FROM THE INDUSTRY
crucial discussions, through initiatives like SCTE Presents days and shaping debate around the Future of TV at IBC 2026 alongside key industry partners. If you are attending, you should look out for those conference and owner sessions that are targeted at the Future of TV. You can find out more about what the SCTE is doing on the Future of TV at IBC 2026 on page XX. While some countries claim they will not transition, it is global viewer behaviour - rather than government mandates – that is at the heart of driving this shift.
it was delayed allowing full readiness to be present for the move to VoIP.
n Internet delivery can provide higher- quality video, with HD available by default for most services and support for even higher formats such as Full HD and UHD. UHD is especially important because the BBC currently offers it only through BBC iPlayer. n Enhanced interactivity providing new experiences, such as additional statistics information for sports, and shoppable capabilities in advertising. n No ‘one size fits all’ experience - alternative experiences for the big and small screen, including immersive viewing that is suited directly to the viewing device. n Ensure that the viewing experience
Unlike the 2012 Digital Switchover, which required strict spectrum management between analogue and digital signals, Internet delivery also allows us to carefully validate readiness to ensure a successful transition that leaves no one behind. This can fit with focusing more on the 2034 date, than the ultra-conservative approach to making the transition in 2044. The UK is not alone in assessing the future of television; many nations are evaluating in the same way. A few countries have already turned off broadcast infrastructure or relegated it to niche scenarios, though these market shifts rely heavily on existing Pay TV platforms. As the UK takes initial steps toward an Internet-only future for public service broadcasting, the world is watching. While some countries claim they will not transition, it is global viewer behaviour - rather than government mandates – that is at the heart of driving this shift. Those nations must carefully evaluate if maintaining the status quo is truly viable, or whether other options will meet their needs.
is as accessible and familiar to the viewer’s needs, whilst ensuring that more enhanced functionality can be there for those who want it.
Next in the transition We now await the published responses to the Green Paper, which will lead to detailed conclusions and potential industry-driven modifications. A modified approach is possible. This would be like the ongoing PSTN shutdown aimed at completing in January 2027. This was originally targeted for 2025, but
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This shift remains a major industry focal point and the SCTE is facilitating these
References 1. https://www.ofcom.org.uk/tv-radio-and-on-demand/public-service-broadcasting/future-of-tv-distribution) 2. You can watch the event back via the SCTE - Society of Broadband Engineers website https://thescte.eu/events/scte- lectures?view=article&id=493:tv-to-ip-capacity-challenge-scte-event&catid=303). 3. https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/watch-this-space-a-new-strategic-direction-for-uk-media-green-paper-and-public- consultation/watch-this-space-a-new-strategic-direction-for-uk-media-green-paper-and-public-consultation)
Volume 48 No.23 SEPTEMBER 2026
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