22 November 2007
Big changes are on the way for the UK Digital TV sector, Ofcom said yesterday.
The industry watchdog said that high-definition programming (HDTV) could be available on Freeview as early as next year without the need to use up extra radio spectrum.
Launching a consultation on the proposals, Ofcom added that the "upgrade" could be made possible simply by "making better use" of the current Digital TV spectrum.
A target of getting four HDTV services available by the time the UK digital switchover is completed in 2012 has been announced by the regulator.
Ed Richards, Chief Executive of Ofcom, said: "Digital terrestrial television is a big success story; it is in nearly 13 million homes and it contributes to the choice and diversity of British television.
"Our proposals to upgrade digital terrestrial television represent a major opportunity to build on its success with wider, richer and more varied television services, including the potential for HDTV to be made available to millions of people free to air.
"We look forward to hearing the views of viewers and from right across the industry."
Ofcom proposes that a combination of technological developments in broadcasting efficiency and a reorganisation of transmission capacity would be sufficient to free up the space needed for the new services.
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