Bezeq has said its satellite platform Yes is to drop DTH transmissions in favour of OTT.
Despite being described by the company as “a gradual process that is expected to spread over several years”, the decision will still come as a blow to troubled satellite operator Spacecom. Yes currently uses Amos 3 and 7 from 7 degrees West.
In a statement, Yes said it would monitor market conditions and make changes to its plan as appropriate.
“The resolution of the yes Board was taken in light of trends in the TV content market that include lower barriers to entry, the emergence of new players, the establishment of OTT broadcasting technologies, changes in the value chain, and change in consumer habits.”
Bezeq said its study had taken into account satellite technology, the set-top box market, content rights, broadband speeds and the current regulatory environment.
Described as a “gradual process” the company said there were no guarantees as to when the process would take place, but said it would lead to savings.
Launched in 2000, Yes currently has in the region of 600,000 subscribers.