Public service broadcasters will be given prominence on the YouView EPG for both channels and search, under proposals from the hybrid TV venture.
For the so-called logical channel numbers (LCNs), responsibility continues to rest with Digital Multiplex Operators Limited, the company owned by the operators of the six digital terrestrial television (DTT) multiplexes. BBC, Channel 4, ITV and Arqiva are members of both DMOL and the YouView consortium.
YouView will follow the DMOL numbering, which has allocated the PSBs the first public positions in the guide, followed by many of their digital spin-off services.
YouView has responsibility for allocating UI positions to On Demand Portal Players and Apps, and LCNs to IP channels and On Demand Placeholder Channels. It has separated LCNs from UI positions.
Launching a consultation into its UI and Search Policy, YouView said that both viewer expectation and convenience by giving prominence to the PSBs. However, it adds that no undue prominence will be given, regardless of whether the broadcaster concerned is a member of the YouView consortium. Prominence in listings and UI positions to those services with the greatest audience reach. Post launch positions will be given on a first come, first served basis.
The consultation period will close November 4, 2011.
Broadband TV Views: It was to be expected that PSBs would take pole position in the YouView EPG and this is no different than on Freeview, Sky or Virgin. It is admirable of YouView not to give preference to its own shareholders, or at least those that do not hold PSB status, though giving similar prominence to what it calls UI positions and on demand may come under further scrutiny.
