Russia’s Ministry of Communications and Mass Media (Minkomsvyaz) has outlined a plan for the phased switch off of must-carry analogue TV channels.
Kommersant reports that the first stage, on February 11, 2019, will see the switch off take place in seven parts of the country. This will be followed by a second stage on April 15, 2019 covering 20 parts, including Moscow, with the third and final stage, covering the remaining 57 parts, taking place on June 3, 2019.
Minkomsvyaz has also highlighted the fact that by the end of this year all Russians will be able to receive 20 digital TV channels, carried on the first and second multiplexes, free of charge.
Furthermore, although the decision to switch off analogue signals was only taken in most countries when digital penetration stood at 70-80%, the situation is already much better in Russia.
