EBU welcomes Connected TV report

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has welcomed a report that predicts connected television devices could be in the majority of European households by 2016.

The much-anticipated European Commission Green Paper on the regulatory implications of the on-going convergence of the audiovisual media landscape also predicts global Internet video users may almost double to 1.5 billion by then.

“Preparing for a Fully Converged Audiovisual World: Growth, Creation and Values,” was presented in Brussels by Commission Vice-president Neelie Kroes.

It invites stakeholders and the wider public to share their views between now and the end of August 2013, on issues ranging from competition among audiovisual media service providers, to the development of new business models, interoperability of devices and the protection of minors.

EBU Director General Ingrid Deltenre said the advent of connected TV and second-screen applications offers great opportunities for European broadcasters and content providers.  

“Empowering audiences to fully harness technical progress and convergence in the media sector is of fundamental importance for public service media (PSM),” said Ms Deltenre.

“People must be able to find and enjoy high quality content, whether online or broadcast, via a connected TV device or second screen. We see audiovisual media convergence as an additional means of strengthening the bond between PSM and audiences.”

Ms Deltenre added: “Consumers are entitled to expect diverse, quality content across all audiovisual mediums [and] access to a safe viewing environment, particularly for younger audiences.”