The association of German cable operators (ANGA) expects the requirements for the termination of analogue TV distribution on German cable networks to be met by the end of 2018 at the latest.
The prognosis is based on the assumption that the preconditions for analogue-switch off that have been discussed between network operators, broadcasters, media policy and housing industry for many years will be in place on a nationwide level in 2018 at the latest. This particularly refers the sufficient acceptance of digital cable television which is carried on all cable networks and offers cable customers with usually over 200 channels by far larger variety at better picture quality.
At the end of 2014, more than 70% of cable customers used digital TV channels. This corresponds with a growth by over 22% compared with the previous year. At almost constant growth rate, a digital quota of considerably more than 90% can be anticipated in 2018. The acceptance level discussed by many market players as the necessary precondition for switch-off would then be exceeded.
“There is every indication that the requirements for a smooth transition will be met by the end of 2018. Cable customers can today easily change over to digital reception that is better in all aspects. Many customers still watching analogue television just don’t know this,” ANGA President Thomas Braun said in Cologne.
