European viewers want a zoom function in their TV set, subtitle adjustment and choice of dubbing for every programme, according to the fifth annual UPC Television Survey, conducted in 11 European countries.
A majority of Europeans say they have some difficulties with the visibility of text on the TV screen, such as subtitles and teletext. This proves the need for additional TV services that improve accessibility of the TV and subsequently increase the inclusion of all demographics, in particular the elderly and physically impaired.
The main issues of Europeans regarding visibility of texts on the TV screen are related to the contrast between screen text (31%), too small text on the screen (29%) and too small teletext letters (18%). This is regardless of the average distance to the TV screen (80% watches from a distance of 2 – 4 meters).
Despite this clear need, only a small percentage of the respondents currently uses existing services. For example, although widely available, over half (57%) of Europeans say they never use subtitling through teletext, and 32% only uses it occasionally.
Asked for TV services that improve accessibility, the most wanted services by Europeans, if available, are: 1.) Zoom function (seen as valuable by 43% of the respondents); 2.) Subtitle adjustment: letter-size and or colour (38%); 3.) Choice of dubbing for every program (27%); 4.) Voice recognition (25%) and 5.) Choice of subtitling for every program (24%)
