Archives
:: 24/07/2008
Ireland - DTT trial ends on 1 August
The government has announced that its DTT trial will officially end on 1 August. The trial had been launched in August 2006.
:: 24/07/2008
Ireland - Official adoption of MPEG-4 AVC
The Minister of Communications, Eamon Ryan has officially announced that the MPEG-4 AVC compression format will be used for the DTT platform in Ireland.
:: 24/07/2008
Spain - ASO completed in Soria
The region of Soria became the first region in Spain to complete digital switchover. The analogue terrestrial platform was switched off on 23 July and affects 51,000 inhabitants.
:: 23/07/2008
Lithuania - 6600 DTT subscribers
The incumbent telecom and broadcast network operator TEO has announced it has 6600 subscribers to its GALA DVB-T service.
:: 23/07/2008
France - Parliament recommends dividend for broadcasters
The Parliamentary commission examining the use of the digital dividend available after the completion of digital switchover has submitted its recommendations to the Prime Minister.
:: 23/07/2008
the Netherlands - Number of DTT households increases
The pay-DTV service provider, KPN, has announced that it had 636,000 subscribers at the end of June compared with 553,000 subscribers at the end of March.
:: 22/07/2008
France - First ASO trial begins
The first analogue switch-off trial is set to begin in Coulommiers and its surrounding area. The trial should be completed by early 2009 and analogue services switched off.
:: 22/07/2008
Poland - DVB-T tender expected in September
It can be expected that candidates will be invited to tender for the operation of a DVB-T multiplex and a DVB-H multiplex this year.
:: 22/07/2008
Italy - 8.6 million DTT receivers sold
Since the beginning of the year, 1.4 million DTT receivers have been sold. This brings DTT receiver sales to 8.6 million since the launch of DTT services in 2004.
:: 21/07/2008
Ireland - Boxer awarded pay-DTT license
Boxer DTT Ltd, jointly owned by the Swedish pay-DTT service operator Boxer and the Irish media company Communicorp, has been awarded a 12-year license to operate the pay-DTT platform.
:: 17/07/2008
Australia - Freeview marketing to begin prior to Jan 2009 launch
Marketing for the Australian "Freeview" platform will begin in the next few months. The official platform will launch in January 2009.
:: 17/07/2008
Norway - HD/DTT services for the Olympics
Public service broadcaster NRK plans to provide coverage of the forthcoming Olympic Games in high-definition.
:: 17/07/2008
Poland - TVP has strong interest in DTT platform
The public service broadcaster TVP has signalled its intention to become a leader on the DTT platform. It plans on submitting a bid to operate the second DTT multiplex.
:: 17/07/2008
The communications regulator AgCom has published its annual report which states that 54.3% of households receive digital television services.
:: 17/07/2008
Portugal - Airplus challenges decision on pay-DTT license allocation
Airplus TV has confirmed that it will appeal the preliminary decision to award the pay-DTT license to Portugal Telecom (PT).
:: 16/07/2008
Poland - DVB-H service launch expected in early 2009
It is expected that regulators will invite candidates to tender for DVB-H licenses by the end of the month. This follows from the successful conclusion of frequency usage negotiations with Russia.
:: 14/07/2008
Russia - Government expected to supply DTT receivers to low-income viewers
Government plans for digital switchover are expected to be published by the end of the year.
:: 13/07/2008
Spain - Nearly 11 million DTT receivers sold
In the first five months of the year, 2.7 million DTT receivers were sold, representing 24.7% of all DTT receivers sold since the launch of services.
:: 11/07/2008
United Kingdom - 9.6 million DTT households
The latest figures published by Ofcom show that 87.1% of television households access digital TV services on at least one TV set at the end of March 2008.
:: 10/07/2008
United States - Survey shows 64% terrestrial TV households ready for ASO
A survey conducted between 29 March and 13 May with 5,535 terrestrially dependent households showed that 64% have already taken steps to prepare for analogue switch-off on 17 February 2009.
:: 10/07/2008
Poland - DVB-H delay due to frequency negotiations
The tendering of DVB-H licenses has been delayed due to protracted negotiations with neighbouring countries.
:: 10/07/2008
Spain - RTVE to launch HD service
The public service broadcaster RTVE is preparing to launch two new services in 2010 when analogue switch-off is completed. At this time, RTVE will have 2 DTT multiplexes available for its services.
:: 09/07/2008
Norway - HD-capable MPEG-4 AVC PVR approved for sale
The DTT platform operator Norges Televisjon (NTV) has approved the first PVR-enabled DTT receiver for use in the Norwegian market.
:: 08/07/2008
United Kingdom - Stores with tick provide better DSO information
Research conducted by GfK NOP show that independent retailers who have completed training on digital switchover provide better service to customer enquiring about TV than other retailers.
:: 08/07/2008
France - Gulli launch the Gullibox
The children' service Gulli, available on the DTT platform, is teaming up with the manufacturer Metronic to launch a customised DTT set-top box, the Gullibox.
:: 08/07/2008
Portugal - PT likely to receive license to operate Multiplex A
Anacom has approved the project presented by Portugal Telecom (PT) for the operation of Multiplex A. This multiplex will carry national free-to-air services.
:: 07/07/2008
Spain - Impulsa TDT warns about communal antenna conversions
Impulsa TDT has warned that only half of buildings with communal antennas have been adapted to receiver DTT services. Progess will be necessary in order to reach the 3 April 2010 analogue switch-off date.
:: 06/07/2008
Hong Kong - 2nd phase of DTT roll-out in August
DTT coverage will be expanded in early August to reach 75% of the population.
:: 06/07/2008
Czech Republic - Barrandov TV to launch in January
The television service Barrandov TV will launch on the DTT platform on 11 January 2009. It had previously been expected to launch this summer.
:: 04/07/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom invites multiplex operators to renew licenses
Ofcom has invited the operators of Multiplex A and Multiplex 2 to apply for the renewal of their multiplex licenses. The renewal license will be valid for a 12 year period.
:: 04/07/2008
Estonia - Starman takes full ownership of DTT platform
The pay-DTT platform ZUUMtv is set to become fully owned by cable operator Starman. It had previously been jointly owned by Starman and the network operator Levira.
:: 04/07/2008
France - Plans underway for DTT services in overseas territories
DTT services will launch in the French overseas territories in early 2010. All services will be available using the MPEG-4 AVC compression format.
:: 03/07/2008
Italy - Samsung qualifies for 'bollino bianco'
Samsung has announced that it will sell its iDTVs bundled with SmarDTV's SmarCAM and a Mediaset smart card. Products will be available in early July.
:: 03/07/2008
United Kingdom - Freeview Playback rebrands as Freeview+
Freeview+ will be the new name for DTT products with integrated recording capabilities. Freeview+ replaces Freeview Playback.
:: 03/07/2008
Slovakia - MPEG-4 AVC for DTT platform
According to Broadband TV News, the Slovak Telecom Office (TU SR) has recommended the use of the MPEG-4 AVC compression format for the DTT platform.
:: 02/07/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom invites candidates to tender for MUX B capacity
The communications regulator Ofcom is inviting candidates to tender for licenses on multiplex B. This multiplex will offer HD services using the DVB-T2 specification.
:: 02/07/2008
Spain - Impulsa TDT donates 1000 set-top boxes
Impulsa TDT, the DTT promotions organisation, will distribute 1000 set-top boxes to low-income families in the region of Soria.
:: 02/07/2008
Norway - NTV appeals regulatory decision
The DTT platform operator NTV is appealing the regulatory decision calling for it to make more capacity available its DTT multiplexes to rival operators.
:: 02/07/2008
Czech Republic - CT calls off DTT network tender
According to Broadband TV News, the public service broadcaster CT has called off a tender for the provision of a new DTT network.
:: 02/07/2008
Spain - Telecinco softens pay-DTT stance
Commercial broadcaster Telecinco has softened its position on pay-DTT services. This follows from the government's request that broadcasters present their views on the possible launch of pay-DTT services.
:: 01/07/2008
United Kingdom - West Country switch-off dates announced
Digital UK, the organisation leading digital switchover, has announced the dates for analogue switch-off in Cornwall and parts of Devon.
:: 01/07/2008
Italy - Government wants to complete ASO by 2010
The European Commission (EC) has requested further information from the government regarding the distribution of frequencies on the DTT platform.
:: 01/07/2008
Germany - DTT coverage extended
DTT coverage has been expanded to include the central Lander of Sachsen-Anhalt and Thüringen. An additional 8.9 million viewers can now receive DTT services.
:: 01/07/2008
Lithuania - TEO expands DTT coverage
TEO, the provider of pay-DTT services, has expanded its coverage to 95% of the population. Previously, services had been available to 75% of the population.
:: 01/07/2008
Spain - DTT ad revenue to rise
According to a report published by ZenithMedia, the DTT platform will not be affected by the current economic downturn. Rather, new media, which includes the Internet and DTT, will see a 20% increase in their advertising revenue.
:: 01/07/2008
Ireland - ComReg publishes spectrum strategy report
The regulator ComReg has issued its Spectrum Management Strategy Statement: 2008 - 2010. The document is the result of a consultation held earlier in the year.
:: 01/07/2008
Portugal - PT favoured for DTT license
Anacom has announced the results of its evaluation of applications to operate the commecial DTT platform. Two bidders, Portugal Telecom (PT) and Airplus TV, are vying for a license to operate 5 DTT multiplexes.
:: 30/06/2008
DVB approves DVB-T2 specification
The DVB Steering Board has ratified and published the specification for second generation transmission system for DTT services (DVB-T2).
:: 30/06/2008
Italy - 25 applicants for 12 DTT licenses
The communications regulator AgCom has received 25 applications for the provision of DTT services from 17 media groups. A total of 12 television programme slots are available.
:: 29/06/2008
Germany - DTT services in racetracks
Two racetracks, the Norisring near Nuernberg and the Nuerburgring in the Eiffel region, have each received a DTT license to provide live coverage of their events.
:: 27/06/2008
United Kingdom - BBC begins DVB-T2 trial
The public service broadcaster BBC has begun a trial of the DVB-T2 specification. The specification was approved by the DVB Steering Board at its meeting on 26 June.
:: 26/06/2008
United Kingdom - Government criticized for allowing analogue TV sales
The parliamentary Committee of Public Accounts has issued a report on digital switchover which criticizes the government for allowing the sale of analogue television sets.
:: 25/06/2008
Poland - Cyfrowy Polsat interest in DTT multiplex operation
The satellite operator Cyfrowy Polsat has announced that it may apply for the license to operate one DTT multiplex. Two DTT multiplexes are expected to be launched.
:: 25/06/2008
Spain - AETIC to test interactive services for DTT platform
The Association of Electronic, Telecommunications and Information Technologies (AETIC) has presented its plans to test interactive services on the DTT platform.
:: 25/06/2008
According to a report issued by the National Association of Commercial Broadcasters (NAB), 43.3% of households are equipped to receive DTT services.
:: 24/06/2008
Spain - Government preparing law on mobile TV
The government has announced that it is preparing a law to allow for the introduction of mobile television services.
:: 24/06/2008
The broadcast regulator CSA has announced the 39 sites where DTT services will be launched. Services are expected to begin on 30 June.
:: 24/06/2008
Italy - Planning for ASO underway
The Ministry for Economic Development is expected to present its digital switchover plan by 9 September 2008.
:: 22/06/2008
Digital TV Labs ships EVORA MPEG-4 test suite
Digital TV Labs, digital television testing specialists, has made available the first MPEG-4 AVC test suite.
:: 22/06/2008
ASEAN countries agree to common DTV formats
ASEAN countries have agreed to use a common set of technical specifications for digital television.
:: 19/06/2008
Estonia - Government encourages free-to-air DTT platform
The government is encouraging the two commercial broadcaster on the analogue terrestrial platform, TV3 and Kanal 2, to join the free-to-air DTT platform.
:: 18/06/2008
Ireland - ComReg opens consultation on UHF spectrum
The communications regulator ComReg has opened a public consultation on the award of UHF frequencies in the cities of Cork, Dublin, Galway, Limerick and Waterford.
:: 18/06/2008
Croatia - HRT to launch new services on DTT platform
Public service broadcaster HRT has announced plans to launch 7 new services on the DTT platform.
:: 17/06/2008
Poland - DTT services nearing launch
The Office of Electronic Communications (UKE) and National Broadcasting Council (KRRiT) have announced their plans for DTT services.
:: 17/06/2008
According to Broadband TV News, Romania could tender DTT licenses in 2009. Up to 8 multiplexes will be available for DTT services.
:: 16/06/2008
Spain - Government calls for improved content on DTT platform
The government has made it known that it finds the current quality of content on the DTT platform to be insufficient.
:: 13/06/2008
Slovenia - Government prepares to tender DTT multiplex
Slovenia is expected to issue an invitation to tender for a DTT multiplex license. One DTT multiplex is already available and managed by the public service broadcaster RTV SLO.
:: 13/06/2008
Via Licensing drops MHP licensing fees for FTA broadcasters
Free-to-air broadcasters will not be required to pay MHP license fees. This decision was made by Via Licensing, which represents MHP patent pool members, and communicated to the DVB Project.
:: 11/06/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom to license 'white spaces'
The broadcast regulator Ofcom has published its proposal for awarding licenses to use 'white spaces' that exist between television transmitters. These 'white spaces' can be used to provide low-power services.
:: 11/06/2008
Singapore - Launch of Singapore Digital joint venture
The network operator Broadcast Australia and PGK Media have formed a joint venture, Singapore Digital, that will take over the operation and management of the
DVB-H trial in Singapore.
:: 11/06/2008
Poland - HD Olympics on DTTplatform
The public service broadcaster TVP has announced plans to broadcast the upcoming Olympics Games in high-definition on the DTT platform.
:: 11/06/2008
Japan - Government may provide STBs to needy
A Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications commission has recommended providing support for digital switchover to low income households.
:: 10/06/2008
Morocco - 100k DTT receivers sold
Since the launch of DTT services last March, only 100,000 receivers have been sold. Coverage is available to 77% of the population.
:: 10/06/2008
France - Canal+ allocated HD/DTT license
The pay-DTT television service Canal+ will be available in high-definition and replace the existing standard-definition service.
:: 10/06/2008
Spain and Italy sign DTT cooperation agreement
The DTT organisations in Spain and Italy, Impulsa TDT and DGTVi, have signed a cooperation agreement. The organisations seek to promote digital switchover.
:: 09/06/2008
Spain - PSB popular on DTT platform
The DTT services provided by the public service broadcaster RTVE are proving popular with viewers.
:: 09/06/2008
Austria - DVB-H services launched
DVB-H services have been launched by Media Broadcast and the four main mobile telecom operators, Hutchison, 3G Austria, ONE and mobilkom austria.
:: 09/06/2008
Czech Republic - DTV accessed in 24% of households
According to Mediaresearch, 24.1% of television households access digital television services by the end of March 2008.
:: 08/06/2008
Spain - Digital dividend reserved for broadcasters
The Ministry of Industry has revealed that it is unlikely that spectrum will be available for non-broadcast services following analogue switch-off.
:: 06/06/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom issues proposals for digital dividend allocation
Communications regulator Ofcom has published its proposals for the allocation of the digital dividend. It seeks to promote competition and innovation and allow the widest range of technologies and services to access the spectrum.
:: 06/06/2008
Italy - 3 Italia offers free DVB-H services to customers
DVB-H service provider 3 Italia is offering free mobile television services to its customers.
:: 05/06/2008
Sweden - EC withdraws ECJ case
The European Commission (EC) withdrawn its case against Sweden at the European Court of Justice following amendments made to Swedish broadcast regulation.
:: 05/06/2008
Australia - Government opens consultation on DSO legal framework
The Department of Communications has opened a consultation on digital switchover. It is proposing changes to the current legislative framework to allow for a more flexible approach to digital switchover.
:: 04/06/2008
Poland - Possibility for HD/DTT services
Representatives of the communications regulators KRRiT and UKE have called for the launch of HD services on the DTT platform.
:: 03/06/2008
Poland - DVB-H license tender delayed
The Office of Electronic Communications (UKE) has delayed its invitation to tender for mobile television licenses. The invitation is expected to be issued at the end of June.
:: 02/06/2008
Germany - DVB-H services launched
Pre-commercial DVB-H services have been launched in the cities of Hamburg, Munich, Frankfurt and Hanover. The service is operated by Mobile 3.0 which has been allocated a national license to operate DVB-H services.
:: 02/06/2008
Portugal - Airplus presents its pay-DTT plans
Plans for the pay-DTT platform in Portugal have become more concrete following the presentation by Airplus TV, one of the two candidates vying operate the service.
:: 01/06/2008
Spain - 88% population coverage by August
According to the broadcast network operator Abertis Telecom, DTT services will reach 88% of the population by August 2008. Currently, DTT services are available to 86% of the population.
:: 01/06/2008
Austria - DVB-H services announced
3G Austria has announced its DVB-H service offering. Services will be freely available until the end of the year and thereafter available for a cost of €6 per month.
:: 30/05/2008
the Netherlands - Launch of DVB-H services on 5 June
The network (telecom and broadcast) operator KPN has announced that it will launch its DVB-H service, MobileTV, on 5 June.
:: 30/05/2008
Spain - Retailers must inform about digital ready TV sets
Retailers are required to inform consumers if they are purchasing television sets unable to receive DTT services.
:: 29/05/2008
Italy - Rete 4 refused right to retain analogue frequencies
The Parliament has blocked a decree that would have allowed Mediaset channel Rete 4 to keep its analogue frequencies. The government, led by Silvio Berlusconi, had proposed the decree following a recent decision by the European Court of Justice (ECJ).
:: 29/05/2008
Spain - DTT subsidies unlikely
The Secretariat of State for Telecommunications and the Information Society (SETSI) has stated that it will not make subsidies available for the purchase of DTT receivers or antennas.
:: 29/05/2008
Italy - Launch of Disney Channel on pay-DTT platform
Disney has announced that it will make its cornerstone service, The Disney Channel, available on the DTT platform. It will be offered by Mediaset on its pay-DTT platform Premium Gallery.
:: 29/05/2008
Czech Republic - DVB-T2 plans for 2013
The broadcast network operator Ceske Radiokomunikace (CRa) has announced plans to switch to the DVB-T2 specification in 2013.
:: 29/05/2008
Spain - Disney confirmed on free-to-air DTT platform
Disney has confirmed that it will make one of its service, The Disney Channel, available on the free-to-air DTT platform. The broadcast is set to begin on 1 July.
:: 27/05/2008
France - CSA announces services for DVB-H platform
The CSA has announced the 13 television services which will receive licenses to broadcast on the DVB-H platform. A total of 32 candidates had applied for the 13 available slots.
:: 27/05/2008
France - Coulommiers to lead switchover
The CSA has announced that the city of Coulommiers will trial analogue switch-off. The trial will begin with the launch of DTT services in Autumn 2008 and end with analogue switch-off in Spring 2009.
:: 26/05/2008
Ireland - Access services tested on DTT platform
The public service broadcaster RTE is undertaking a trial of access services as part of the ongoing DTT pilot.
:: 26/05/2008
France - DTT penetration reaches 26%
The latest figures published by the network operator TDF show that an increasing number of households are adopting digital services.
:: 26/05/2008
Italy - Over 8 million DTT receivers sold
According to the latest figures published by GfK, a total of 8,069,889 DTT receivers had been sold in Italy by the end of March 2008.
:: 25/05/2008
Poland - DVB-H trial in Krakow
The network operator TP EmiTel has launched a DVB-H trial in Krakow in partnership with telecom operators Centertel, Polkomtel, PTC and T4.
:: 25/05/2008
Italy - Studio Universal may join DTT platform
Spectulation has emerged that Studio Universal may join the DTT platform. This follows from its eviction from the satellite platform operated by Sky Italia.
:: 25/05/2008
Hong Kong - More HD/DTT services to be available
Commercial broadcaster TVB has announced plans to increase HD content available on the DTT platform. As of June, two new HD services will be made available.
:: 25/05/2008
Spain - Free-to-air Disney services?
Disney may make its flagship service, Disney Channel, available on the free-to-air DTT platform. This follows from an agreement between Disney and the Vocento group.
:: 23/05/2008
United States - GAO reports broadcasters ready for DTV
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has issued a positive report on the status of digital switchover in the United States. According to the report, a majority of broadcasters are prepared for the February 2009 analogue switch-off.
:: 23/05/2008
Taiwan - Launch of HD/DTT service
The public service broadcaster PTS has announced the launch of a trial HD service on the terrestrial platform. The pilot began on 16 May and is expected to last one year.
:: 22/05/2008
Poland - New DVB-H trial in Krakow
The network operator TP EmiTel has launched a DVB-H trial in the city of Krakow. Four mobile operators are also participating in the trial, including Centertel, Polkomtel, PTC and T4.
:: 22/05/2008
Italy - Government nixes partial ASO in 2009
The new centre-right government has put forward a proposal to allow the commercial broadcaster Mediaset to keep its analogue frequencies until analogue switch-off is completed in 2012.
:: 22/05/2008
Spain - Government confirms 2010 switch-off
The new Minister of Industry, Miguel Sebastian, has confirmed the current digital switchover plans for Spain. According to the minister, analogue switch-off will take place, as planned on 3 April 2010.
:: 21/05/2008
Morocco - Launch of DVB-H services
DVB-H services have been launched in the region of Rabat / Casablanca. Further service roll-out is expected by the end of the year in major urban centres.
:: 21/05/2008
France - Canal+ tenders for pay-DTT HD license
Canal+ is the only broadcaster on the pay-DTT platform to apply for the one HD license currently available on the pay terrestrial platform.
:: 20/05/2008
France - TV Numeric unveils pay-DTT plans
Pay-DTT operator TV Numeric has formally launched its services following a soft-launch last September. TV Numeric offers 7 pay-DTT services for €8 per month in addition to €5 for rental of the set-top box.
:: 19/05/2008
France - Launch of new DTT sites
The CSA has announced which zones will launch DTT services by 30 June 2008. A total of 25 sites will be launched.
:: 16/05/2008
Portugal - RTP to reduce DTT transmission costs
The public service broadcaster RTP has divulged its agreement with Portugal Telecom (PT) regarding its terrestrial television transmission costs.
:: 16/05/2008
Czech Republic - New service to launch on DTT platform
A continuous news service, Z1, is expected to launch on the DTT platform on 1 June. The service will be available in the cities of Prague, Brno, Ostrava and Plzen.
:: 16/05/2008
United Kingdom - Qualcomm wins L-band auction
OFCOM has announced that the license to use the entire L-band (1452-1492 MHz) has been awarded to Qualcomm following its win of the spectrum auction.
:: 15/05/2008
France - DTT services in Cahors
DTT services are available in the city of Cahors, in the southwestern part of the country, since 15 May.
:: 15/05/2008
bmco calls for mobile TV regulatory regimes to be put in place
The Broadcast Mobile Convergence Forum (bmco) has published a study on the status of national licensing frameworks for terrestrial mobile television services.
:: 14/05/2008
Ireland - Government proposes new broadcast legislation
A new Broadcasting Bill has been proposed that seeks to consolidate the broadcasting legislation of the past 50 years.
:: 14/05/2008
United Kingdom - Digital UK launches guide for local government
Digital UK has launched an online guide and checklist to help local governments prepare for digital switchover.
:: 14/05/2008
Poland - POT interested in DVB-H
The DTT consortium POT is considering to bid for a DVB-H license. Members of POT include the commercial broadcasters Polsat and TVN.
:: 14/05/2008
Spain - DTT penetration reaches 31.8%
According to the latest information published by Impulsa TDT, 31.85% of households access DTT services.
:: 13/05/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom to assess Picnic TV as part of pay-TV investigation
Ofcom has decided to include the BSkyB and National Grid Wireless (NGW) proposal for pay-DTT services as part of its market investigation of the pay-TV sector.
:: 13/05/2008
Italy - Premium boosts Mediaset's quarterly earnings
Mediaset has announced its earnings for the first quarter of 2008 which show an net revenue growth of 13.9% compared with the first quarter of 2007.
:: 12/05/2008
Sweden - TV4 Sport launches on DTT platform
The sport service TV4 Sport has launched on the DTT platform operated by Boxer. The service is available on Multiplex 5, which offers 70% household coverage.
:: 11/05/2008
Spain - 90% of TVs sold with digital tuner
According to AETIC, the association representing the communication industry, a total of 90% of television sets sold are integrated with a digital tuner.
:: 08/05/2008
United States - Wilmington to trial ASO
Wilmington, North Carolina will the be first city to complete analogue switch-off in the United States. It will participate in an analogue switch off pilot on 8 September 2008.
:: 07/05/2008
United Kingdom - Launch of Freesat
The free-to-air satellite service offered jointly by the BBC and ITV has officially been launched. The platform offers 80 television programme services, expected to increase to over 200 by the end of the year. Some services are in high-definition.
:: 06/05/2008
Estonia - Launch of DVB-H trial
The broadcast network operator Levira has launched a DVB-H trial with the telecom operator EMT. Services are available in Tallin.
:: 06/05/2008
Czech Republic - Possibility for DVB-H license tender
Broadband TV News reports that a tender for a DVB-H license could be issued this summer.
:: 06/05/2008
Spain - UTECA calls on PSBs to limit ads
The Associated Commercial Televisions Union (UTECA) together with other media associations are calling for public service broadcasters to progressively reduce their advertisements in the lead up to digital switchover.
:: 06/05/2008
CITEL includes DVB-T/H in implementation guide
The Inter-American Telecommunication Commission (CITEL) has decided to include DVB-T and DVB-H as official standards within the CITEL implementation guidelines.
:: 05/05/2008
Azerbaijan - DTT services to begin in 2008
DTT services are expected to be launched in the second half of 2008 in the cities of Baku and Ganca. Upgrades to transmission equipment are currently underway.
:: 05/05/2008
Kenya - Launch of DVB-H services
The telecom operator Safaricom, together with DStv Mobile, has launched DVB-H services in the city of Nairobi. Services will be formally launched on 1 June.
:: 02/05/2008
Ireland - Three candidates for DTT license
The Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) has announced that three groups have applied for licenses to operate the commercial DTT multiplexes available.
:: 01/05/2008
the Netherlands - DVB-H services to launch by June
KPN board member Baptiest Coopmans has announced that the company will launch DVB-H services in time for the UEFA EURO 2008 Football Championship.
:: 01/05/2008
Australia - Preparations underway for ASO
The Australian government is expected to publish the timetable for analogue switch-off by the end of the year. Analogue switch-off is expected to be completed by 2013.
:: 01/05/2008
the Netherlands - Trial of low-power DVB-T broadcasting
The communications regulator Agentschap Telecom given OLAN, the association of Dutch local public broadcasters, approval to run technical trials of DVB-T services using using low-power transmitters to provide local digital services.
:: 30/04/2008
Czech Republic - ASO confirmed for 2011
The Czech government has approved the digital switchover plan published by the regulator Cesky Telekomunikacni(CTU). The plan calls for the completion of digital switchover by 11 November 2011.
:: 29/04/2008
Germany - DVB-T mobile phones launched
Telecom operators Vodafone and T-Mobile have will launch new mobile telephones that can receive DVB-T services. The devices will be provided by LG.
:: 29/04/2008
Czech Republic - Prima TV available in Brno
Commercial broadcaster Prima TV has announced plans to roll-out its DTT service to the city of Brno. Services are expected to be available in the second half of May.
:: 29/04/2008
the Netherlands - 10% growth in pay-DTT subscribers
The DTT (and telecom) operator KPN has announced that it had 553,000 television subscribers at the end of March.
:: 28/04/2008
Portugal Telecom (PT) has divulged its plans for DTT services should it be awarded the right to operate DTT services.
:: 25/04/2008
United Kingdom - Digital UK to support retailers
Digital UK has announced new measures to provide support to retailers as they help consumers prepare for analogue switch-off.
:: 25/04/2008
United Kingdom - Freesat launch set for May
Freesat, the free-to-air satellite service modelled on Freeview, is set to launch in early May. It is a joint venture between BBC and ITV.
:: 25/04/2008
France - 17.4 million DTT receivers in homes
According to the latest data from GfK, 17.4 million DTT receivers are now in French television households. This represents a penetration of 37%.
:: 25/04/2008
United Kingdom - Digital UK publishes results of ASO in Whitehaven
Digital UK has published a report with its assessment of digital switchover that took place in Whitehaven at the end of last year.
:: 25/04/2008
Portugal - Two bids received for commercial DTT services
The communications regulator Anacom has announced that it has received two bids for the available DTT licenses.
:: 24/04/2008
Hungary - 2 bidders for DTT license
The National Communications Authority of Hungary (NHH) has announced that it received two bids for its DTT licenses. The license allows for the operation of 5 DTT multiplexes.
:: 24/04/2008
France - Broadcasters want quick ASO
Broadcasters on the terrestrial television platform have called on the government to speed up the digital switchover process. Broadcasters include: TF1, France 2, France 3, Canal Plus, France 5, Arte France and M6.
:: 24/04/2008
Germany - Delay in roll-out of DVB-H services
The DVB-H service provider, Mobile 3.0, has announced that the roll-out of DVB-H services will be slower than initially planned.
:: 22/04/2008
United Kingdom - O2 drops out of L-band auction
Telecom operator O2 has pulled out of the upcoming L-Band (1452-1492 MHz) spectrum auction. It had initially been one of the nine potential bidders.
:: 22/04/2008
Belgium - Interest in VRT transmission network
Plans for VRT, the public service broadcaster for the Flemish-speaking community, to sell its transmission network have started to take shape. Media reports have stated that five companies have expressed interest in buying the network.
:: 21/04/2008
United Kingdom - Strong sale of flat-panel displays
According to the latest research published by GfK, nearly 3 million flat-panel displays were sold in the three months to the end of February. This is an increase of 500,000 compared with the same period last year.
:: 21/04/2008
Italy - AgCom to tender new DTT licenses
AgCom, the communications regulator, will invite candidates to tender for available capacity on several DTT multiplexes. Approximately 40% of capacity on the multiplexes operated by RAI, Mediaset and La7 will be available to new broadcasters.
:: 20/04/2008
United Kingdom - Nine bidders for L-Band frequencies
Ofcom has published the list of qualified bidders for spectrum in the L-Band (1452-1492 MHz). Ofcom is making available 15 channels sized at 1.7MHz and 1 channel sized at 12.5MHz.
:: 18/04/2008
Switzerland - DVB-H launch set for 13 May
Swisscom has announced that it will launch its DVB-H services on 13 May. Viewers will be able to access 20 television programme services for 16 CHF per month or 2 CHF per day.
:: 18/04/2008
Portugal - PT and Media Capital interest in DTT licenses
Portugal Telecom and Media Capital are thought to be in discussions to launch a joint bid for DTT multiplex licenses. Candidates have until 22 April to submit their bids.
:: 18/04/2008
United Kingdom - West Country to begin ASO in April 2009
Digital UK has announced that the West Country TV region will begin analogue switch-off on 8 April 2009. At this date, analogue transmissions from the Beacon Hill transmitter group will end.
:: 17/04/2008
France - Ad-spending grows on DTT platform
Research from Yacast shows that the amount of money spend on advertisement on the DTT platform has grown. In the first quarter of 2008, ad-spending doubled compared with 2007.
:: 16/04/2008
France - CSA publishes synthesis of ASO consultation
Following its consultation on analogue switch-off, the CSA has published a synthesis of the 80 responses received. Based on these responses, the CSA recommends that analogue switch-off begin in 2009.
:: 16/04/2008
Hungary - Pannon interested in DTT license
The mobile telecom operator Pannon is said to be interested in tendering for the available DTT license. The network operator Antenna Hungaría has also expressed its interest in the DTT license.
:: 11/04/2008
Italy - Freesat service discussions underway
Public service broadcaster RAI and commercial broadcaster Mediaset have begun discussions on making their DTT services available on the satellite platform.
:: 11/04/2008
Poland - TVP undertakes further DTT trials
The public service broadcaster TVP has begun a DTT trial in the Lubuskie region, near the border with Germany.
:: 10/04/2008
Italy - Development of HD/DTT guidelines
The DGTVi, the association for the development of DTT services, and the Italian HD Forum, have agreed to put together an Italian specification for HD services on the DTT platform.
:: 10/04/2008
United States - FCC fines retailers for selling analogue TV sets
The FCC has imposed fines on several retailers for selling television sets without a digital tuner. In preparation for analogue switch-off, retailers are legally obliged to sell television sets with a digital tuner.
:: 10/04/2008
Australia - ASO confirmed for 2013
Communications Minister Stephen Conroy has confirmed plans to complete digital switchover by 2013. Approximately 40% of households access digital television services.
:: 09/04/2008
Australia - ACMA publish DTV report
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has published key findings on the adoption of digital television market in its Digital television in Australian homes 2007 report .
:: 09/04/2008
Czech Republic - Z1 to launch on DTT platform
The broadcaster Z1 has received its DTT license from the Broadcasting Council RRTV. It is expected to launch services within the next two months.
:: 09/04/2008
Austria - ORS to support DVB-H roll-out
Media Broadcast, which holds the license to operate the DVB-H platform, has formed an agreement with the network operator ORS for the prompt roll-out of mobile television services.
:: 09/04/2008
Taiwan - Broadcasters seeks mobile TV cooperation
Four of the five broadcasters trialling mobile television services have proposed working together in the operation of a mobile television platform. This proposal has been made directly to the National Communications Commission (NCC).
:: 08/04/2008
Spain - Mediapro plans pay-DTT service
The content provider Mediapro has announced plans to launch a pay-per-view football service to be launched on various television delivery platforms, including the DTT platform.
:: 07/04/2008
Italy - Euro 2008 available on HD/DTT
Public service broadcaster RAI has announced plans to transmit the Euro 2008 Football Championship in high-definition on the DTT platform in the regions of Valle d'Aoste and Sardinia as well as the cities of Rome, Milan and Turin.
:: 07/04/2008
France - New service provider for pay-DTT platform
The service provider Vest@vision will market DTT pay services, TNTop, startiing in mid May. TNTop will offer viewers access to 7 pay-DTT services (Eurosport, Planete, LCI, Canal-j, Paris Premiere and AB1) for €8 per month, in addition to access to the existing free-to-air services.
:: 07/04/2008
Estonia - ASO to take place in 2010
Following the approval of a draft amendment to the Broadcasting Act, analogue switch-off is set to take place in June 2010. This is 18 months earlier than previously announced.
:: 06/04/2008
Spain - 9 million DTT receivers sold
According to information published by Impulsa TDT, 9 million DTT receivers have been sold in Spain. Viewership on the DTT platform represents 12% of all television households.
:: 04/04/2008
Ireland - Joint bid for 3 DTT multiplexes
A consortium comprising the telcom operator Eircom and the broadcasters TV3 and Setanta Sports will bid for the three available commercial DTT multiplexes to be allocated by the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland.
:: 03/04/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom goes ahead with HD/DTT plans
Ofcom has confirmed its plans to launch HD services on the DTT platform without the allocation of further frequencies. This plan has been criticized by the Digital Television Group (DTG) industry association.
:: 03/04/2008
Australia - Launch of $40 million DTT ad campaign
Broadcasters providing free-to-air services on the DTT platform have announced plans to launch an AUS $40 million advertising campaign. The campaign is set to launch in the middle of May.
:: 02/04/2008
Spain - Satellie used to augment DTT coverage
In the autonomous region of Cantabria, satellite will be used to complement DTT coverage. Viewers outside of the DTT coverage area will be able to access the same services as on the DTT platformm using satellite.
:: 02/04/2008
United Kingdom - EC opens enquiry into DSO aid for Channel 4
The European Commission (EC) has officially opened an enquiry into the decision by UK authorities to grant aid to its public service broadcaster Channel 4. The EC will determine whether or not this aid violates EC state aid rules.
:: 31/03/2008
Licensing conditions for DVB-H underway
The establishment of the licensing conditions for DVB-H is underway under the aegis of Sisvel. The essential patent holders for DVB-H have agreed on key points and expect to issue final licensing terms this summer.
:: 30/03/2008
Sweden - Viasat allocated two DTT licenses
The broadcaster Viasat, part of the Modern Times Group (MTG), has been allocated two DTT licenses by the Radio & TV Authority (Radio-och TV Verket). These services will be available on a 6th DTT multiplex that will roll-out this year.
:: 29/03/2008
Austria - Launch of DTT services in new areas
The coverage area of DTT services will be extended on 31 March. Viewers in the regions of Oberösterreich, Salzburg, Steiermark, Niederösterreich and Tyrol will be able to access DTT services.
:: 28/03/2008
Portugal - New free-to-air service for DTT platform
Portugal is preparing to launch a fifth free-to-air television service that will be available on the DTT platform.
:: 27/03/2008
United Kingdom - 27 million DTT receivers sold
Since the launch of the Freeview platform in October 2002, 27 million DTT receivers have been sold. Of these 10.2 million were sold in 2007.
:: 27/03/2008
United Kingdom - Nearly 87% of households access DTV
The latest figures published by Ofcom show that 86.7% of households accessed digital television by the end of 2007. This is an increase of 1.6 percentage points compared with September 2007.
:: 27/03/2008
Spain - HD/DTT testing underway
The HD Forum is planning to undertake HD testing on the DTT platform. Both the 720p and 1080i formats will be tested.
:: 27/03/2008
Sweden - RRTV allocates new DTT licenses
The Swedish radio and television authority (RTVV) has announced that 8 national and 9 local television programme services have been allocated licenses for the DTT platform.
:: 27/03/2008
France - CSA invites candidates for local DTT services
The CSA is inviting broadcasters to tender for local DTT licenses in the regions of Bar-le-Duc, Epinal/Vittel, Privas, and Toulon/Hyčres.
:: 27/03/2008
Sweden - Boxer to convert towards MPEG-4 AVC
Boxer has announced plans to begin deploying DTT receivers with MPEG-4 AVC capabilities. This is part of its plans to migrate from the MPEG-2 to the MPEG-4 AVC compression format.
:: 27/03/2008
Denmark - Boxer allocated DTT license
The Radio and Television Board has allocated a commercial DTT license to Boxer, a pay-DTT service provider with operations currently in Sweden.
:: 26/03/2008
United Kingdom - SDN to make multiplex capacity available
The multiplex operator SDN will make available a capacity of 1 MB on Multiplex A. The capacity can be used for such digital services as data and radio transmissions.
:: 26/03/2008
Montenegro - DTT pilot set for 2008
Montenegro is preparing for digital switchover. Its broadcast regulator, ARD, has hired consultants to put together plans.
:: 25/03/2008
Hungary - NCAH invites candidates to tender for DTT license
The National Communications Authority of Hungary (NCAH)is making available one DTT license. The license is for the operation of 5 DTT multiplexes.
:: 24/03/2008
Spain - A Fonsagrada begins analogue switch-off
The town of A Fonsagrada will be the first to complete analogue switch-off in Spain. Switch-off has been set for 5 April 2008.
:: 21/03/2008
United States - $19 billion raised in spectrum auction
The FCC raised a total of $19.6 billion in its auction of frequencies in bands IV/V. A total of 1,090 licenses were sold, of which 80% were acquired by Verizon Wireless and AT&T.
:: 20/03/2008
Belgium - KPN interested in offering DTT services
The Dutch DTT service provider (and incumbent telecom operator) KPN has expressed interest in the Belgium DTT platform.
:: 20/03/2008
Poland - Plans to launch mobile TV by end of year
The President of the Office of Electronic Communications (OEC), Anna Strezynska, has confirmed plans to launch mobile television services by the end of the year.
:: 20/03/2008
Italy - RAI to launch RAI Quattro
Public service broadcaster RAI has announced plans to launch RAI Quattro. The new service will be available on the DTT and satellite platforms by the end of June.
:: 18/03/2008
Germany - 7.8 million DTT receivers sold
According to the Deutsche TV-Platform, 7.8 million DTT receivers have been sold since the launch of DTT services in November 2002.
:: 18/03/2008
Spain - Abertis buys stake in Teledifusión Madrid
Leading network operator Abertis has bought an 80% stake of the regional network operator Teledifusión Madrid.
:: 18/03/2008
Nine Network launched its high-definition service, Nine-HD, on 17 March. The new service will basically provide a simulcast of the existing Nine service with only 12 hours per week of different content.
:: 18/03/2008
New Zealand - DTT launch on 2 April
The free-to-air DTT platform, Freeview HD, will launch on 2 April. It aims to be available in over 50,000 homes by June 2009.
:: 17/03/2008
EC approves DVB-H in list of official standards
The European Commission (EC) has decided to add the DVB-H standard to the official EU List of Standards. Member States will be required to encourage the use of DVB-H.
:: 13/03/2008
United Kingdom - Ofcom to auction L-band frequencies in April
Communications regulator Ofcom has confirmed plans to auction radio frequencies 1452 - 1492 MHz band, the so-called "L-Band". These frequencies can be used for mobile television services as well as satellite radio.
:: 13/03/2008
Norway - Regulator calls for more DTT competition
The Post and Telecommunications Authority has taken issue with the plans by NTV to allocate its five DTT multiplexes that will be availble after analogue switch-off. NTV holds the license to operate 5 DTT networks.
:: 13/03/2008
Nokia to ship DVB-H enabled devices to all markets
In a presentation at DVB World, Nokia has announced that the DVB-H enabled multimedia device N96 will be shipped to all markets, regardless of the status of DVB-H services.
:: 12/03/2008
Italy - Mediaset reports strong results for pay-per-view service
In its 2007 results, commercial broadcaster Mediaset noted the excellent performance of its pay-per-view service Mediaset Premium. At the end of the year, the service had sold 2,067,000 rechargeable cards.
:: 12/03/2008
Spain - 8.8 million DTT receivers sold since March 2003
According to the latest figures published by Impulsa TDT, 29.2% of households access DTT services. DTT penetration is highest in Madrid, where DTT services are accessed by over 40% of households.
:: 11/03/2008
United Kingdom - 9.7 million DTT products sold in 2007
According to the latest figures published by GfK, 9.7 million Freeview branded products were sold in 2007. This includes both DTT receivers as well as Freeview Playback PVRs.
:: 11/03/2008
United Kingdom - Provisional approval of Arqiva/NGW merger
The UK Competition Commission has provisionally approved the acquisition of National Grid Wireless (NGW) by Arqiva following a detailed investigation.
:: 10/03/2008
Czech Republic - ASO delayed until 11 November 2011
The Czech Telecommunications Office, CTU, has issued its digital switchover plan (TTP).
The new plan delays analogue switch-off by one year to 11 November 2011.
:: 10/03/2008
France - Arte to launch in HD on DTT platform
The Franco-German cultural service Arte is set to launch in HD on the French free-to-air DTT platform. The launch is set for 30 October.
:: 08/03/2008
Germany - LfM appeals EC decision
The media regulator for the Land of NorthRhine Westphalia, LfM, has lodged an appeal against the European Commission (EC).
:: 08/03/2008
New Zealand - Services on DTT platform announced
The free-to-air DTT platform, named Freeview, will consist of 11 television and 2 radio programme services. The date for the launch, set for sometime in April, has not yet been announced.
:: 06/03/2008
United Kingdom - Hybrid DVR available from Tiscali
Internet service provider Tiscali UK is making a new digital video recorder service (DVR), Tiscali Plus, available to its customers.
:: 06/03/2008
France - DTT tuner mandation begins
All television sets sold in France must include an MPEG-2 DTT tuner as of 5 March 2008. The law "Télévision du Futur" set the requirement for the MPEG-2 tuner mandation.
:: 05/03/2008
Czech Republic - 12% DTV penetration
According to Mediaresearch, 12% of households accessed digital television services by the end of 2007. Half of these households relied on the DTT platform.
:: 05/03/2008
Australia - Broadcasters to promote DTT
In an attempt to promote DTT services, the leading terrestrial broadcasters are planning to form a "Freeview" consortium. This strategy coincides with the launch of new DTT services.
:: 05/03/2008
United States - FCC issues DSO education order
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued an order requiring pay-TV service operators, broadcasters, retailers and manufacturers to promote digital switchover awareness.
:: 05/03/2008
Brazil - Low take-up of DTT services
DTT services launched three months ago has had limited appeal with viewers. Only 10,000 households in the Greater Sao Paulo area have accessed DTT services.
:: 04/03/2008
Italy - Sardinia to complete ASO in Sept/Oct
The switch-off of the full analogue platform in Sardinia will take place between 1 September 1 and 30 October 2008. Originally, switch-off had been planned for March.
:: 04/03/2008
United Kingdom - Nine out of ten aware of DSO
New research published by Digital UK and OFCOM show that nine out of ten adults are aware of digital switchover. This compares with an awareness of 66% in May 2006.
:: 04/03/2008
Ireland - RTENL invests in DTT network
In anticipation of the launch of DTT services, the broadcast network operator RTENL has invested €120 million in the DTT network. RTENL is a subsidiary of the public service broadcaster RTE.
:: 04/03/2008
Germany - DVB-T handhelds to be launched
Vodafone has showcased its smart phones able to receive DVB-T services at CeBIT. These phones are expected to be launched in Germany.
:: 04/03/2008
Spain - New shopping service on DTT platform
The media group Sogecable has announced plans to launch a home shopping service on the DTT platform. The new service will be called Canal Promo.
:: 04/03/2008
France - DTT authorisation granted to broadcasters in Paris
The DTT services with licenses to broadcast in the region of Paris will launch on 20 March. The services will be available on multiplex Multi 7.
:: 04/03/2008
Peru - Launch of a DVB-H trial
ATV, subsidiary of the media group Albavision has launched a DVB-H trial in Lima, Peru. Viewers are able to access four television programme services.
:: 03/03/2008
Lithuania - Launch of Digital GALA
Network operator TEO LT has officially launched a DTT service named Digital GALA. This launch follows TEO's acquisition of UAB Nacionaline Skaitmenine Televizija, the holder of two DTT broadcast licenses, in January.
:: 03/03/2008
Ireland - BCI publishes multiplex licensing policy
The Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) has published its policy regarding the allocation of licenses for the operation of DTT multiplexes A, B and C.
:: 03/03/2008
Belgium - BIPT opposes planned ASO
The national telecom regulator, BIPT is taking steps to nullify current analogue switch-off plans in the Flemish-speaking part of the country. Analogue switch-off is to be completed by the end of the year.
:: 29/02/2008
Austria - Media & Broadcast to build DVB-H network
The broadcast network operator Media & Broadcast has been allocated a license to build and operate a DVB-H network by KommAustria. French network operator TDF acquired Media & Broadcast, formerly called T-Systems, in early 2008.
:: 28/02/2008
Portugal - Zon Multimedia can participate in DTT platform
According to the communications regulator Anacom, Zon Multimedia SGPS can participate in the pay-DTT platform.
:: 28/02/2008
Korea - ASO confirmed for 2012
A National Assembly committee responsible for broadcasting and communications has confirmed that analogue switch-off will take place by 31 December 2012.
:: 27/02/2008
CIS countries meeting to discuss DTT launch
A group of CIS countries are meeting to discuss the launch of DTT services in the region. The meeting is taking place this week in Belarus.
:: 27/02/2008
United Kingdom - Less funding needed for digital help schemes
According to the National Audit Office, the BBC has set aside Ł250 million more than necessary for funding digital switchover programmes.
:: 26/02/2008
France - Reorganisation of DTT multiplexes
The CSA has approved the re-organisation of television programme services on two DTT multiplexes. This will allow for the launch of a new HD service.
:: 26/02/2008
France - CSA makes further local DTT licenses available
In its continual drive to launch local DTT services, the CSA is inviting local broadcasters to tender for DTT licenses in 4 new areas.
:: 26/02/2008
Portugal - Tender for DTT licenses opened
The communications regulator Anacom is inviting candidates to tender for frequency licences to operate DTT multiplexes.
:: 25/02/2008
Italy - Terms of iDTV rebate announced
The Ministry of Communications has released the terms of the tax rebate on television sets with an integrated digital tuner (iDTV).
:: 25/02/2008
Austria - Disagreement over DTT transmission costs
According to local reports, the commercial broadcaster ATV and the network operator ORS are at odds over DTT transmission costs.
:: 25/02/2008
New Zealand - DTT platform launch set for April
The free-to-air DTT service is expected to launch in April, although a definitive date has not been given.
:: 25/02/2008
France - TNTSat accessed by 350k homes
TNTSat, the satellite service that provides viewers with access to the same television programmes as available on the free-to-air DTT platform is now accessed in 350,000 homes.
:: 22/02/2008
Austria - 400,000 DTT set-top boxes sold
By the end of 2007, 400,000 DTT set top boxes have been sold. This figure does not include integrated television sets, portable DTT receivers or DVB-T USB sticks.
:: 22/02/2008
Germany - DVB-H services to be launched in June 2008
The regional media regulator for Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein have formally issued a license for DVB-H services to Mobile 3.0.
:: 21/02/2008
Council of Europe declaration on "digital dividend"
The Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe has issued its declaration on the allocation and management of the "digital dividend" in which it recognises the public value of the dividend.
:: 20/02/2008
Belgium - VRT to sell transmission network
The Flemish public broadcaster, VRT, will sell its terrestrial transmission network following analogue switch-off set to be completed by the end of 2008.
:: 19/02/2008
Switzerland - ASO to be completed on 25 February
Switzerland will complete digital switchover on 25 February when analogue services are switched off in the regions of Valais and the Chablais Vaudois. These are the last two regions which still transmit two analogue channels.
:: 19/02/2008
TDF renames T-Systems Media Broadcast
Following its acquisition of the German network operator T-Systems Media & Broadcast, TDF has renamed it Media Broadcast. The company logo is now "Innovation that works".
:: 19/02/2008
Poland - Telecom operators commit to DVB-H
The four leading mobile telecom operators, PTC, Centertel, P4 and Polkomtel, have announced plans to launch DVB-H services. Together, they will invest €100-200 million for the new network.
:: 18/02/2008
France - Digital TV penetration reaches 46.5%
According to the latest research conducted by NPA Conseil, 46.5% of households access digital television services. The growth of the number of digital homes is due in large part to the success of DTT services.
:: 18/02/2008
United Kingdom - Digital Outreach to support digital switchover
Digital UK has announced the launch of a new organisation, Digital Outreach, to support viewers with digital switchover. Digital UK will provide funding of Ł2.9 million.
:: 15/02/2008
France - Further DTT roll-out planned
The CSA has announced that DTT services will be available in the areas of Amiens, Bar-le-Duc, Saint-Dizier, Blois, Châtellerault and Périgueux by 31 March.
:: 14/02/2008
Czech Republic - DVB-H trial using OMA BCAST Smart Card Profile
T-Mobile Czech Republic has announced plans to launch a DVB-H trial using a OMA BCAST Smart Card Profile system from Nagravision. The trial will evaluate the performance of handsets, SIM cards and headend equipment.
:: 14/02/2008
Poland - Use of MPEG-4 in DTT trials
The public service broadcaster TVP is expected to change the compression format used in its trial in Warsaw. Currently using MPEG-2, the trial will be converted to the MPEG-4 AVC format.
:: 13/02/2008
Spain - Walt Disney takes stake in DTT
The Walt Disney subsidiary for Spain and Portugal has bought a 20% stake in the DTT service Net TV. It is thought to have paid approximately €27 million.
:: 12/02/2008
Austria - Plans to provide HD receiver subsidy
As part of its plans to introduce HDTV services, Austria would like to provide viewers with subsidies to use towards the purchase of HD receivers.
:: 12/02/2008
United States - 5.9 million may lose some TV services after ASO
Research by Centris has shown that 5.9 million television sets will be unable to receive as many services in an all-digital environment compared with an analogue environment.
:: 12/02/2008
Spain - DVB-H launch expected in 2010
DVB-H services are expected to be launched in 2010. The launch is expected to coincide with analogue switch-off, currently set to take place on 3 April 2010.
:: 12/02/2008
Spain - 8 million receivers sold
By the end of 2007, a total of 8 million DTT receivers had been sold. Of the receivers sold in 2007, 62% were integrated into other equipment, especially television sets.
:: 11/02/2008
Nagravision has announced the launch of QTM TV, a pay DTT set-top box for automotive applications. Nagravision has partnered with Quantum and Magnetti Marelli to develop this solution.
:: 11/02/2008
Estonia - Neljas TV to join DTT platform
The DTT service provider and cable operator, Starman, has announced plans to launch its own television programme service on 22 February. The new service has been named Neljas TV (Fourth TV).
:: 11/02/2008
350 million DTT receviers worldwide in 2013
According to ABI Research, 350 million DTT receivers will be in homes by 2013 compared with 65 million receivers in 2007. This represents a compound annual growth rate of 32%.
:: 11/02/2008
Spain - RTVE most popular service on DTT platform
Latest figures show that the DTT services from the public service broadcaster RTVE had the largest platform audience share last year. It had an audience share of 19.5%.
:: 10/02/2008
Samsung launches chip with DVB-H/DVB-T reception
Samsung has launched a radiofrequency chip and channel decoder for mobile television. The S3C4F60 measures a 65 nanometers.
:: 08/02/2008
United Kingdom - ITV to enhance DTT services
Public service broadcaster ITV has announced plans to expand the hours of its services ITV4 and CITV on the DTT platform.
:: 08/02/2008
United Kingdom - Television transmitter location maps published
The broadcast regulator Ofcom has published maps that detail the locations of all transmitters within each broadcast television region.
:: 08/02/2008
Poland - TV4 and TV Puls allocated analogue frequencies
Commercial broadcaster TVN has protested the award of analogue terrestrial frequencies to the regional broadcaters TV Puls and TV4. The National Broadcasting Council (KRRiT) awarded the frequencies.
:: 08/02/2008
Croatia - Launch of two new DTT services
The public service broadcaster HRT has been given permission to launch two new television services by the competition body AZTN.
:: 08/02/2008
Italy - Pay-DTT services available on Fastweb IPTV receiver
The premium DTT services from commercial broadcaster LA7 can now be accessed on Fastweb's IPTV set-top boxes. The set-top boxes have been certified to receive the LA7 Cartapiu smartcards.
:: 07/02/2008
France - DTT penetration reaches 28.25%
Research published by Médiamétrie shows a total of 28.2% of households access DTT services in January 2008, compared with 23.5% in December 2007.
:: 07/02/2008
Italy - Commission set up to allocate DTT frequencies
The Communications Authority, AgCom, has named the commission with task of allocating DTT frequencies. These frequencies are derived from the 40% transmission capacity that the national broadcasters, RAI, Mediaset and La7, must make available in their multiplexes.
:: 06/02/2008
Broadcom launches two DVB-H/DVB-T tuners
Broadcom has launched two new DTT chips which can both receive DVB-T and DVB-H services. The BCM 2930 and BCM 2940 measure 65 nm.
:: 06/02/2008
A DVB-H trial has been launched in Latvia. Trial partners include
Mobile operator Latvian Mobile Telecom and the broadcast network operator Latvia State Radio and Television Centre.
:: 06/02/2008
the Netherlands - KPN aims for 10% of TV market
The network operator KPN has announced that it aims to secure 10% of the television market by 2010 with its DTT and IPTV services. KPN markets DTT services under the Digitenne brand.
:: 05/02/2008
Israel - DTT services to be launched in August 2008
On 4 February, the Knesset (Parliament) approved the legal framework to allow for the launch of DTT services. Services are expected to be launched by the end of the summer.
:: 05/02/2008
Czech Republic - RRTV to confirm TV Barrandov DTT license
The Radio and TV Council (RRTV) is expected to confirm the DTT license for the broadcaster TV Barrandov.
:: 05/02/2008
Denmark - Three candidates for DTT license
The Mediesekretariatet received three applications for the license to operate four multiplexes on the DTT platform. As a next step, the regulator plans to announce the license winner on 28 March.
:: 05/02/2008
France - CSA closes consultation on ASO
The broadcast regulator, CSA, has closed its consultation on the process for analogue switch-off. It expects to publish a synthesis of the responses received in March.
:: 05/02/2008
Italy - Over 6.5 million DTT receivers sold
According to figures published by GfK, a total of 6.697.516 DTT receivers have been sold since the launch of DTT services in early 2004.
:: 04/02/2008
Abilis launches DVB-T/DVB-H chip
The Kudelski company Abilis has announced the launch of its AS-101 mobile digital television chip. The chip supports both DVB-T and DVB-H reception.
:: 01/02/2008
EC closes infringement procedure against Greece
The European Commission (EC) has closed its infringement procedure against Greece for failing to implement the Electronic Communications Competition Directive. This follows from the adoption of a new media in Greece in September 2007.
:: 01/02/2008
Portugal - DTT license tender expected in February
The Minister of Public Works and Telecomunications, Mário Linen, has announced that the invitation to tender for DTT services will be launched in February. Both free-to-air and pay-DTT services will be available to viewers.
:: 31/01/2008
Italy - ECJ rules against frequency allocation
The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has ruled that the allocation of frequencies in Italy goes against European Union (EU) law. According to the ECJ, Italy breached EU law by favouring incumbent broadcasters when awarding frequencies for DTT services.
:: 31/01/2008
South Africa - Plans for DTT launch in November
The Ministry of Communications is expected to present its plans on digital television to the government by the end of March.
:: 31/01/2008
Czech Republic - CRa warns 85% DTT coverage in 2010
The head of the network operator CRa, Jane Hannahovou, has expressed doubts about the universality of DTT coverage by 2010. Currently, 10 October 2010 has been set as the date for analogue switch-off.
:: 31/01/2008
United Kingdom - DTG questions Ofcom's HD/DTT plans
In its response to Ofcom's consultation The Future of Digital Terrestrial Television, the DTG has stated that the regulator’s current proposals have the potential to compromise DTT’s long term viability.
:: 31/01/2008
France - Expansion of DTV to overseas territories
The Minister of Culture, Christine Albanel, has tasked the CSA with evaluating the possibility for developing digital television services in the French overseas territories.
:: 31/01/2008
Uruguay - Launch of first DVB-H trial
The first DVB-H pilot in South America is underway in Uruguay. Trial services have been launched in the tourist region of Punta del Este.
:: 31/01/2008
United States - FCC may require DSO ads
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is expected to approve a plan that will require broadcasters to run at least four 30-second public-service announcements each day about digital switchover.
:: 30/01/2008
SIDSA has announced the launch of a new DVB-H chipset, the Enter e1. The chipset can be easily integrated into any kind of DVB-H device including mobile phones, Portable Media Players, PDAs, etc.
:: 29/01/2008
France - CSA opens tender for HD/DTT license
The French broadcast regulator, Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel (CSA), has invited candidates to tender for an HD/DTT license. The new HD/DTT service will be a pay service.
:: 29/01/2008
Austria - Media regulator disqualifies 2 DVB-H candidates
According to media reports, the Austrian media regulator has disqualified Telekom Austria and ORS from participating in the tender for the DVB-H network operation license.
:: 29/01/2008
Germany - Appeal against EC decision on DTT subsidies
Following the decision by the European Commission (EC) to ban subsidies for the transmission of commercial DTT services, the media authority for Nordrhine-Westphalia has lodged an appeal with the European Court of Justice.
:: 28/01/2008
Spain - IGC buys stake in Dahlia TV
Swedish investment fund Investor Growth Capital AB (IGC) has taken a stake in Dahlia TV, the pay TV operator owned by Air Plus TV. IGC has taken a 26.1% stake in Air Plus TV.
:: 25/01/2008
Brunei - DVB-T launch set for August 2008
The broadcaster RTB has announced that it plans to launch DVB-T services in August. DTT trials have been underways since January 2006.
:: 25/01/2008
Indonesia - DVB-H services to launch in 2008
Nokia Siemens Networks and Global Mediacom have announced plans to launch DVB-H services in Indonesia. Services are expected to be available in the first half of 2008 in the area of Jabodetabek.
:: 24/01/2008
Germany - Mobile 3.0 DVB-H launch plans announced
Further information on the Mobile 3.0 mobile television launch plans have been made public. In early January, Mobile 3.0 officially received the license to provide DVB-H services.
:: 24/01/2008
Sri Lanka - Launch of DVB-T pilot
Dialog Telecom launched the first DVB-T pilot in Sri Lanka on 23 January. Services are available to a limited number of users in the city of Colombo.
:: 24/01/2008
NXP launches multi-band portable TV tuner
The semiconductor company NXP has launched the world's first multi-band television tuner, TDA18292.
:: 23/01/2008
According to Broadband TV News, the DTT promotions organisation, The Czech Digital Televisions Association (ADT), is to cease operations.
:: 23/01/2008
France - CSA to tender further local DTT licenses
The CSA is inviting broadcasters to tender for the provision of local DTT services in the regions of Caen, Poitiers, Reims-Mézičres and Perpignan.
:: 23/01/2008
Poland - Draft amendments proposed to broadcast legislation
The parliament is currently debating amendments to the current legislation regulating radio and television broadcasts. The amendments specifically target the National Broadcasting Council, KRRiT.
:: 23/01/2008
Taiwan - PTS successfully trials DVB-H services
The public service broadcaster PTS has completed its yearlong DVB-H trial with its partners mobile operators Chunghua Telecom, Taiwan Mobile and Fareastone, manufacturers Motorola and BenQ and software vendor Cyberlink.
:: 23/01/2008
Spain - ONO against pay-per-view DTT services
The cable service provider ONO has criticized the proposal to offer pay services on the DTT platform. Commercial broadcasters would like to change current licensing terms to allow for the launch of pay-per-view services on the DTT platform.
:: 22/01/2008
United Kingdom - Three retailers to stop selling analogue TV sets
Three leading electronics retailers, Currys, Dixons and PC World, have announced that they will stop selling television sets and DVD recorders that only have analogue tuners. Already, over 90% of television sets sold by the three retailers are digital.
:: 18/01/2008
Italy - ASO to go-ahead in Sardinia
Broadcasters in Italy have reached agreement on digital switchover in the region of Sardinia.
:: 17/01/2008
United Kingdom - Digital UK continues involvement in Copeland
Digital UK, the body responsible for leading digital switchover, has presented a grant for a digital inclusion project run by Age Concern North West Cumbria. The project will provide advice, assistance and training in new technologies.
:: 17/01/2008
Austria - ASO to continue on 4 February
Analogue switch-off is set to continue on 4 February. On this date, the regions of Kärnten, Niederösterreich and Tirol will complete digital switchover.
:: 17/01/2008
Norway - Sony iDTV approved for use
The pay-DTT operator RiksTV has approved the use of the Sony HD iDTV for its services. It is the first iDTV to receive such certification.
:: 17/01/2008
Germany - Mobile 3.0 officially awarded DVB-H license
Media authorities have officially awarded the license to operate DVB-H services to Mobile 3.0. The company had been pre-selected for the license allocation in October 2007, and officially received it following its adherence to certain regulatory conditions.
:: 16/01/2008
France - 32 candidates for DVB-H broadcast licenses
A total of 32 candidates have applied for DVB-H broadcast licenses by the 15 January deadline. The CSA had invited candidates to tender for the licenses in early November.
:: 16/01/2008
Poland - TV Puls expands terrestrial coverage
The National Broadcasting Council (KKRiT) has awarded the commercial broadcaster TV Puls with terrestrial frequencies in the cities of Wroclaw and Szczecin. Previously, TV Puls had a terrestrial coverage limited to 15.9% of the population.
:: 16/01/2008
Buglaria - DSO planning begins
According to Veselin Bozhkov, head of the Communications Regulation Commission (CRC), the CRC could begin awarding DTT licenses this summer.
:: 16/01/2008
France - Broadcasters sign agreement for mobile TV cooperation
Commercial broadcasters have signed an agreement to promote the development of mobile television services in France.
:: 15/01/2008
Spain - Over 7.4 million DTT receivers sold
With over 7.4 million receivers sold, DTT penetration has now reached 26.7% of Spanish television households.
:: 14/01/2008
Although local broadcasters were required by the DTT Technical Plan to complete digital switchover by 1 January 2008, many have not yet done so.
:: 14/01/2008
Singapore - Launch of commercial DVB-H trial
The broadcaster MediaCorp and the mobile operator M1 will launch a commercial DVB-H trial in the middle of the year. The trial is subject to regulatory approval.
:: 12/01/2008
Hungary - DTT licenses expected to be issued in Spring
The National Communications Authority (NCA) has announced that it expects to issue an invitation to tender for a DTT license this Spring. The tender invitation had initially been expected last October.
:: 11/01/2008
Norway - ASO to begin on 4 March
The region of Rogaland in the south-west is set to switch off its analogue television services on 4 March at 11.30.
:: 11/01/2008
Italy - Mediaset to launch pay-DTT bouquet
According to Rapid TV News, the commercial broadcaster Mediaset is preparing to launch a pay-DTT service on 19 January. The new service is expected to be named "Premium Gallery".
:: 10/01/2008
Sweden - 9% subscriber growth for Boxer
In 2007, pay-DTT service provider Boxer grew its subscriber base by 9% with the addition of 55,000 new customers. This brings Boxer's total number of subscribers to 709,000.
:: 10/01/2008
Portugal - Government against DTT subsidies
While speaking to the Parliamentary Commission on Ethics, Society and Culture, the Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Augustus Saints Hisses, ruled out subsidies for DTT receivers.
:: 10/01/2008
Austria - New service on DTT platform
The new national commercial broadcast service Puls 4 will launch on the DTT platform on 28 January at 18.00.
:: 09/01/2008
Hungary - Plans for a commercial DVB-H trial
A commercial trial of DVB-H services has been launched in Hungary. Approximately 300 users will have access to Nokia receivers to test mobile television services.
:: 08/01/2008
Switzerland - Swisscom to launch DVB-H in June
Swisscom Broadcasting has announced its plans to launch DVB-H services in June 2008, in time for the EURO 2008 Football Championship. Services will be available in the cities of Basel, Berne, Geneva and Zurich.
:: 07/01/2008
Czech Republic - CDG to expand DTT coverage
The multiplex operated by the Czech Digital Group (CDG) will expand its coverage to include the cities of Brno and Ostrava. Already, it provides trial DTT services in Prague.
:: 03/01/2008
Lithuania - DTT coverage to expand to 95% of the population
The leading telecom operator, TEO, has completed its acquisiton of UAB Nacionalinė Skaitmeninė Televizija, the holder of two DTT broadcast licenses. UAB Nacionalinė Skaitmeninė Televizija has been spun off from UAB Mikrovisatos TV.
:: 03/01/2008
Portugal - New free-to-air service for DTT platform
As part of its strategy for digital switchover, the government has announced its plans to launch a new national television programme service. The new service, which will be free-to-air, will be available on the DTT platform.
:: 03/01/2008
France - CSA opens tender for local DTT services
The French broadcast regulator, Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel (CSA), has invited broadcasters to tender for local DTT services. One DTT service slot will be made available in multiplex R1.
:: 03/01/2008
The Austrian watchmaker, LAKS, has developed a watch with a DVB-T tuner. The watch has been developed in partnership with bwin and uses a DiBcom chipset.
:: 21/12/2007
CI+ Forum issues draft specification for horizontal pay-DTV market
The CI+ Forum has published a final draft of its CI+ Specification for public review.
:: 20/12/2007
Russia - Moratorium on broadcast licenses
No further television broadcast licenses will be issued until a new frequency distribution plan has been approved.
:: 20/12/2007
Norway - NTV to license post-ASO capacity
Norges televisjon (NTV), the license holder for frequencies between 470-790, has announced plans make capacity available for further pay DTT services following analogue switch-off.
:: 20/12/2007
France - Europe 2 TV to be renamed Virgin 17
The DTT service Europe 2 TV will be re-branded Virgin 17 as of 1 January 2008.
:: 19/12/2007
Sweden - New frequencies allocated for DTT services
The government has announced plans to make more frequencies available for digital broadcasting services.
:: 19/12/2007
German - 85% population coverage by end of year
DTT services are now available to 85% of the population. Coverage will increase to 90% of the population in 2008.
:: 19/12/2007
France - Simavelec calls for free-to-air mobile services
The consumer electronics association Simavelec has called for free-to-air mobile TV services.
:: 19/12/2007
United Kingdom - 9.3 million DTT households
According to the Digital Television Progress Report for the third quarter of 2007 (July-September) published by Ofcom, a total of 21.7 million households access digital television.
:: 19/12/2007
Australia - Changes to DSO strategy confirmed
Following the election of a new government, changes have been made to Australia's digital switchover strategy.
:: 18/12/2007
France - Parliamentary commission to review digital dividend
The Parliamentary Commission set to review the digital dividend will submit its report to the Prime Minister in early 2008.
:: 18/12/2007
India - TRAI recommends auction for mobile TV
The Telecoms Regulatory Authority (TRAI) is expected to propose that the government auction mobile TV spectrum to the highest bidder. By separating the spectrum from the license, new operators would be able to bid for the spectrum.
:: 18/12/2007
Italy - Mediaset calls for earlier ASO
The president of the commercial broadcaster Mediaset, Fedele Confalonieri, has declared the 2012 analogue switch-off date as too far away.
:: 17/12/2007
Intel creates chip with DVB-H, WiFi and WiMAX reception
Intel claims to have developed a single chip with WiFi, WiMAX and DVB-H reception. The chip is currently being produced in test quantities.
:: 17/12/2007
Spain - ASIMELEC calls for more DTT support
The consumer electronics association, ASIMELEC, has highlighted its concern regarding a lack of interest in the further development of DTT services.
:: 17/12/2007
Italy - Pangea to offer new PPV services
Pangea will launch a third pay-per-view DTT service in January 2008. The new service is backed by the former head of the Spanish commercial broadcaster Antenna 3, Maurizio Giunco.
:: 14/12/2007
UK - BBC considers reducing DTT picture quality
The BBC may be prepared to reduce picture quality in order to get the best value out of its spectrum. The BBC Executive Board is to carry out consumer research into picture quality on the DTT system following a recommendation put forward in a Deloitte & Touche report on the BBC’s use of spectrum.
:: 14/12/2007
Finland - Finnish explore YLE smart card
Finland’s ministry of justice is to examine the possibility of encrypting DTT transmissions from the public broadcaster YLE and issuing smart cards only to those that have paid the television licence fee. The method, which could be introduced as soon as 2010, would help shore up YLE finances, wh