The Future of Television Distribution Richard Lindsay-Davies, Chief Executive, DTG
Navigating a Dynamic Landscape
The broad conclusion of all our stakeholder outreach and opinion gathering is that the gradual transition to “all-digital” television (all-IP) is more complex, will take longer and will involve significantly more stakeholders than the transition from analogue to digital broadcast. In the meantime, I cannot impress enough the importance of maintaining R.F. in- home TV distribution installations. A message we continue to hammer home to legislators, regulators and town planning authorities. The Final Acts of the ITU World Radio Communications Conference at the end of 2023, which meets every three to four years, support this approach. Digital terrestrial television (DTT) received a vote of confidence in its continued resistance against the growing dominance of streaming at the end of last year, when its primary place in the UHF spectrum was secured for the foreseeable future. It provides regulatory stability while offering continued access to the spectrum. That is not to say there were not some compromises, which include a secondary allocation for mobile in the 614-698 MHz band and a review of broadcasting spectrum at WRC-31. The DTG, through its PMSE and (TV) Distribution working groups and 5G project work, will continue to lead discussions with industry to ensure the results of these compromises are fully, understood and workable.
Television distribution has undergone a remarkable evolution since its inception. In recent years, however, the landscape has been disrupted by the rise of streaming platforms and innovative technologies. The future of television distribution promises to be dynamic and transformative, driven by technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and a relentless pursuit of convenience and personalisation. The Digital TV Group’s mission is to ensure digital television reaches its full potential by innovating with industry to efficiently and effectively deliver long-term growth, centred around an egalitarian vision that digital television is for all. Throughout its constant evolution, digital TV distribution in the UK, and the ongoing audience benefits it delivers, has been underpinned by the DTG D-Book: the technical requirements co-created with, and supported by, industry and stakeholders, implemented in every digital television in the UK. This common set of requirements ensures a stable, open market that provides a wide choice of affordable, safe and interoperable options for audiences. It also helps to ensure smooth market innovation, transformation and new technology and experience transitions that are fair and elegant.
40
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker