TV reception problems in Italy may ultimately be solved by the introduction of DVB-T2, tests for which are currently being undertaken in the Val d’Aosta region.
However, by the time this happens in 2015, when it will be mandatory to update decoders to the standard, the new technology, says La Stampa, could already be out of date.
La Stampa says that 12 months after the last analogue signals were switched off in Sicily, Italians are still struggling with poor reception, especially in mountainous and border areas.
This had led some viewers to take the public broadcaster RAI to court, with the verdict of a class action expected in the next few days.
The transition to digital broadcasting in Italy cost at least €400 million and viewers who were unable to claim state funding for reception equipment or buy their own now have only one realistic alternative, namely satellite equipment typically costing around €150.
TV signal reception problems in Italy are currently being addressed by L’Agcom, working with RAI and the Ministry of Development.