Interoperability
The capability to deliver content across multiple platforms and devices based on commercial agreements and technological solutions, with regard to content protection.
DIF Views
- Reaction to Commission Communication (2006)
- Reaction to Commission Communication (2004)
- Position Paper on Digital TV Interoperability (2004)
- Response to Commission working doc on Interoperability (2004)
- Reaction to Commission's 2004 Interoperability Review
- Interoperability and freedom of choice in Digital TV: Myths & Realities
DIF says
DIF members are working together to develop and promote solutions that facilitate the delivery of TV digital content across different platforms and devices. Just as Europe's leadership in digital TV has been driven by innovation, competition and choice, DIF believes that industry initiatives are the best means to facilitate interoperability while maintaining a reliable consumer experience and security of content.
Industry initiatives can facilitate interoperability without mandation of any technical standard. Disproportionate regulatory intervention, or even the threat of such action, can inhibit the investments and innovation.
The imposition of mandated technical standards or the use of artificial economic incentives and subsidies will impede the development of new means of content distribution.
EUROPEAN COMMISSION POSITION AND POLICY MEASURES
Related EU documents and links
In July 2004, the European Commission published a Communication on the interoperability of digital interactive TV services, which was complemented by another Communication of February 2006.
In both Communications, the Commission said that standards for interoperability should not be imposed and that voluntary standardisation initiatives among stakeholders should be favoured.