a price of £299 (€345).
:: 20/05/2010
Czech Republic - DVB-T2 trial underway in Prague
The broadcast network operator České Radiokomunikace (CR) has undertaken a short trial using the DVB-T2 standard.
:: 20/05/2010
Russia - Regional broadcasters want to join DTT platform
Regional broadcasters have expressed an interest in joining the DTT platform. They would like capacity to be made available on the second or third multiplex.
:: 19/05/2010
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Shetland
Analogue switch-off has been completed in the Shetland islands in the northern part of Scotland. A total of 9000 households have been affected by the switch-off.
:: 18/05/2010
Hungary - Launch of MinDig TV Extra
The DTT service provider Antenna Hungaria has announced the launch of MinDig TV Extra, a pay service on the DTT platform.
:: 18/05/2010
France - ASO completed in Pays de la Loire
Analogue switch-off has been completed in the region of the Pays de la Loire in the northwestern part of France.
:: 18/05/2010
Hungary - Launch of new pay-DTT platform
The pay-DTT operator Antenna Hungaria will launch a new pay-DTT service known as MinDig TV Extra on 25 May.
:: 17/05/2010
Poland - First live 3D transmission on DTT platform
The first 3D trial on the DVB-T platform took place in Warsaw on 15 May. A live 3D transmission took place from the Palace of Culture and Science.
:: 16/05/2010
Russia - DTT services to officially launch in Moscow this year
According to the Communications Minister Igor Shchegolev, digital switchover is underway in Russia.
:: 16/05/2010
Spain - New services announced for DTT platform
MTV Spain has announced that it will makes its services available free-to-air on the DTT platform. The service is expected to launch next month.
:: 15/05/2010
Ireland - Easy TV declines commercial DTT license
Plans to launch a commercial DTT platform have been set-back following the decision by Easy TV to decline the DTT license.
:: 14/05/2010
Czech Republic - Telefonica O2 may be required to relinquish operation of MUX 4
The president Vaclav Klaus has signed an amendment to the current Act on Electronic Communications.
:: 13/05/2010
Hungary - ORTT allocates funding to help with DSO
The Hungarian Radio and Television Board (ORTT) will allocate money to help regional and local public and non-profit broadcasters with their transition to digital television.
:: 12/05/2010
Spain - Government expresses doubts about mobile TV services
A representative of the Ministry of Industry, Bernardo Lorenzo, has suggested that the frequencies currently reserved for mobile television services could be allocated for other uses.
:: 11/05/2010
Italy - Mediaset announces further growth for pay-DTT service
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset has published its earning results for the period from January to March 2010. It addition, it has announced the launch of a new DTT service.
:: 11/05/2010
Denmark - Report on DSO process available for free download
The Danish DTT Information Office now has published an official report on the process and results of digital switchover in Denmark.
:: 10/05/2010
France - Two further multiplexes to launch after ASO
The CSA has issued its decision on how capacity will be used on the DTT platform based on the responses it received to its consultation on the topic.
:: 07/05/2010
United States - Mobile broadcast television trial begins
A trial of mobile broadcast service has been launched in Washington, DC by the Open Mobile Video Coalition (OMVC). The trial aims to build public awareness about mobile television.
:: 07/05/2010
Italy - New services from Mediaset and Telecom Italia
Two leading commercial broadcasters, Mediaset and Telecom Italia, have announced plan to launch new services on the DTT platform.
:: 07/05/2010
Italy - ASO moved forward to 2011?
The Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Paolo Romani, has announced that considerations are underway to bring forward the date for the completion of analogue switch-off.
:: 06/05/2010
South Korea - 3D trial to begin on 19 May
The first transmission of 3D services on the terrestrial platform will take place on 19 May.
:: 06/05/2010
Russia - Almaz Antey Thomson Broadcast to provide DTT STBs
DTT receivers will be manufactured by Almaz Antey Thomson Broadcast (AATB), a joint venture between Thomson Broadcast (49% stake) and the Russian company Almaz-Antey (51% stake).
:: 06/05/2010
EC issues harmonised technical rules for 790-862 MHz
The European Commission (EC) has adopted a decision regarding the harmonised use of the frequencies from 790-862 MHz. The decision sets out the technical rules for the use of these frequencies by Member-States.
:: 05/05/2010
The latest version of MHEG has been published by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) as a standard.
:: 05/05/2010
Spain - Strong growth for DTT platform
According to a study published by Barlovento Comunicación, viewers on the DTT platform increased by 10.6 percentage points following the completion of analogue switch-off in early April.
:: 05/05/2010
According to the DTT platform operator Antenna Hungaria, 6% of television households access DTT services. In addition, 10% of terrestrial households have converted from analogue to digital.
:: 04/05/2010
Italy - Mediaset to launch La5 on 12 May
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset has announced that it will launch a new free-to-air service on the DTT platform on 12 May.
:: 02/05/2010
Ireland - Commercial DTT license awarded to EasyTV
The future of DTT remains unclear in Ireland following the decision by the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) to withdraw the commercial DTT license from the OneVision consortium.
:: 30/04/2010
Estonia - New services on pay-DTT platform
The pay-DTT service, ZUUMtv, will add two new services on the DTT platform during the month of June.
:: 30/04/2010
Sweden - Strong growth for Teracom's pay-DTT operations
The broadcast network operator Teracom announced its first quarter results for 2010 with a revenue of SEK 920 million (€95 million). This is an increase of 25% compared with Q1 2009.
:: 29/04/2010
Spain - Interference issues during Barça-Inter Milan game
The government of Madrid has expressed its anger following the interferences to the DTT signal which disrupted the Barça-Inter Milan football match on the DTT platform.
:: 29/04/2010
Poland - No agreement yet between Info-TV-FM and mobile telecom operators
The DVB-H license holder, Info-TV-FM, is having difficulties reaching agreement with mobile telecom operators necessary for the launch of mobile television services.
:: 28/04/2010
Spain - Prisa to join TDT Premium platform
The media group Prisa has agreed to join the pay-DTT platform TDT Premium operated by the broadcast network operator Abertis.
:: 28/04/2010
Poland - TVP and Emitel sign agreement for transmission of MUX 3
The public service broadcaster TVP and the broadcast network operator Emitel have signed an agreement for the transmission of DTT services.
:: 28/04/2010
Spain - TVE begins roll-out of TVE HD on DTT platform
The public service broadcaster RTVE has begun to provide HD services using frequencies previously used by its analogue service La 2.
:: 28/04/2010
Italy - EC clears Sky Italia for DTT service launch
According to Broadband TV News, it is anticipated that the European Commission (EC) will give Sky Italia the permission to launch services on the DTT platform.
:: 27/04/2010
Sweden - 40 broadcasters apply for new DTT licenses
The Swedish Radio and Television Authority (RTVV) received 40 applicants for broadcast capacity on the DTT platform.
:: 27/04/2010
Latvia - Lattelecom calls for 5 year extension to DTT license
The DTT platform is now available to 99% of the population. Viewers can currently access 5 free-to-air and 28 pay-DTT services.
:: 27/04/2010
Netherlands - Nearly one million pay-DTT subscribers
The pay-DTT service operator KPN has published its results for the first quarter 2010.
:: 27/04/2010
France - Sony includes CI Plus in TV sets sized 26" and larger
Sony has announced that all of its television sets sized 26 inches and larger will be equipped with CI Plus and will conform with the requirements of the Canal Ready logo.
:: 27/04/2010
Australia - Nine to provide NRL's State of Origin series in 3DTV on DTT platform
The commercial broadcaster Nine Network has announced that it will broadcast 3D programming on the DTT platform in Sydney.
:: 26/04/2010
Australia - ASO awareness over 90% country-wide
The Digital Switchover Taskforce has published its Digital Tracker for the first quarter of 2010 (January to March). According to the Digital Tracker, 68% of households now converted to digital.
:: 23/04/2010
Germany - Four broadcasters awarded DTT licenses in Hamburg
The media authorities for Hamburg / Schleswig-Holstein (MA HSH) have awarded four DTT licenses to commercial broadcasters in Hamburg.
:: 22/04/2010
France - Mobile TV services set to launch in 2011
The broadcast network operator TDF and the mobile telecom operator Omer Telecom/Virgin Mobile have reached an agreement for the launch of mobile television services.
:: 22/04/2010
New Zealand - Continued growth for Freeview platform
Growth of the DTT platform remains strong with a penetration of 11.5% for the first quarter of 2010.
:: 20/04/2010
Bosnia - CRA reserves Multiplex A for PSBs
The Communications Regulatory Agency (CRA) has issued the conditions for the use of Multiplex A on the DTT platform.
:: 20/04/2010
Broadcast network operators set up new association
Broadcast network operators have set up a new group, Broadcast Networks Europe, to help lobby their interest vis-à-vis EU policy makers and stakeholders.
:: 20/04/2010
Portugal - Anacom publishes consultation on ASO plan
The communications regulator Anacom has opened a consultation on its proposed plan for analogue switch-off. It is seeking feedback until 18 May 2010.
:: 20/04/2010
Russia - Proposed legislation to guarantee free-to-air services on MUX 1
The Communications Ministry has submitted a bill to the Duma in preparation for digital switchover.
:: 20/04/2010
Serbia And Montenegro - EU provides funding to support DSO
The European Union (EU) has agreed to provide funding to help with digital switchover in Serbia and Montenegro.
:: 19/04/2010
Lithuania - Estimated 50,000 pay-DTT subscribers
According to the latest financial results published by the telcom operator TEO, the number of subscribers to its television services grew by nearly 37% in the past year.
:: 19/04/2010
Spain - Government declares ASO a success
According to the Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce, analogue switch-off has been a success in Spain.
:: 17/04/2010
Ireland - Negotiations between RTE and One Vision reach an impasse
The negotiations between the pay-DTT license holder One Vision and the broadcast network operator RTE NL appear to have reached an impasse.
:: 16/04/2010
South Africa - ICASA invites candidates to tender for mobile TV license
The communications regulator ICASA is inviting candidates to tender for broadcast license for the provision of mobile television services.
:: 16/04/2010
Spain - DTT penetration reaches 89.3% at the end of March
According to the latest information published by Impulsa TDT, 89.3% of households accessed DTT services at the end of March. This is an increase of 5.7% compared with the previous month.
:: 16/04/2010
New Zealand - C42 to launch on DTT platform
Freeview New Zealand has announced that it will offer viewers the alternative digital music service C42. This new service will become available on 1 May.
:: 15/04/2010
Italy - RAI to make World Cup available in HD
The public service broadcaster RAI is planning to make its coverage of the FIFA 2010 World Cup available in HD on the DTT platform.
:: 14/04/2010
Spain - AXN joins pay-DTT platform
The broadcast service AXN will join the pay-DTT platform on 1 May. It will replace the existing service from Sony Entertainment Television (SET)/ Veo.
:: 13/04/2010
Slovakia - Lower-than-expected growth of DTT platform
According to the DTT platform operator Towercom, the take-up of DTT services is slower than initially expected.
:: 12/04/2010
Austria - ORS launches DVB-T2 trial
The broadcast network operator ORS has announced that it will trial HD services on the DTT platform using the DVB-T2 standard. The trial will commence on 12 April and last for one year.
:: 09/04/2010
Spain - CNC opens enquiry into allegations of uncompetitive practices by Abertis
The Comision Nacional de la Competencia (CNC) has decided to open an investigation regarding the possible abuse of dominant position by the broadcast network operator Abertis Telecom.
:: 09/04/2010
France - CSA issues mobile TV authorisations
The CSA has issued the necessary authorisations for the 16 broadcasters allocated licenses to launch mobile television services.
:: 08/04/2010
Finland - DVB-T2 license awarded to Anvia TV
The Finnish government has awarded two DTT multiplex licenses to the communications company Anvia.
:: 07/04/2010
United Kingdom - ITV HD to offer regional content
The broadcaster ITV has been issued licenses to broadcast regional versions of its recently launched HD service.
:: 07/04/2010
Latvia - ASO completed in Riga
On 1 April, the analogue channels of LNT and LTV were switched off in the capital city of Riga. Switch-off in the remainder of the country is set for 1 June.
:: 07/04/2010
Bulgaria - Mancelord acquires 50% stake in broadcast network operator NURTS
The telecom operator VIVACOM has agreed to sell a 50% stake in its broadcast network subsidiary, NURTS, to the international financial investor Mancelord Limited.
:: 07/04/2010
United Kingdom - 10.1 million DTT-only households
Ofcom has published the its Digital Television Update for the fourth quarter of 2009. According to the report, 91.4% of households access digital television services on their primary television sets.
:: 07/04/2010
United Kingdom - ASO completed in the West TV region
Digital switchover has been completed in the West TV region, serving Bristol, parts of Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire.
:: 06/04/2010
Spain - HD/DTT trial in Madrid and Barcelona
Trial HD services are underway in the cities of Barcelona and Madrid. The trial is jointly conducted by the broadcast network operator Abertis and the Ministry of Industry.
:: 02/04/2010
Kyrgyzstan - Nearly 20,000 DTT receivers distributed for free
Following the launch of DTT services in the Batken region, the government has made available receivers for viewers.
:: 02/04/2010
Poland - EmiTel to operate TVP's DTT multiplex
Public service broadcaster TVP has announced that it has awarded EmiTel with the contract to serve as the techical operator of its DTT multiplex.
:: 31/03/2010
France - 'Canal+ Ready' modules set for launch
Commercial broadcaster Canal+ has announced that it will make modules available this April to allow viewers to access pay-DTT services from CI Plus enabled television sets.
:: 31/03/2010
United Kingdom - Ofcom allows introduction of Sky's Picnic service on DTT platform
Ofcom has issued a statement that will allow the broadcaster Sky and the broadcast network operator Arqiva to launch pay services on the DTT platform.
:: 31/03/2010
United Kingdom - Wales completes ASO
Wales has become the first nation in the United Kingdom to complete digital switchover.
:: 30/03/2010
Sweden - RTVV opens tender for broadcast services on DTT platform
The Swedish Radio and Television Authority (RTVV) is inviting broadcasters to tender for licenses on the DTT platform. Licenses are available for national, regional and local services.
:: 30/03/2010
Ireland - ComReg publishes proposal for mobile TV license
The communications regulator ComReg has issued an Information Notice on the future award of a mobile television license.
:: 30/03/2010
Spain - ASO in Barcelona, Madrid and Seville
Over 16.5 million viewers in Spain will completed analogue switch-off on 30 March.
:: 29/03/2010
Italy - New services available in Bolzano Province
The provincial government for southern Tyrol in Italy (Bolzano Province) has announced that new services will be available on the DTT platform.
:: 27/03/2010
Spain - Royal Decree approves use of the digital dividend
The government has approved a Royal Decree regarding the use of frequencies in the UHF band following the completion of analogue switch-off.
:: 26/03/2010
United Kingdom - D-Book version 6.2 now available
The DTG has announced that the D-Book version 6.2 is now available to its members. The new version of the D-Book has been approved by the DTG Council for publication.
:: 25/03/2010
Finland - 7 HD/DTT licenses awarded
The government has awarded 7 high-definition broadcast licenses on the DTT platform. These new services will be available using the DVB-T2 standard.
:: 25/03/2010
Portugal - Debate whether PT should be reimbursed pay-DTT license deposit
While Portugal Telecom (PT) has officially returned its license for the operation of the pay-DTT platform to national regulators Anacom and ERC, debate has arisen whether or not it should be reimbursed its €2.5 million license deposit.
:: 25/03/2010
Italy - Mediaset to offer more services on DTT platform
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset has announced plans to launch three new television programme services on the DTT platform.
:: 23/03/2010
Switzerland - Consultation opened on commercial services for DTT platform
The communications regulator BAKOM has opened a consultation to better understand commercial requirements on the DTT platform.
:: 23/03/2010
Italy - Mediaset Premium revenues increase by 38.9%
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset has issued its earning results for 2009. Its pay-DTT service, Mediaset Premium continues to generate high revenues for the broadcaster.
:: 23/03/2010
Switzerland - DVB-H service to end
The DVB-H service operator Swisscom has announce that it will end its DVB-H services.
:: 22/03/2010
Slovakia - DTT coverage to reach nearly 92% by end of month
By the end of March, DTT coverage will reach 91.5% of the population. Coverage roll-out will continue and is expected to reach 93.9% of the population by the end of June.
:: 19/03/2010
France - CSA issues warning against non-conformant DTT receivers
According to the consumer association UFC-Que Choisir, between 300,000 and 500,000 DTT receivers could become obsolete when frequency changes are made to the DTT network.
:: 19/03/2010
France - DTT penetration reaches 48.3%
According to the latest figures published by the CSA, 78.4% of households (20.9 million) access digital television services on at least one television set.
:: 18/03/2010
Spain - Sogecable interested in offering pay-DTT services
The pay television operator Sogecable is planning to launch pay-DTT services in September as a complement to its existing pay satellite service Digital+.
:: 18/03/2010
France - CSA calls for broadcasters to resume services in Alsace
According to the CSA, certain areas in Alsace are currently not receiving DTT services from multiplex R2 and R3.
:: 18/03/2010
France - Consolidation on DTT platform
The media group Bolloré Media will acquire the DTT broadcast service Virgin 17 from the Lagardère media group for €70 million.
:: 18/03/2010
Russia - DVB-H launch in Moscow expected in April
A DVB-H trial currently conducted by VimpelCom subsidiary Dominanta is expected to launch official commercial services in April. The services will be available in Moscow.
:: 16/03/2010
France - Favourable audience share for services on DTT platform
The new broadcast services launched on the DTT platform have proven to be successful with viewers. These new broadcsters have gathered a total of 17.8% audience viewing share.
:: 16/03/2010
United States - New broadband plan could require broadcasters to return frequencies
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued its 10-year plan to ensure high-speed broadband access to all US households. The plan is expected to cost approximately $20 billion.
:: 15/03/2010
Spain - Navarra and Baleares first two regions to complete ASO
The two autonomous regions of Navarra and Baleares have completed analogue switch-off. In addition, analogue switch-off has been completed in the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla.
:: 15/03/2010
United Kingdom - Five lose HD/DTT multiplex capacity
Ofcom has announced that it will no longer reserve capacity on Multiplex B for the provision of HD service from the broadcaster Channel Five.
:: 14/03/2010
Spain - La Sexta announces future DTT plans
The commercial broadcaster La Sexta has announced its plans for the use of its DTT multiplex to be made available following the completion of analogue switch-off on 30 March.
:: 12/03/2010
United Kingdom - ITV1 HD set for 2 April launch on Freeview
The broadcaster ITV has announced its plans to launch its HD service, ITV1 HD, on 2 April. The service will be available on the cable, satellite and DTT platforms.
:: 11/03/2010
Bulgaria - Regulator opens tender for DTT multiplex operation
The Commission for Communication Regulation (CCR) is inviting candidates to tender for the operation of the DTT multiplex reserved for public television services.
:: 10/03/2010
United Kingdom - ASO completed in central/western Wales
Digital switchover was completed in west and central Wales on 10 March. The switch-off affects 26,000 viewers in the area.
:: 10/03/2010
Spain - 3D/DTT trial in Seville
The first known transmission of 3D services on the DTT platform took place in Seville on 9 March during the Pro TDT Congresso hosted by the consumer electronics association Asimelec.
:: 10/03/2010
Spain - 1.6 million DTT receiver sold during January 2010
According to the latest information published by Impulsa TDT, DTT penetration has reached 83.6% in Spain. In addition, the DTT platform has a 59.7% television viewing audience share.
:: 09/03/2010
Slovenia - Pink SI to join DTT platform
The operator of the DTT multiplex B, Norkring, has signed an agreement with the broadcaser Pink SI for the provision of services on its network.
:: 09/03/2010
France - ASO completed in Lower Normandy
Analogue switch-off has been successfully completed in the region of Lower Normandy. At midnight on 8 March, all analogue television transmissions were ended.
:: 09/03/2010
Spain - Estimated 2 million receivers to be sold in next 2 weeks
The impending completion of analogue switch-off on 30 March is expected to drive sales of DTT receivers.
:: 05/03/2010
United Kingdom - £6 million HD/DTT ad campaign
The free-to-air DTT platform, Freeview, will spend £6 million (€6.6 million) between Easter and the start of the World Cup in June to advertise its HD services using DVB-T2.
:: 04/03/2010
EC launches consultation on spectrum strategy
The European Commission has opened a consultation on the strategic priorities for an EU radio spectrum policy programme for 2011-2015.
:: 04/03/2010
Spain - Trial HD service in Seville
The public service broadcaster in Andalucia, RTVA, has begun a trial HD service on the DTT platform. The trial began on 26 February.
:: 04/03/2010
Germany - New DTT license to be allocated in Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein
The tender to offer radio services on the DTT platform in the Länder of Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein has been cancelled. Because of low interest in the license, the media regulator has decided not to proceed with the license allocation.
:: 03/03/2010
Poland - Tender closed for MUX technical operator license
The public service broadcaster has officially closed its tender process for the technical operation of Multiplex 3 on the DTT platform.
:: 03/03/2010
Ireland - Teracom to test Saorview receivers
The Swedish broadcast network operator Teracom has been selected to test DTT receivers for the Irish market. This follows an agreement signed between Teracom and the public service broadcaster RTE.
:: 02/03/2010
Belgium - ASO completed on 1 March
The French-speaking community of Belgium completed analogue switch-off on 1 March 2010.
:: 26/02/2010
Hong Kong - OFTA to auction mobile TV license
The Office of the Telecommunications Authority (OFTA) has published information about its planned auction for radio spectrum in the 678 - 686 MHz band.
:: 26/02/2010
Australia - 61% of households converted to DTV
The government has published its Digital Tracker for the period October to December 2009. According to the published research, 61% of households have converted to digital television on their main television set.
:: 26/02/2010
Italy - 23 million residents to complete ASO in 2010
The Analogue Switch-off Taskforce for 2010 has been officially launched. It will be responsible for leading the process in those areas switching off services in 2010.
:: 26/02/2010
Italy - Nearly 29 million DTT receivers sold
According to the latest figures published in the DGTVi newsletter. 2 out of 3 households access digital television services.
:: 25/02/2010
Taiwan - NCC invests in DTT platform
According to Rapid TV News, plans are underway to expand the DTT platform. The National Communications Commission (NCC) plans to make available five DVB-T licenses and one mobile TV license.
:: 24/02/2010
United States - "White Space" trial in Wilmington, S.C.
The city of Wilmington in South Carolina is currently testing a municipal WiFi network using the so-called white spaces between DTT frequency channels. The trial has been underway for the past month.
:: 24/02/2010
Spain - Irdeto CAS integrated into the pay-DTT platform
Irdeto's conditional access system (CAS) has been validated for use on TDT Premium, the pay-DTT platform operated by the broadcast network operator Abertis.
:: 24/02/2010
Taiwan - Government considers STB subsidy
The National Communications Commission (NCC) is planning to provide subsidies to be used towards the purchase of DTT set-top boxes.
:: 23/02/2010
Spain - Some local broadcasters having difficulties fulfilling license conditions
The regional broadcast regulator for Catalunya, el Consejo Audiovisual de Cataluña (CAC), is calling on local broadcasters to return their DTT licenses if they are not able to transmit their DTT services.
:: 23/02/2010
Slovakia - New service for the DTT platform
The Council for broadcasting has issued a nationwide DTT license to the television programme service Mööbel TV. The service is operated by i-COMMERCE.
:: 22/02/2010
United Kingdom - S&T technology used in Humax's DVB-T2 set-top box
Strategy & Technology (S&T) has announced that its RedKey™ 2 MHEG technology is used in Humax's DVB-T2 Freeview HD set-top box.
:: 21/02/2010
Spain - Preparing for HD/DTT services
The government is currently in the process of preparing a Royal Decree to allow for the introduction of HD services on the DTT platform.
:: 19/02/2010
United Kingdom - Ofcom issues study on LTE interference to DTT receivers
Ofcom has published a measurement study on LTE interference with DVB-T receivers. The study was conducted by ERA Technology on behalf of Ofcom.
:: 19/02/2010
Estimating the cost of DSO in Russia and the Ukraine
The European Audiovisual Observatory has published a new report on the preparatory work for digital switchover in Russia and the Ukraine.
:: 18/02/2010
Belgium - Telenet to provide DVB-T services
Norkring has announced that its Belgium subsidiary will lease DTT capacity to the cable/telecom operator Telenet. Norkring operates the broadcast network in the Flemish-speaking part of Belgium.
:: 17/02/2010
Spain - Post-ASO frequency planning underway
The Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce is currently preparing the official decree assigning frequencies to broadcasters following the completion of digital switchover.
:: 17/02/2010
South Africa - ASO delayed until 2013
The communications regulator ICASA has announced that analogue switch-off will be delayed until 2013. Previously, analogue switch-off had been set to be completed by 1 April 2012.
:: 17/02/2010
France - HD/DTT coverage roll-out announced
The CSA has announced the calendar for the roll-out of HD services on the DTT platform. Currently, one multiplex, R5, provides three HD services (TF1 HD, France 2 HD, and M6 HD).
:: 15/02/2010
Uruguay - EU support DVB-T in Uruguay
The European Union (EU) has signed a cooperation agreement with the Ministry of Industry in Uruguay to help with the roll-out of DVB-T services.
:: 15/02/2010
Ukraine - Launch of DTT services delayed
DTT services, currently available in Kiev and Odessa, were set to launch in nine further cities on 4 February.
:: 15/02/2010
United Kingdom - First DVB-T2 receiver available
The first DVB-T2 set-top box is now available in the United Kingdom. On 13 February, Humax launched its HD-FOX T2 receiver for £179.
:: 12/02/2010
United Kingdom - Strong interest in Freeview HD
The free-to-air DTT consortium Freeview has published research showing that 17% of Sky+ HD homes and 12% of Virgin Media homes could switch to the DTT platform in the next six months.
:: 11/02/2010
Croatia - Trial DTT license issued to Kapital Net
The Council for Electronic Media (CEM) has granted a trial DTT license to the commercial broadcaster Kapital Net. Trial services must begin by 28 February and will last until the end of the year.
:: 11/02/2010
Russia - DTT trial in Moscow and St. Petersburg
A DTT trial is underway in Moscow to coincide with the opening of the Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver.
:: 11/02/2010
According to the latest data published by Impulsa TDT, 1.36 million DTT receivers were sold in Spain during the month of December 2009.
:: 11/02/2010
Spain - ASO confirmed for 30 March 2010
The government has confirmed that analogue switch-off will be completed in Spain on 30 March. This is several days earlier than the original date of 3 April.
:: 11/02/2010
New Zealand - Strong growth for Freeview platform
The free-to-air DTT platform, Freeview, recorded its highest viewer growth in the last quarter of 2009 with the addition of 42,354 new DTT households.
:: 10/02/2010
Latvia - Lattelecom adds two new services to pay-DTT package
The pay-DTT service provider Lattelecom has added two new services to its offering. It has increased its programme choice with the addition of TV6 and 3+.
:: 10/02/2010
Lithuania - Over 46,000 pay-DTT subscribers
The pay-DTT operator TEO has announced its financial results for the end of 2009.
:: 08/02/2010
United Kingdom - Capacity for two new services on DTT platform
The communications regulator OFCOM has given its approval for the BBC and Arqiva to jointly make available capacity for the provision of two national DTT services.
:: 08/02/2010
Belgium - Walloon to complete ASO on 1 March
According to Broadband TV News, the French-speaking community in Belgium will complete analogue switch-off on 1 March. Only two channels from the public service broadcaster RTBF are available on the analogue terrestrial platform.
:: 05/02/2010
Spain - Astra appeals to CMT against Abertis
The satellite operator Astra has requested that the telecom regulator Comisión del Mercado de las Telecomunicaciones (CMT) arbitrate in its grievances against the broadcast network operator Abertis.
:: 05/02/2010
Hungary - DTT ERP levels increase in region of Budapest
The DTT service provider Antenna Hungaria has received the necessary licenses to increase the ERP for Multiplexes A and C from the Széchenyi-hegy transmission site.
:: 05/02/2010
United Kingdom - HD information available on Digital UK postcode checker
As part of the Digital UK's online postcode checker, viewers can now see their choices for receiving HDTV services.
:: 05/02/2010
Lithuania - EC calls on regulator to open broadcast transmission market
The European Commission (EC) is calling on the telecoms regulator R yšių reguliavimo tarnyba (RRT) to make changes to the current broadcasting licensing regime.
:: 04/02/2010
Latvia - Lattelecom launches pre-paid DTT service
The pay-DTT service operator, Lattelecom, has launched a pre-pay DTT service known as priekšapmaksas televīziju. This new service allows viewers to watch pay-DTT content using a pre-paid DTT card.
:: 03/02/2010
Croatia - No candidates for license to operate Multiplex D
The communications regulator HAKOM has announced that it did not receive any tenders for the license to operate regional DTT services.
:: 03/02/2010
Russia - 13 services to be available on DTT platorm
Digital switchover is set for completion in 2015. Viewers will be able to access up to 13 DTT services.
:: 02/02/2010
Spain - RTVE plans to launch HD/DTT services
Public service broadcaster RTVE plans to launch its HD service TVE HD on its second DTT multiplex.
:: 02/02/2010
Slovenia - Multiplex B to launch services on 1 September
Norkring has announced its plans to make 6 commercial DTT services available on the multiplex it is licensed to operate (Multiplex B).
:: 02/02/2010
Hungary - 67% increase in DTT receiver sales in Dec 2010
DTT services are slowly taking off in Hungary. The number of DTT receivers sold during the month of December 2009 was 67% higher than those sold in November 2009.
:: 02/02/2010
Ukraine - DTT roll-out continues
DTT coverage will expand in the Ukraine followng the activation of nine new transmission sites. The number of viewers able to access DTT services will nearly double from 6 million to 11 million.
:: 02/02/2010
Philippines - ASO to be delayed
The Philippines is expected to delay its date for the completion of analogue switch-off. Initially, digital switchover was set to be completed by 2015.
:: 01/02/2010
Portugal - PT to lose commercial DTT license
The communications regulator Anacom has prepared a draft decision to withdraw Portugal Telecom's (PT) commercial DTT license.
:: 01/02/2010
Spain - ASO to be moved forward by a few days?
The government is currently considering plans to bring forward the analogue switch-off date by a few days. Analogue switch-off is set to be completed by 3 April 2010 but could instead be completed by 30 March.
:: 01/02/2010
Ireland - DTV agreement signed between Ireland and the UK
The governments of Ireland and the United Kingdom has signed a Memorandum of Understanding on digital television.
:: 01/02/2010
France - CSA sets up DTT coverage postcheck
The broadcast regulator CSA has launched an online application allowing viewers to know whether or not they can receive DTT services.
:: 01/02/2010
Greece - NEC to supply Digea DVB-T network
The commercial DTT operator, Digea (PSIFIAKOS PAROCHOS S.A.), has selected NEC Corporation to supply it with DVB-T transmitters.
:: 31/01/2010
Colombia - DTT services launch in Bogota
DVB-T services have officially launched in Columbia. Coverage is now available in the capital city Bogota.
:: 31/01/2010
According to the Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Ambika Soni, digital switchover is likely to be completed in 2017.
:: 29/01/2010
Sweden - RTVV opens consultation on DVB-T2
The Swedish Radio and TV Authority (RTVV) has opened a consultation on HDTV on the DTT platform which the regulator believes should be made available.
:: 29/01/2010
Lithuania - TEO critical of plans to reduce analogue transmission costs
Plans by the broadcast network operator Lithuanian Radio and TV Center (LRTC) to reduce the cost of analogue transmissions by 10% has been critised by the DTT platform operator TEO.
:: 29/01/2010
France - ASO in Alsace on 1-2 February
Analogue switch-off is set to take place in the Alsace region on 1-2 February. All analogue channels will be switched off in the night of 1 February.
:: 28/01/2010
Spain - Number of collective antenna to be converted remains high
The National Federation of Telecommunication Installers (FENITEL) are warning that it may not be possible to convert all collective antennas to digital in time for the completion of analogue switch-off on 3 April.
:: 27/01/2010
Hungary - Telecom operators not interested in DVB-H
Antenna Hungaria has admitted that it is unlikely to launch DVB-H services in the near future given the lack of interest from mobile telecom operators.
:: 27/01/2010
Netherlands - 880,000 pay-DTT subscribers
According to the latest figures published by KPN, it had 970,000 television subscribers at the end of 2009. This includes its subscribers to both its IPTV and DTT service.
:: 26/01/2010
France - Sales of TV sets exceeds expectations
The number of television sets sold in 2009 exceeded expectations. A total of 7.3 million television sets were sold depite previsions for the sale of 6 million.
:: 26/01/2010
France - TF1 allowed to acquire NT1 and TMC
The competition regulator, Autorité de la concurrence, has given its approval for the commercial broadcaster TF1 to acquire the broadcasters NT1 and TMC. As a result, TF1 will hold 100% of NT1 and 80% of TMC.
:: 25/01/2010
Portugal - HD on the DTT platform?
The DTT platform operator Portugal Telecom (PT) is negotiating with the regulators to change the conditions of its DTT license.
:: 24/01/2010
Ireland - Teracom to certify free-to-air DTT receivers
The public service broadcaster RTE, which is leading the free-to-air DTT platform, has announced that it has appointed the Swedish broadcast network operator Teracom to test its DTT receivers.
:: 24/01/2010
Germany - Interest in DVB-H sought by media regulators
Media authorities have announced that they will make a decision by mid-March whether or not to re-issue a license for the operation of a DVB-H platform.
:: 22/01/2010
United Kingdom - Ofcom opens consultation on HD/DTT content management
Ofcom has opened a second consultation on the management of HD content on the DTT platform following a request by the BBC to require the use of content management technology in HD receivers.
:: 22/01/2010
Croatia - ASO to begin on 26 January
Analogue switch-off is set to begin in Croatia on 26 January. Switch-off will begin in the so-called D5 region which covers Istra County, part of Primorje Gorski Kotar County and part of Lika-Senj County.
:: 21/01/2010
France - Meeting to kick-start mobile TV services?
The CSA has called a meeting on 4 February to try to kick-start mobile television. Broadcasters and mobile telecom operators have been invited to attend.
:: 21/01/2010
Italy - New ASO dates for 2010
The timetable for analogue switch-off in 2010 has been delayed in order to avoid disruptions to viewers watching the World Cup. In addition, regional elections are taking place in early 2010.
:: 21/01/2010
Slovakia - HD/DTT trial to begin in February
An HD trial on the DTT platform is set to begin in February as part of the coverage offered for the Winter Olympic Games.
:: 21/01/2010
Australia - Continuous news service to launch in 2010
The public service broadcaster ABC has announced plans to launch a free-to-air continuous television news service in 2010. The new service will be available on the DTT platform.
:: 20/01/2010
France - Orange TV interested in pay-DTT platform
According to Broadband TV News, the mobile telecom operator Orange is interested in obtaining a broadcast license on the pay-DTT platform.
:: 19/01/2010
Latvia - LNT confirms that will switch-off analogue services on 1 April
The pay-DTT service provider, Lattelecom, has announced that 30,000 households use the DTT platform in Latvia. According to the National Radio and Television Board, 220,000 households rely on the analogue terrestrial platform.
:: 19/01/2010
France - TV Numéric to acquire TNTop
The pay-DTT operator, TV Numéric, will acquire its direct competitor TNTop. Both provided subscribers with access to pay-DTT services and receivers.
:: 18/01/2010
France - New DTT services reaching financial equilibrium
The new broadcasters on the DTT platform have started to reach a financial equilibrium in 2009 and most will do so by 2010.
:: 18/01/2010
France - Further ASO dates for Canal+ announced
The CSA has announced the dates for the end of the analogue terrestrial pay service, Canal+, in Rhône-Alpes, Languedoc-Roussillon and Midi-Pyrénées.
:: 13/01/2010
Over 730 services available on DTT platforms across Europe
According to information in the MAVISE database, the number of channels and the number of television platforms continues to grow in Europe (27 EU Member-States and two candidate countries, Croatia and Turkey).
:: 12/01/2010
Czech Republic - DTT reaches 95% of the population
The Czech Republic has reached a 95% population coverage for its DTT services on the first multiplex operated by the public service broadcaster CT.
:: 12/01/2010
Spain - Dahlia TV to leave pay-DTT market
According to Broadband TV News, the pay-DTT operator Dahlia TV is to withdraw from the market due to operational difficulties.
:: 12/01/2010
According to figures published by DGTVi, 20.7 million households access DTT services on at least one television set.
:: 12/01/2010
Impulsa TDT has published its update on the status of DTT services in Spain. According to Impulsa TDT, DTT penetration reached 77.4% of television households at the end of December.
:: 08/01/2010
Portugal - Increase in sale of iDTVs
According to GfK, over 247,000 digital television sets were sold in 2009. A key incentive has been the dropping cost of these television sets with an average price €640 in 2009 compared with €1,490 in 2010.
:: 07/01/2010
France - Push-VOD trials authorised
The CSA has announced that it has authorised two trials of push vido-on-demand (VOD) services on the DTT platform.
:: 05/01/2010
Latvia - 12,000 pay-DTT subscribers in first six months
The telecom operator Lattelecom has announced that it had 55,000 pay television subscribers at the end of 2009. This makes it the largest digital television operator in Latvia.
:: 05/01/2010
Australia - Government opens consultation on digital dividend
The government has opened a consultation on the use of the so-called digital dividend following the completion of digital switchover.
:: 05/01/2010
Australia - Government to support free-to-air satellite service
The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, has announced the launch of a free-to-air satellite service. The new satellite service will target the approximately 247,000 households unable to access DTT services.
:: 04/01/2010
Italy - Delays to ASO expected in 2010
Delays are expected to the analogue switch-off process in 2010 as a result of timing which coincides with the World Cup and regional elections.
:: 01/01/2010
Spain - Government extends DTT Help Scheme until 3 April 2010
The Ministry of Industry expects that 32% of the population will have completed analogue switch-off by the end of January 2010. This represents over 15 million households.
:: 22/12/2009
Ireland - Eircom takes majority share in OneVision
The telecom operator Eircom will take a 65% stake in the DTT platform operator OneVision. Previously, OneVision had been equally owned by Eircom, Setanta, TV3, and Arqiva.
:: 22/12/2009
Slovakia - Launch of DTT services
DTT services have officially launched in Slovakia. One DTT multiplex is available offering coverage to 80% of the population.
:: 19/12/2009
Poland - TV Puls interested in DVB-T platform
The commercial broadcaster TV Puls is considering launching new services on the DTT platform.
:: 18/12/2009
Latvia - ASO to begin in April 2010
Following a meeting between the DTT operator Lattelecom and the broadcast network operator LVRTC, the National Radio and TV Council (NRTP) has proposed that analogue switch-off take place in Riga on 1 April 2010.
:: 17/12/2009
Italy - Cielo to launch on DTT platform
The Deputy Minister of Communications, Paolo Romani has authorised the launch of a new free-to-air service, Cielo, on the DTT platform.
:: 17/12/2009
The broadcast regulator, Conseil supérieur de l’audiovisuel (CSA), has announced the launch of DTT services in 45 new areas as of 18 December.
:: 16/12/2009
Italy - Lazio and Campania complete ASO
The second phase of analogue switch-off has been completed in the regions of Lazio and Campania. These regions include the cities of Rome and Naples.
:: 15/12/2009
Spain - Nearly 75% DTT penetration
According to Impulsa TDT's December news letter, 74.7% of households access DTT services. In the regions of the Canary Islands, Aragon, Catalunya, and Madrid, DTT penetration has surpassed 80% of households.
:: 14/12/2009
Spain - Pay-DTT watched in 150,000 homes
In the three months following the launch of its pay-DTT service, Gol TV has acquired 150,000 subscribers. Across all platforms, Gol TV has reached 1 million subscribers, of which 60% are IPTV subscribers.
:: 14/12/2009
Poland - Proposal to reorganise DTT multiplex allocations
On 21 December, a meeting will take place to determine the services on the DTT platform. A preliminary proposal calls for provision of commercial services on the second multiplex (MUX 2).
:: 13/12/2009
Bahrain - TRA opens consultation on use of the digital dividend
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority in Bahrain has opened a consultation on the current and future usage requirements for radio-frequency spectrum and how spectrum should be managed.
:: 12/12/2009
Latvia - TV3 not ready to join DTT platform
Commercial broadcaster TV3 has announced that it will not yet move to the DTT platform. Rather, it will continue to broadcast its service on the analogue terrestrial platform.
:: 12/12/2009
Panama - Launch of DVB-T services
Free-to-air DTT services officially launched in Panama making it the first country to implement DVB-T in Latin America.
:: 11/12/2009
The research arm for the German-speaking public service broadcasters, Institut für Rundfunktechnik (IRT), has begun a technical trial of DVB-T2.
:: 11/12/2009
Italy - Cielo launch approved by EC
The European Commission has given its approval for the launch of a new free-to-air service on the DTT platform in Italy.
:: 10/12/2009
Cyprus - DTT license tender expected in 2010
The Directorate of Electronic Communications in the Ministry of Communications and Works is preparing a tender for the commercial DTT platform in early 2010.
:: 10/12/2009
France - Government approves €96 million DTT aid
The government has approved an additional DTT aid grant of €96 million. This aid will be available to the 150,000 - 200,000 television households outside of the DTT coverage area.
:: 10/12/2009
DigiTAG publishes position paper on the digital dividend
DigiTAG has recently published a position paper on the digital dividend and the future of the DTT platform.
:: 10/12/2009
Macedonia (fyr) - Cartoon Network available in Macedonia and Latvia
The Cartoon Network is now available on the pay-DTT platforms in both Macedonia and Latvia.
:: 10/12/2009
Russia - VimpelCom launches DVB-H trial in Moscow
The mobile telecom operator VimpelCom launched a trial mobile televison service in Moscow on 7 December. The trial service uses the DVB-H standard.
:: 10/12/2009
Hungary - DTT coverage reaches 88%
DTT services are now available to 88% of the population following the launch of services from ten new transmission sites.
:: 09/12/2009
Finland - Nine broadcasters apply for HD/DTT platform
A total of eight commercial broadcasters have applied for a license to provide HD services on the DTT platform.
:: 09/12/2009
Latvia - ASO expected to begin in March 2010
The government is expected to announce the analogue switch-off timetable by the end of December. According to the plan, some analogue services will be switched off in the region of Riga in March and in the remainder of the country in the summer.
:: 08/12/2009
Spain - DTT receivers to target disabled, elderly
New software has been developed in Spain to adapt DTT set-top boxes to the needs of disabled and elderly viewers.
:: 08/12/2009
Germany - Viseo+ launches in Halle/Leipzig
The pay-DTT service Viseo+ has officially launched in the Halle / Leipzig region on 7 December.
:: 07/12/2009
Russia - Government approves DSO plan and funding
The Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has approved a federal programme for digital switchover including government funding.
:: 07/12/2009
Italy - New DTT services from RAI
The public service broadcaster RAI has announced plans to launch three new digital television services in the period from 2010-2012. With these new services, RAI will offer a total of 13 digital services on the DTT platform.
:: 03/12/2009
United Kingdom - ASO underway in Wales
Analogue switch-off has been completed in two further regions in Wales. The Moel-y-Parc transmitter group completed digital switchover on 25 November while the Long Mountain transmitter group completed the process on 3 December.
:: 02/12/2009
Slovenia - Full service offering on MUX A
The first DTT multiplex in Slovenia, MUX A, is now complete. Viewers can now access the services from public and commercial broadcasters that offer programmes with national coverage.
:: 02/12/2009
Norway - ASO completed on 1 December
On 1 December, the last analogue terrestrial television transmissions were switched off in Troms and Finnmark. The digital switchover process which began with the launch of DTT services in September 2007, is now completed.
:: 02/12/2009
United Kingdom - 10 million DTT households
The free-to-air DTT platform, Freeview, has announced that 10 million homes use the DTT platform for their primary television services in the United Kingdom.
:: 02/12/2009
United Kingdom - DVB-T2 services launched at Winter Hill
Analogue switch-off has been successfully completed in the Winter Hill transmitter group which includes the cities of Liverpool and Manchester.
:: 01/12/2009
Ireland - OneVision seeking financial flexibility for DTT platform
OneVision, the consortium that holds the license to operate the DTT platform, has asked for further flexibility for the financing of the DTT platform.
:: 01/12/2009
Sweden - Launch of sixth multiplex with new services from Boxer
The pay-DTT service operator Boxer has announced the launch of five new services on the DTT platform. This follows the launch of a sixth DTT multiplex by the broadcast network operator Teracom.
:: 01/12/2009
Latvia - EC to open inquiry into DTT license allocation
Following a complaint made by the cable operator Baltkom, the European Commission will open an investigation into the allocation of the license to operate the DTT platform.
:: 01/12/2009
Latvia - Lattelecom encourages consumers to purchase DTT receivers
In order to encourage viewers to switch to digital television, the DTT service provider Lattelecom is offering a special DTT Christmas offer.
:: 26/11/2009
Estonia - Special DTT offer for Christmas
The pay-DTT operator Starman has announced that it will offer a free DTT set-top box to viewers that subscribe to its DTT service for a two-year period.
:: 25/11/2009
DVB issues Call for Technologies for next generation handheld system
The DVB Project has issued a Call for Technologies for its proposed Next Generation Handheld (NGH) standard. DVB is inviting technology inputs for the development of the NGH physical layer on which a full NGH system could be developed.
:: 24/11/2009
France - Interest in pay-DTT platform
It has been reported in Les Echos that two communications groups are interested in acquiring a license to operate a broadcast service on the pay-DTT platform.
:: 22/11/2009
The Digital Terrestrial Switchover Strategy was adopted by the Council of Ministers on 17 June 2009 followng the recommendations made by the DTT Forum of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), the Communications Regulatory Agency, and the Ministry for Traffic and Communications.
:: 22/11/2009
Germany - Viseo+ ready to launch in Leipzig/Halle
RTL and Eutelsat have announced the launch of their pay-DTT service in the Leipzig/Halle region on 7 December.
:: 20/11/2009
Telecom Package set for final approval
The European Council has adopted the Telecoms Reform package which had first been proposed by the European Commission in 2007. As a next step, the European Parliament is expected to approve the legislation next week.
:: 19/11/2009
Italy - Mediaset launches Premium-On-Demand
The commercial broadcaster Mediaset has announced the launch of Premium-On-Demand. The new service will allow viewers to access video content on demand.
:: 19/11/2009
United Kingdom - Ofcom publishes reference parameters for DTT platform
The communications regulator Ofcom has published the currently applicable transmission standards for use on the DTT platform.
:: 19/11/2009
France - ASO completed in Cherbourg
The third digital switchover pilot has been completed in France. The region of Nord-Cotentin (Cherbourg) completed analogue switch-off on the night 18-19 November which affected 200,000 households.
:: 18/11/2009
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Llanddona
Digital switchover has been completed at the Llanddona transmitter group in Wales.
:: 18/11/2009
South Africa - MHEG-5 selected for interactive services
According to advanced-television.com, South Africa has officially selected MHEG-5 for its interactive television middleware on the DTT platform.
:: 17/11/2009
Bulgaria - ORS reiterates interest in NURTS
The Austrian broadband network operator ORS has reiterated its interest in acquiring the broadcast network in Bulgaria.
:: 17/11/2009
United Kingdom - Ofcom publishes discussion paper on "white space" devices
The communications regulator Ofcom has published a discussion document on the use of the "white spaces" between television channels to transmit and receive wireless services.
:: 16/11/2009
Poland - TVP opens tender for DTT technical operator
The public service broadcaster TVP has opened a tender for the technical operation a multiplex (MUX 3) which has been allocated exclusively for TVP services.
:: 16/11/2009
United Kingdom - HD/DTT roll-out schedule announced
The BBC has published the official timetable for DVB-T2 roll-out across the United Kingdom. One DVB-T2 multiplex will offer viewers access to up to five HD services.
:: 16/11/2009
Nokia launches new DVB-H receiver
Nokia has announced the launch of the Nokia 5330 Mobile TV receiver that can access DVB-H services. The receiver has been designed to accommodate video watching over longer periods of time and ensures quality sound and image.
:: 15/11/2009
Ireland - DTT contracts on hold
The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) has written to the OneVision consortium to make progress with its plans for the launch of DTT services. OneVision holds the license to operate the commercial DTT platform.
:: 15/11/2009
France - DTT platform in HD by 2015?
According to a member of the CSA, Alain Méart, the 18 services on the free-to-air DTT platform should be available in HD by 2015.
:: 13/11/2009
Romania - DTT coverage to reach 90% of population by 2012
The broadcast network operator Radiocom has announced that it will participate in the tender for the operation of the first two DTT multiplexes.
:: 13/11/2009
France - ASO date announced for Franche-Comté and Burgundy
The CSA has announced that analogue switch-off will be completed in the regions of Burgundy and the Franche-Comté on 16 November 2010.
:: 13/11/2009
Spain - DTT penetration reaches 72%
A total of 72.1% of television households access DTT services in Spain. DTT penetration is highest in the Canary Islands where it is accessed by over 80% of the population.
:: 12/11/2009
Macedonia (fyr) - Viaccess to secure pay-DTT platform
The DTT platform operator On.Net has selected Viaccess to secure its pay-DTT platform, BoomTV. On.Net is a subsidiary of Telekom Slovenije.
:: 11/11/2009
Slovakia - MPEG-2 expected for free-to-air DTT platform
Reports suggest that the multiplex offering free-to-air services in Slovakia will use MPEG-2 compression technology.
:: 11/11/2009
Algeria - Ready for a DTT launch
DigiTAG, together with the EBU, has participated in a two-day seminar on digital switchover. The seminar took place in Algeria and provided information to participants on DTT technologies and business models.
:: 10/11/2009
Italy - Strong results for Mediaset Premium
According to the latest Mediaset financial results, the excellent performance of its pay-DTT offer, Mediaseet Premium, helped it to mitigate the impact of its falling advertisement revenue.
:: 09/11/2009
United Kingdom - Ofcom declines changes to BBC's MUX B license conditions
The communications regulator Ofcom has declined an initial request by the BBC to amend its Multiplex B license.
:: 09/11/2009
Japan - Nearly 70% DTT penetration
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications DTT penetration has reached 69.5% of television households by the end of September. This is an increase of 9% in a six month period.
:: 06/11/2009
Italy - News Corp to launch new service on DTT platform
News Corporation, which owns the pay satellite platform Sky Italia, has announced plans to launch a free-to-air television service on the DTT platform.
:: 05/11/2009
Latvia - LNT and TV3 call for early ASO
The two leading commercial broadcasters on the analogue terrestrial platform, LNT and TV3, are considering switching off their analogue channels in the capital city of Riga in early 2010.
:: 03/11/2009
Netherlands - Cable operator CAIW launches DVB-T on its network
The cable operator CAIW has launched a bouquet of 18 television services using DVB-T on its network.
:: 02/11/2009
Sweden - Boxer launches Boxer Triple
The pay-DTT platform operator Boxer has announced plans to launch a triple play service.
:: 02/11/2009
Denmark - Launch of new DTT services
Following the completion of analogue switch-off on 1 November, new services have been made available to viewers on the DTT plaform.
:: 02/11/2009
Denmark - Analogue switch-off completed nationwide
Analogue switch-off was completed throughout Denmark on Sunday, 1 November. The two services from Danmarks Radio, DR1 and DR2, and the TV2 were switched off.
:: 30/10/2009
Germany - Local DVB-T broadcast licenses allocated in Saxony
The Saxon State Institute for Commercial broadcasting (SLM) has granted licenses to commercial broadcasters in various cities in Saxony.
:: 30/10/2009
Hungary - 50% growth in DTT receiver sales
According to the DTT platform operator Antenna Hungaria, the sale of DTT receivers grew by 50% during the month of September in comparison with the previous month. This is based upon figures provided by GfK.
:: 29/10/2009
France - DTT coverage extended in the south
The CSA has announced that DTT services will launch at four new transmitter sites in the southern part of France.
:: 28/10/2009
EC calls for ASO completion by 1 January 2012
The European Commission has issued its communications on the use of the digital dividend in the UHF frequency band following the completion of digital switchover.
:: 28/10/2009
Poland - INFO-TV-FM launches DVB-H pilot
The holder of the license to operate DVB-H services, INFO-TV-FM, has launched a DVB-H pilot in the city of Warsaw. The pilot will last for two months starting in early November.
:: 28/10/2009
Australia - Launch of 7TWO on DTT platform on 1 November
The commercial broadcaster Seven is set to launch its new free-to-air service on the DTT platform, 7 TWO, on 1 November. 7 TWO will provide general entertainment for all ages.
:: 27/10/2009
Italy - ASO completed in province of Trento
Digital switchover has been completed in the northeastern province of Trento. It affected approximately 240,000 residents in the region.
:: 27/10/2009
Slovakia - Potential delays for planned DTT launch by end 2009
According to DigiZone, the DTT platform operator Towercom may have difficulty launching its service by the end of the year.
:: 23/10/2009
Germany - Leipzig to offer local DVB-T services
Telecommunications network operator Mugler has received a license to build a local DVB-T network in Leipzig. This will be the first low-power DTT network in Germany.
:: 22/10/2009
Hungary - NIH claims MinDigTV fails to meet DTT license obligation
The National Communications Authority, NIH, has imposed a fine of HUF 40 million (€150,000) on the DTT platform operator Antenna Hungaria, for its failure to meet its license obligations.
:: 21/10/2009
Italy - Sky Italia viewers to access RAI content via DTT platform
The pay satellite operator Sky Italia has announced plans to launch a USB stick that can be connected to a Sky HD or My Sky HD satellite to provide access to the free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 21/10/2009
According to the latest information published by Impulsa TDT, DTT penetration reached 70% of households at the end of September 2009.
:: 20/10/2009
United Kingdom - BBC ends some interactive services
The BBC has announced that it will stop providing two out of its three interactive services on the DTT platform. However, these services will continue to remain available on the cable and satellite platforms.
:: 20/10/2009
France - Canal+ to switch-off in Paris by end 2010
The CSA has announced that the pay channel, Canal+, will end its analogue terrestrial service in the region of Paris (Île-de-France) on 24 November 2010.
:: 19/10/2009
Italy - RAI launches new DTT service
The public service broadcaster RAI is launching a new service, RAI SCUOLA, on the DTT platform.
:: 16/10/2009
Spain - Draft Audiovisual law presented to Parliament
The Spanish government (Council of Ministers) has approved a draft audiovisual which will now be sent to the Parliament for approval.
:: 16/10/2009
Lithuania - TEO adds over 25,000 pay DTT subscribers
The pay DTT service operator TEO has announced that it added 25,800 subscribers to its DVB-T service in the first nine months of 2009.
:: 16/10/2009
United Kingdom - Arqiva and BBC announce DVB-T2 agreement
The BBC and the broadcast network operator Arqiva have announced an agreement to upgrade parts of the DTT network to the second generation terrestrial television standard, DVB-T2.
:: 16/10/2009
United States - ATSC develops mobile TV standard
The Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) has approved the ATSC Mobile DTV Standard. The standard is formally known as A/153 and also referred to as ATSC-Mobile/Handheld (ATSC-M/H).
:: 15/10/2009
Norway - RiksTV only platform to offer TV2 HD
The pay-DTT platform operator RiksTV claims to be the largest supplier of HD content in Norway. It is the only platform to offer the commercial service TV2 in HD which has been available since 15 June 2009.
:: 15/10/2009
Hungary - 55,000 DTT households
According to the DTT platform operator Antenna Hungaria, 55,000 households access DTT services at the end of August 2009. Only recently has the full line up of content been made available on the free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 14/10/2009
Italy - ASO underway in Campania
The first phase of analogue switch-off has begun in the provinces of Naples, Salerno, and Caserta. The analogue channels of Rai 2 and Rete 4 have been switched off.
:: 14/10/2009
France - TDF willing to pay part of DVB-H network roll-out
The broadcast network operator TDF is proposing to finance the initial cost of the roll-out of the DVB-H network in France to 17% of the population.
:: 14/10/2009
France - CSA confirms ASO date for regions of Poitou, Centre and le Nord
The CSA has confirmed that analogue terrestrial services will be switched off in the regions of Poitou-Charentes, Centre and le Nord between October and December 2010.
:: 14/10/2009
Germany - Launch of pay-DTT platform in Stuttgart
Pay-DTT services will officially begin in the region of Stuttgart on 15 October. The new service, Viseo+, is offered by the satellite operator Eutelsat and the commercial broadcaster RTL.
:: 14/10/2009
Norway - Eurosport to launch on RiksTV
The pay DTT platform operator RiksTV has announced plans to launch Eurosport on its platform by 15 November.
:: 13/10/2009
United Kingdom - ITV no longer selling multiplex operator SDN
Commercial broadcaster ITV has announced that it has eschewed plans to sell SDN which operates one commercial DTT multiplex. According to ITV, keeping SDN provided the greatest potential value to shareholders.
:: 13/10/2009
Germany - Media regulators open to licensing DVB-H services
The head of the media authorities' licensing commission, ZAK, welcomes the renewed interest in DVB-H services in Germany.
:: 13/10/2009
Poland - DSO plan approved by intergovernment panel
The draft plan for digital switchover presented by the Ministry of Infrastructure in July 2009 has been approved by the Intergovernmental Panel on Digital Broadcasting. It now requires approval by the Council of Minister.
:: 13/10/2009
New Zealand - Prime joins DTT platform
According to the latest figures published by Freeview, 113,936 households in New Zealand now access DTT services. In addition, a further 291,853 households access Freeview services via satellite.
:: 12/10/2009
Spain - Government to spend €11 million on DSO projects in 2010
The Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce has announced that it will allocate €11 million to fund digital switchover projects in 2010. Analogue switch-off is set to be completed on 3 April 2010.
:: 08/10/2009
France - 43.1% DTT penetration
Figures published by the CSA show that 70.3% of all television households in France access digital television services on at least one television set.
:: 08/10/2009
Italy - ASO completed in western Piedmont
Analogue switch-off has been completed in most parts of the two provinces of Turin and Cuneo, including the major cities, on 7 October.
:: 08/10/2009
Sweden - Teracom begins deployment of MUX 6
The broadcast network operator Teracom has announced that it will begin the deployment of the 6th DTT multiplex. Previous deployment had stopped in October 2008 following disagreement between Teracom and the communications regulator PTS.
:: 08/10/2009
Lithuania - Three HD/DTT services available in Vilnius
The pay-DTT operator, TEO, has announced the launch of three HD services in the region of Vilnius. These services include Eurosport HD, Discovery HD and National Geographic Channel HD.
:: 08/10/2009
Latvia - DTT receivers made more widely available
The pay-DTT platform operator, Lattelecom, is now making DTT receivers available in two retail stores, Ekor and RD Electronics. Previously, DTT receivers were only available from Lattelecom.
:: 08/10/2009
Finland - DNA Oy to offer DVB-H services
The mobile telecom service provider, DNA Oy, is making mobile television services available to its subscribers. The service will use Digita's DVB-H network available in the regions of Helsinki, Tampere, Oulu, Turku and Salo.
:: 08/10/2009
France - Paris to complete ASO in March 2011
The broadcast regulator CSA has announced that analogue switch-off will be completed in the Paris region (Ile-de-France) by 8 March 2011.
:: 07/10/2009
Slovakia - Towercom fulfills first DTT license obligation
The DTT license holder, Towercom, has paid the regulator for the use of the frequencies for its DTT platform. This is the first license obligation which Towercom had been required to fulfil by 7 October.
:: 06/10/2009
Spain - ASO to be completed in severa areas by end October
Several areas in Andalucia, Castilla y Leon, and the Basque Country will switch-off analogue services during the month of October. This will affect a total of 1 million residents.
:: 06/10/2009
Germany - ECJ confirms German DTT aid illegal
The European Court of Justice has rejected the complaint lodged by the German government and Berlin media regulator, MABB, against the European Commission's decision regarding state aid to the DTT platform.
:: 01/10/2009
United Kingdom - Ofcom selects transmission mode for DVB-T2 multiplex
The communications regulator Ofcom has officially published its decision for the choice of the DVB-T2 transmission mode for the Multiplex B.
:: 30/09/2009
Italy - 11.1 million DTT households
According to the latest figures published by DGTVi, 11.1 million households relied on the DTT platform for their primary television services at the end of July.
:: 30/09/2009
Czech Republic - Ocko rejoins DTT platform
The television programme service Ocko is set to rejoin the DTT platform on 1 October. It will be available on Multiplex 4 which is operated by Telefónica O2 and available to 30% of the population on a trial basis.
:: 29/09/2009
United Kingdom - 9.9 million DTT-only households
The digital penetration publishes by Ofcom show that 89.8% of household receive digital television services on at least one television set in the period ending in June 2009.
:: 29/09/2009
Hungary - Champions League available on DVB-H platform
Viewers will be able to access Champions League matches from their DVB-H receivers. This follows an agreement between the DVB-H platform operator, Antenna Hungaria, and the Champions League rights' holder, TV3.
:: 28/09/2009
Poland - DVB-H services expected to launch
DVB-H services ar expected to launch on 29 September. The DVB-H license holder, Info-TV-FM, is expected to make 13 television and 4 radio services available.
:: 28/09/2009
Hungary - Monthly installment programme for DTT receiver
A financial programme has been set up to enable the purchase of a DTT set-top box through a monthly payment plan.
:: 25/09/2009
United Kingdom - SDN expected to fetch £250 million for ITV
The multiplex operator SDN will be sold by the commercial broadcaster ITV which had bought SDN in 2005 for less than £150 million. The final rounds of bids will take place next week.
:: 24/09/2009
Slovakia - Regulator confirms DTT services to launch by end of year
The Telecommunications Office (TU SR) has confirmed that commercial DTT services will launch by the end of 2009 and must be available to 79.7% of the population.
:: 23/09/2009
United Kingdom - ASO underway in Wales
In September, three transmitter groups completed analogue switch-off in the southern part of Wales. DTT coverage is now available to 98% of the Welsh population.
:: 22/09/2009
Italy - Val d'Aoste completed analogue switch-off
The region of Val d'Aoste became the second region in Italy to complete analogue switch-off. The process began on 14 September and was completed on 22 September.
:: 22/09/2009
Poland - First multiplex will not launch by 30 September
It is not clear when the first DTT multiplex will be launched. Initially, the communications regulator, UKE, had called for the multiplex to launch by 30 September.
:: 22/09/2009
Germany - Rumours of interest in DVB-H
Rumours of an interest in mobile television services are emerging. Both Rapid TV News and Broadband TV News have reported an interest in the launch of DVB-H.
:: 21/09/2009
Spain - Law allowing pay-DTT services approved by Parliament
The Parliament has officially approved the launch of pay services on the DTT platform. Previously, the introduction of such services had been permitted through a Royal Decree issued on 13 August.
:: 20/09/2009
Ireland - Ownership structure of OneVision may change
The owners of OneVision, the license holders for the commercial DTT platform, have announced plans to change the ownership structure. However, such changes will require the approval of the communications regulator BCI.
:: 20/09/2009
France - Paris Première free-to-air for 2 hours on DTT platform
The pay-DTT service, Paris Première, will be available free-to-air for two hours per day during the 2009-2010 television season.
:: 17/09/2009
France - National ASO campaign begins
The national analogue switch-off publicity campaign has been officially launched. On Sunday, 20 September, the first 45 second televised advertisements were broadcast.
:: 17/09/2009
United Kingdom - On-screen reminders about national re-tun begin
On-screen reminders have begun appearing on the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Five services to inform viewers about the impending national upgrade of the DTT platform.
:: 16/09/2009
Kenya - DVB-T to launch by end of September
A first multiplex operated by the public service broadcaster Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) is expected to launch by the end of the month.
:: 16/09/2009
Hungary - Two new services on DVB-H platform
The pre-commercial DVB-H service avialable in the Budapest region has added two new television programme services.
:: 14/09/2009
United Kingdom - Ofcom to select DVB-T2 transmission mode in coming weeks
In the next few weeks, Ofcom is set to select the transmission configuration for the DVB-T2 HD multiplex that will be launched in December 2009. Currently, 7 transmission modes are being tested.
:: 14/09/2009
Ukraine - President call for ASO completion by 2012
The president Viktor Yushchenko is calling for the completion of analogue switch-off by 2012. He had noted that several neighbouring countries, such as Slovakia, Romania, and Hungary plan on meeting the European Commission's recommended 2012 deadline.
:: 11/09/2009
Russia - Open market conditions to apply for DTT tenders
According to the deputy minister of mass communications and telecommunications, Aleksandr Zharov, foreign companies will be allowed to participate in the digital switchover process.
:: 10/09/2009
Formation of DVB-T2 patent pool underway
The licensing organisation Sisvel has announced that preliminary discussion have been held with companies that hold patent rights to the DVB-T2 specification.
:: 10/09/2009
Norway - No agreement for RiksTV sale
The sale of the pay-DTT operator RiksTV has not been completed. Desite interest from several companies, no agreement has been reached on the sale price.
:: 09/09/2009
United Kingdom - ASO completed in West Country
Analogue switch-off has been entirely completed in the West Country region. The Caradon Hill transmitter group, which includes 28 relay stations, switched off all analogue services on 9 September.
:: 09/09/2009
Portugal - DTT coverage reaches 60% of population
Portugal Telecom (PT) which operates the DTT platform has announced that DTT services are now available to 60% of the population.
:: 09/09/2009
Netherlands - KPN has no plans for HD/DTT services
The pay-DTT service provider, KPN, has announced that it does not currently have plans to launch HD services on the DTT platform.
:: 09/09/2009
Bulgaria - Conax to provide CA services
The conditional access service provider, Conax, has announced that it will provide services for the pay-DTT platform in Bulgaria. Its services have been selected by the platform operator Hannu Pro.
:: 09/09/2009
United States - Less than 1% of households without DTV access
Nielsen has announced that only 0.6% of television households do not have access to digital television services. This is approximately 710,000 housholds.
:: 09/09/2009
Germany - 11.2% DTT penetration
According to the Digitalisation Report 2009 published by the regulatory authorities (ALM), 55% of German households access digital television services on at least one television set.
:: 08/09/2009
Spain - DTT penentration reaches 67%
According to the September newletter published by Impulsa TDT, DTT penetration has reached 67.3% of television households in Spain. Over 1.1 million DTT receivers were sold in the month of July.
:: 08/09/2009
France - Competition authorities to investigate TF1 acquisitions
Plans by the commercial broadcaster TF1 to acquire the broadcasters NT1 and TMC will be examined by the competition authorities. Plans had been announced on 24 July.
:: 04/09/2009
United Kingdom - DTG announces Freeview HD testing to begin in October
The DTG has announced that product testing for Freeview HD and Freeview+ HD receivers will begin in October. The first HD services on the DTT platform will launch from the Winter Hill transmitter in December 2009 and use the DVB-T2 standard.
:: 03/09/2009
Spain - ASO could be moved forward to early March
The Secretary of State for Telecommunications, Francisco Ros, has suggested that the date for the completion of analogue switch-off could be moved forward. Currently, analogue switch-off is set to be completed by 3 April 2010.
:: 03/09/2009
France - CSA announces dates for Canal+ switch-off
The CSA has announced the dates for the switch-off of the analogue pay broadcaster Canal+'s analogue terrestrial services in several regions.
:: 03/09/2009
United Kingdom - Content protection for HD/DTT platform
Ofcom is seeking comments from the broadcast industry regarding possible changes to the licensing terms of Multiplex B. This multiplex will provide HD services using DVB-T2 and MPEG-4 AVC.
:: 02/09/2009
Spain - Nagravision to secure pay-DTT platform
The conditiona access provider Nagravision has announced that it will be used to secure the pay-DTT platform operated by the broadcast network operator Abertis.
:: 02/09/2009
Germany - ProSiebenSat.1 continues on DTT platform
The broadcast network operator Media Broadcast has signed an agreement with the broadcaster ProSiebenSat.1 for the provision of its services on the DVB-T platform.
:: 01/09/2009
Macedonia (fyr) - Viaccess to secure pay-DTT platform
The Viaccess conditional access system will be used to secure the DTT platform in Macedonia which the platform operator, On.Net plans to launch in 2010. It seeks a 10% market share within the first year.
:: 01/09/2009
Hungary - Eurosport joins MinDigTV platform
Viewers in Hungary can now access Euronews on the free-to-air DTT platform. Euronews is available on a trial basis since 28 August.
:: 31/08/2009
Sweden - DVB-T2 trial to begin in September
The broadcast network operator Teracom has announced that it will begin DVB-T2 trials in September.
:: 28/08/2009
Denmark - 220 local DTT services to be made available
The Danish Radio and Television Board (Radio- og tv-nævnet) has issued 220 licences for local television services on the DTT platform.
:: 28/08/2009
The government has released its second Digital Tracker Survey which provides a quarterly survey of digital television take-up, awareness and attitudes in Australia for the period April to June 2009.
:: 28/08/2009
New Zealand - ASO steering group set-up
A joint government/industry steering board has been set up to manage analogue switch-off and provide advice to the government on the process. The group will be led by Anna Verboeket.
:: 26/08/2009
Hungary - TechniSat to provide STBs on a monthly installment basis
The broadcast network operator has announced that the manufacturer TechniSat will make DVB-T set-top boxes available for the free-to-air DTT platform, MinDigTV.
:: 26/08/2009
France - DTT services to launch in extra-territorialities by end 2010
The Secretary of State for Overseas Territories, Marie-Luce Penchard, has announced that DTT services will be launched in these territories before the end of 2010.
:: 24/08/2009
Spain - Pay DTT to generate €5 billion over next 4 years
According to the government, the introduction of pay services on the DTT platform will generate €5 billion in business over the next four years.
:: 19/08/2009
United Kingdom - First stage of ASO completed in south west Wales
The analogue channel BBC Two has been switched off in south Wales. The process will be completed on 16 September when all analogue channels are switched off.
:: 18/08/2009
Romania - TV1 and TV2 granted DTT broadcast licenses
The National Audiovisual Council (CNA) has granted DTT licenses to two services, TVR 1 and TVR 2, of the public service broadcaster. Initially, the public service broadcaster had requested licenses for 11 of its services.
:: 17/08/2009
Denmark - Boxer announces pay-DTT services available from 1 November
The pay-DTT operator Boxer has announced its service offering in Denmark. A total of 25 television programme services are available in a combination of different packages.
:: 16/08/2009
Spain - Two pay-DTT services announced
The pay-DTT platform Dahlia TV plans to serve as the interface between subscribers and viewers. It will offer viewers different pay packages based on the content made available by broadcasters.
:: 14/08/2009
Slovakia - Towercom to operate DTT platform
The Telecommunications Office (TU SR) has announced that the broadcast network operator Towercom has been allocated two DTT platform licenses. Towercom already holds a license to operate two DTT multiplexes in Bulgaria.
:: 13/08/2009
Latvia - DTT services officially launched in Riga
The first phase of the DTT service launch has been officially completed. Viewers within a 70km radius of the capital city Riga can now access DTT services.
:: 13/08/2009
Spain - Government approves launch of pay-DTT services
The Spanish government has issued a Royal Decree allowing for the introduction of pay services on the DTT platform. It justified its action by noting that the launch of pay DTT services is necessary and urgent.
:: 13/08/2009
Spain - Drop in sales of iDTVs
According to figures published by GfK, the number of iDTVs sold in Spain during the month of June fell by 19% in comparison with the previous month.
:: 13/08/2009
Spain - Consejo de Estado issues unfavourable opinion on pay-DTT services
The advisory body, Consejo de Estado, has issued an unfavourable opinion regarding the government's plan to permit the launch of pay services on the DTT platform via a Royal Decree.
:: 12/08/2009
Romania - Romkatel supplies DTT services to SNR
The broadcast network operator SNR has selected Romkatel as its supplier of DTT services. Romkatel is the local representative of the manufacturer Kathrein.
:: 11/08/2009
New Zealand - Government opens consultation on digital dividend
The government has opened a consultation on the allocation of the digital dividend following the completion of digital switchover. The consultation is open until 30 September.
:: 09/08/2009
Spain - Government set to approve launch of pay-DTT services
It is expected that the government will approve legislation allowing for the launch of pay services on the DTT platform on 13 August.
:: 06/08/2009
Spain - abertis renounces acquistion of Axion and Telediffusion de Madrid
The broadcast network operator abertis telecom has renounced the acquisition of two local broadcast networks in Madrid and Andalucia.
:: 06/08/2009
Spain - DVB-T2 trial underway in Seville
The broadcast network operator abertis telecom is undertaking a DVB-T2 trial in the city of Seville in partnership with 25 companies in the Spanish telecom and audiovisual sectors.
:: 05/08/2009
Portugal - Anacom publishes results of consultation on digital dividend
The communications regulator Anacom has published the results of its consultation on the use of the digital dividend. It received responses from 17 organisations including broadcasters, telecom operators, pay-television operators, and technology firms.
:: 05/08/2009
United States - Spike in demand for DTV coupons in final days
According to information published by the National Telecommunications & Information Administration (NTIA), the goverment's DTV coupon programme had strong demand in its final days.
:: 05/08/2009
Israel - DTT services officially launched
DTT services have officially launched on 2 August. The DTT network is managed by Beseq.
:: 05/08/2009
United Kingdom - ASO completed in West Cornwall
Digital switchover has been completed for the Redruth transmitter group servicing the area of West Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly on 5 August. It includes one high-power transmission site and 15 dependent relay sites.
:: 05/08/2009
France - DTT coverage for over 88% of population
The CSA has announced that DTT services have been launched in 55 new areas throughout the country. DTT coverage is now available to over 88% of the population.
:: 30/07/2009
Italy - Mediaset Premium growth continues
Mediaset has reported that it earned €148.3 million in revenue from its Mediaset Premium service in the first six months of 2009. This is an increase of 84.5% in comparison with the first six months of 2008 when revenue reached €80.4 million.
:: 29/07/2009
Netherlands - Digitenne to increase monthly cost by €1
The pay-DTT service, Digitenne, will increase its cost by 20%. The basic subscription package will increase in cost from €7.50 to €8.50 per month. This cost remains significantly lower than the basic cable offers.
:: 29/07/2009
United Kingdom - Nationwide DTT re-tune on 30 September
Freeview viewers will need to retune their receivers on 30 September in order to continue accessing services. Changes will be made to multiplexes to allow for the universal availability of Channel 5 and the launch of Freeview HD.
:: 29/07/2009
United Kingdom - ASO completed in North Devon
Analogue switch-off has been completed at the Huntshaw Cross transmitter group in North Devon which consists of one high-power transmitter and 14 dependent relay stations.
:: 28/07/2009
Ireland - Mobile TV services to be made available in urban areas
ComReg has published the results of its consultation on the availability of UHF spectrum in several urban areas. It received 11 responses from network operators, telecom operators, and broadcasters.
:: 28/07/2009
United States - $1.5 billion spent on STB coupon programme
The government's coupon programme which provided viewers access to 2 coupons each worth $40 to use towards the purchase of DTT set-top boxes will end on 30 July.
:: 28/07/2009
Czech Republic - Plzen ready for ASO
According to Broadband TV News, 75% of residents in the city of Plzen are prepared for analogue switch-off which is set to take place at the end of September.
:: 24/07/2009
Netherlands - DTT subscribers continue to grow
KPN has reported that it had 830,000 subscriber to its pay-DTT service, Digitenne, at the end of the second quarter. This represents nearly 12% of all television households.
:: 23/07/2009
United States - Viewing levels return to pre-ASO levels
Television viewing decreased in the two weeks following the switch-off of analogue services on 12 June. However, the decrease was temporary and viewing levels have returned.
:: 23/07/2009
Malta - 11.2% rely on free-to-air terrestrial TV
The Malta Communications Authority (MCA) has published the results of its recent survey on digital switchover.
:: 23/07/2009
France - Government publishes ASO roadmap
The Prime Minister, together with the Strategic Committee on Digitalisation (CSN) published the roadmap for analogue switch-off and confirmed that the process will be completed by 30 November 2011.
:: 22/07/2009
South Africa - Government issues draft STB strategy
The Ministry of Communications has published its draft strategy for the development of its set-top manufacturing sector. Responses will be accepted until 7 August. The goverment plans to adopt the final strategy in September.
:: 22/07/2009
United Kingdom - ASO completed in Cumbria
Digital switchover has been completed for the Calbeck transmitter group in south-west Scotland (Cumbria). This group consists of 1 main transmitter site and 46 relay sites.
:: 21/07/2009
Romania - Government issues DSO plan
According to Broadband TV News, the government has published its plan for digital switchover. The plan calls for the allocation of 6 national DTT multiplexes and 1 regional DTT multiplex.
:: 21/07/2009
Lithuania - 37,900 pay-DTT subscribers
The pay-DTT service provider TEO has issued its results for the first six months of 2009. During this period, it added 11,500 new subscriber based to its DTT platform.
:: 20/07/2009
Australia - Freeview to use MHEG-5
The free-to-air DTT consortium, Freeview, has selected MHEG-5 for its interactive television middleware. Receiver specifications, including the Australian MHEG-5 profile, are available under the terms of a non-disclosure agreement.
:: 20/07/2009
France - NRJ 12 to broadcast Disney content
NRJ 12, a broadcaster on the free-to-air DTT platform, has signed an agreement with Disney-ABC-ESPN Television for exclusive access to content from the Disney Channel and Disney XD.
:: 16/07/2009
Slovakia - Three bids submitted for DTT licenses
The Telecommunications Office (TU SR) has published the names of the companies that have tendered for two licenses to operate DTT platforms. The deadline for submitting bids was 16 July.
:: 16/07/2009
United Kingdom - Analogue switch-off completed on Isle of Man
Digital switchover has been completed in the Isle of Man in the Border TV region affecting 38,000 households. All analogue services on the Douglas transmitter group have been switched off.
:: 16/07/2009
Poland - Government publishes draft DSO plan
The Ministry of Infrastructure has published a draft plan for digital switchover. The plan has been prepared by the electronic communications regulator UKE, the broadcast regulator KRRiT, and the Ministry of Infrastructure.
:: 15/07/2009
Spain - 9 areas to complete ASO in October
The Ministry of Industry, Tourism, and Trade has announced the dates for analogue switch-off in 9 areas located in Andalucia, Castilla y Leon, and the Basque Country. Switch-off will take place between 6 and 31 October.
:: 15/07/2009
Australia - Nine to launch GO! on DTT platform in August
Nine Network has announced that it will launch a new service on the DTT platform on 9 August. The new service, GO!, will provide youth-focused content in standard-definition.
:: 15/07/2009
New Zealand - DTT penetration reaches 6%
In the last quarter, the number of free-to-air satellite and terrestrial households grew by 11,846 households. According to Freeview, the DTT and satellite platform operator, this growth can be attributed to the falling cost of receivers.
:: 15/07/2009
Japan - Digital dividend for mobile TV services?
The government has opened a consultation on the use of the so-called digital dividend following the completion of analogue switch-off on 24 July 2011. Mobile television is one possible service allocation.
:: 14/07/2009
Serbia - Government to make DTT subsidies available
The government has adopted the Strategy for the Switchover from Analogue to Digital Broadcasting. According to the strategy, between €87 - 115 million will be required to fund switchover.
:: 13/07/2009
Spain - Pay-DTT receiver specifications almost ready for approval
The first version of the technial requirements for pay-DTT receivers has been published. The process has been led by the broadcast network operator Abertis under the aegis of the government.
:: 10/07/2009
EC consultation on digital dividend calls for MPEG-4 AVC mandation
The European Commission (EC) has opened a consultation on the digital dividend. In its consultation document, it calls for a coordinated approach to the use of the digital dividend as well as the establishment of an EU roadmap.
:: 10/07/2009
Poland - Tender for second DTT multiplex expected this year
According to the head of the electronic communications regulator UKE, the invitation to tender for the operation of a second DTT multiplex could take place as early as August.
:: 10/07/2009
Spain - DTT penetration reaches 61.5%
According to the latest information published by Impulsa TDT, DTT penetration has reached 61.5% of all television households. DTT services are availble to 95% of the population.
:: 09/07/2009
Ireland - Launch of DTT services in September delayed
The public service broadcaster RTE has stated that it will not launch its DTT platform in September as initially planned. Rather RTE will launch its services alongside the commercial DTT platform.
:: 09/07/2009
Germany - 16 million DVB-T receivers sold
It is estimated that, at the end of 2008, well over 16 million DVB-T receivers had been sold in Germany. DTT services are availble to 90% of the population of which 30% can access portable services.
:: 08/07/2009
Norway - Government decides against launch of a second pay-DTT operator
The government has decided that the DTT platform operator Norges Televisjon (NTV) will not be required to provide capacity for a second pay-DTT operator. Currently, only Riks TV provides pay-DTT services.
:: 08/07/2009
Italy - 41% DTT household penetration
At the end of April, 8.7 million television households relied on the DTT platform for access to their primary television services. This represents a penetration of 41% of all television households.
:: 07/07/2009
United States - Estimated 653,000 new pay TV subscribers following ASO
According to an analyst at Wells Fargo Securities, digital switchover will have brought 653,000 new subscribers to pay television operators in the United States.
:: 07/07/2009
Denmark - Canal+ and Canal9 join DTT platform
Boxer has announced that it has secured the rights to broadcast the services of Canal9 and Canal+ on the DTT platform.
:: 06/07/2009
Belgium - Regulator to revise DTT strategic plan
The broadcast regulator for the French-speaking community of Belgium, CSA, has published the results of the consultation on its DTT strategy. Responses have been received from 9 companies.
:: 06/07/2009
Spain - Satellite to fill DTT coverage gaps
It is expected that Impulsa TDT will distribute satellite receivers to those households that will be outside of the DTT coverage area. It is estimated that 2% of households will not be able to receive DTT services once the platform is fully rolled out.
:: 06/07/2009
Finland - DNA allocated license to operate two DVB-T2 multiplexes
The Ministry of Transport and Communications has issued a license to operate two DVB-T2 multiplexes to the telecomm operator DNA Oy. These two multiplexes will provide HDTV services using frequencies in the VHF band.
:: 03/07/2009
South Africa - ICASA issues statement on DTT policy
The communications regulator, ICASA, has issued a statement regarding its policy for the DTT platform. It has allocated capacity on three multiplexes to broadcasters and plans to allocate mobile television services by the end of 2009.
:: 02/07/2009
Tubestick Map allows viewers to determine DTT services available in given location
Equinux which has developed a DTT receiver for MAC users, the TubeStick, has launched a map detailing DTT services available around the world.
:: 02/07/2009
Slovenia - Apek opens tenders for 3 DTT service licenses
The communications regulator APEK is inviting candidates to tender for three free-to-air DTT broadcast licenses. These television programme service slots will be available in multiplexes A and B, both of which have national coverage.
:: 01/07/2009
France - CSA announces ASO date in Lorraine
The CSA has announced that analogue switch-off will be completed on 28 September 2010 in the north eastern regions of Lorraine and Champagne-Ardenne. On this date, the analogue terrestrial television services of TF1, France 2, France 3, France 5, ARTE, Canal+, and M6 will be switched off.
:: 01/07/2009
Hungary - Two new HD services join the DTT platform
The free-to-air DTT platform, MinDig TV, will make two new HD services available from the public service broadcaster Hungarian Television (MTV). The services, m1 and m2, will join the DTT platform on 1 July.
:: 29/06/2009
Belgium - Norkring allocated license to launch DTT services
The Flemish broadcast regulator, Vlaamse Regulator voor de Media, has issued a license to broadcast DTT services to Norkring which had been the only license applicant.
:: 29/06/2009
United Kingdom - 9.8 million DTT households
According to the latest research published by Ofcom, 3.4 million DTT receivers were sold in the first quarter of 2009 representing an increase of 7% compared with the first quarter of 2008.
:: 29/06/2009
France - Proposal for two-phased launch of mobile TV services
A proposal to launch mobile television services in two phases has been formally presented to the government. Plans to launch mobile television services had been at an impasse due to disagreement regarding the financing of the network.
:: 29/06/2009
Poland - DTT roll-out expected to cost €100 million
The broadcast network operator TP Emitel has estimated that it will invest €100 million for the deployment of DTT services in the next 5-7 years.
:: 27/06/2009
Spain - ASO completed in Cantabria
Analogue switch-off is officially underway. At midnight on 27 June, analogue terrestrial services were switched off in the western part of the region of Cantabria.
:: 26/06/2009
France - CSA opens two consultations on DTT platform
The CSA has launched two public consultations regarding services on the DTT platform. These consultations are open until September.
:: 26/06/2009
Italy - Tivù Sat to launch on 31 July
The free-to-view satellite platform Tivù Sat is expected to launch on 31 July. The broadcasters RAI and Mediaset each own 48% of the platform while the remaining 4% is held by Telecom Italia Media.
:: 24/06/2009
Greece - DTT platform set up by commercial broadcasters
The seven leading national commercial broadcasters have jointly set up an operator to manage their DTT platform. The new operator, DIGEA, will provide broadcast network and multiplexing services.
:: 24/06/2009
Russia - Access to 8 free-to-air DTT services guaranteed
A decree signed by the President Medvedev guarantees that all viewers across the country will be able to access eight free-to-air television programme services and three radio services from a single multiplex once digital switchover is completed.
:: 24/06/2009
United Kingdom - HD/DTT service launch comfirmed for 2 December
According to Graham Plumb, HD services on the DTT platform are set to launch on 2 Decmeber from the Winter Hill transmitter serving viewers in Manchester and Liverpool.
:: 23/06/2009
France - Fransat officially launches
The free-to-air satellite service Fransat has officially launched. It offers viewers with access to the same service line up as is available on the DTT platform.
:: 22/06/2009
Bulgaria - Hannu Pro awarded DTT license
The Communications Regulation Commission (CRC) has awarded Hannu Pro a 15 year license to operate three DTT networks. Six companies had applied for this license although all but two had been disqualified by the regulator.
:: 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
NorDig releases its DVB-T2 requirements
NorDig has specified the minimum requirements for receivers that can access NorDig compliant signals based on the DVB-T2 specification.
:: 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
Impulsa TDT has published its latest figures for the DTT platform. At the end of May, DTT penetration stood at 58.7%. DTT penetration is highest in the region of Madrid, followed by the region of Catalunya.
:: 08/06/2009
Latvia - LVRTC opens tender for DTT transmission equipment
The broadcast network operator LVRTC is inviting manufacturers to tender for the provision of equipment to allow for the roll-out of the DTT network. DTT services are expected to launch by the end of July 2009.
:: 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