Growing trend of smart TV and connected devices
New Delhi: Amid the increasing popularity of smart TVs and connected devices in the country, a significant shift is possible for those watching TV on the internet. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is planning to regulate TV services broadcast over the internet. On the instructions of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, TRAI may recommend bringing Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST) and App-based Linear TV Distribution (ALTD) under the ambit of a strict regulatory framework and licensing. This possible move has divided the country's broadcasting and tech industry into two factions.
Demand from cable and DTH operators
Demand for equality between cable-DTH operators, tech companies open front
Traditional cable and DTH operators say they are bound by regulations on tariff setting, consumer protection and strict content codes, while platforms that show the same channels on the internet are completely free from regulations. On the other hand, OTT and tech companies have opposed this regulation. They argue that they only use telecom networks and OTT is already excluded from the Telecommunications Act 2023.
Increase in the number of connected TVs
Connected TV will double by 2028, considering licensing
It is estimated that by 2028, the number of homes with connected TV in India will increase from 2 crore to 4 crore. Given this huge economic and consumer transformation, TRAI believes that scheduled services like TV over the Internet cannot be left completely uncontrolled. Efforts are being made to create a similar business environment for all service providers through licensing and regulation.
impact on audience
What will be the impact on the pockets and content of common viewers?
If Internet TV is regulated like cable and DTH, the viewer experience will change significantly. Coming under the rules, there will be a strict ban on obscene, misleading advertisements and objectionable content on the platforms. However, its biggest impact may be on the wallets of the viewers. Due to increasing license fees and compliance costs, companies may start charging monthly fees or subscriptions from users instead of showing free channels, which could end the era of free TV on the Internet.