The Future of TV: A New Era for Broadcasting in the UK
Written on
The Evolution of Broadcasting
In the latest BHC Bulletin for October, we delve into significant shifts in media and communication that have emerged recently. This month, we examine the UK's public service broadcasters (PSBs) collaborating to launch an innovative internet-only service, concerns regarding children's screen time, and the staggering amount of time viewers spend selecting what to watch.
To kick things off, the UK’s major PSBs are set to introduce a free internet-only TV service named "Freely" next year, catering specifically to households with broadband connections. This exciting platform, which will be integrated into next-generation smart TVs launching in 2024, will feature a diverse array of PSB content and other free-to-air channels.
Freely is being developed by Everyone TV, the organization behind the well-known free TV services Freeview and Freesat in the UK, with backing from the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Channel 5. This will mark the first occasion British viewers can enjoy both live TV channels and on-demand content streamed seamlessly through the Internet, without any associated costs. This initiative aims to eliminate the frustrations of navigating multiple apps, enhancing access to high-quality UK-produced content.
An essential aspect of this venture is maintaining the visibility of regional and local programming. The BBC and ITV are vital sources of regional news and content, but finding this material online can often be challenging. It is crucial that advancements in technology do not overshadow the importance of regional programming and relevant news.
Freely promises a "modern and intuitive" program guide, allowing viewers to easily browse channels and discover new shows directly from live TV.
The End of Traditional TV?
UK Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer emphasized the importance of ensuring that free-to-air terrestrial TV audiences are not neglected as viewing habits shift towards streaming platforms. Speaking at the Royal Television Society Cambridge Conference, she outlined her vision for maximizing the potential of the TV industry in this era of unprecedented choice.
Frazer stated, “As we look toward the future, we must ensure that viewers are not left behind. New ways of consuming TV should not diminish the experience for those who appreciate traditional terrestrial television. Our government is committed to encouraging innovation and technological advancement while safeguarding the interests of Freeview audiences.”
Meanwhile, the UK Communications Regulator, Ofcom, has initiated a Call for Evidence regarding the Future of TV Distribution. The regulator highlights that many still depend on traditional broadcast TV—known as 'linear TV'—for timely news and communal viewing experiences during significant national events.
However, the landscape has changed dramatically, with a plethora of content available through online streaming services, leading to a fragmented viewing experience. Ofcom's review aims to explore how these shifts might impact the future of content distribution.
Screen Time and Its Effects
The impact of screen time on children's education and well-being is also under scrutiny. The UK House of Commons' Education Committee is launching an inquiry into the implications of screen time on young people's lives, from early childhood through adolescence. Education Committee Chair Robin Walker MP noted the growing prevalence of internet access among children and teenagers, emphasizing the necessity of teaching them to navigate the online world safely.
At the same time, the Culture, Media and Sport Committee has identified twelve critical challenges regarding AI governance that must be addressed to ensure public safety and trust in AI technologies. These challenges encompass issues such as bias, privacy, and the potential for misrepresentation.
The implications of AI are vast, with the Chair of the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee, Rt Hon Greg Clark MP, asserting that AI will revolutionize how we live, while also presenting significant risks to established rights and national security.
The Decision Dilemma
Lastly, a recent report by Nielsen and Gracenote revealed that viewers now spend an average of 10.5 minutes deciding what to watch. This figure highlights the overwhelming number of viewing options available today, which has surged from 1.9 million titles in 2021 to 2.7 million by mid-2023 across various countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Mexico, and Germany.
This abundance of content can make selecting a program a daunting task.
For more insights on these topics and more, feel free to reach out to us at www.beechhillconsultancy.com. Enjoy the autumn season!