:: 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.

Following the decision by two pay-DTT broadcasters, Canal J and AB1, to return their DTT licenses, the CSA issued a consultation in June 2009. Based on the responses received, the CSA has decided to provide viewers with access to one free-to-air service from the public service broadcaster and one new pay-DTT service.

The public service broadcaster France Télévisions will make available nationwide its service France Ô which had previously only been available on the DTT platform in the Paris region. A tender will be launched for the new pay-DTT service.

In addition, the CSA has announced that 2 additional DTT multiplexes will be launched once analogue switch-off is completed in November 2011. Multiplex R7 will offer 2 free-to-air services in high-definition and 2 pay-DTT services in standard definition while Multiplex R8 will offer new services from the incumbent broadcasters on the analogue terrestrial platform (TF1, M6, Canal+). These broadcasters had been offered a "compensatory" DTT television service slot in exchange for their support of analogue switch-off.

Further capacity available on multiplexes 7 and 8 will be decided at a later date.

Source: CSA website