German media authority MSA has extended its 5G Broadcast pilot project in Halle, further evaluating the distribution of audiovisual content over terrestrial broadcast infrastructure to 5G smartphones.
In the pilot project, launched in June 2024, MSA is working with terrestrial network operator Media Broadcast to assess how traditional broadcasting can be combined with 5G mobile technology using a point-to-multipoint architecture. This approach means a single signal is broadcast simultaneously to all compatible devices, similar to conventional digital terrestrial television, rather than using individual mobile data streams.
The trial uses UHF channel 40 at the transmitter site in the city of Halle and is designed to test the distribution of TV channels and other services using the 5G Broadcast standard. Local TV channel MDF 1 is part of the line up, marking the first time a local commercial broadcaster is involved in a 5G Broadcast trial in Germany.
A key feature of the technology is that reception does not require a SIM card or mobile contract. Instead, compatible devices such as smartphones, tablets or in-car systems can receive content directly via broadcast signals, without consuming mobile data volume.
According to the MSA, the objectives of the extension include further testing with near-series 5G-enabled devices and the development of potential warning functionalities, indicating a possible future role for the technology in public alert systems alongside media distribution.
“Today’s meeting highlights the wide range of tasks carried out by MSA,” said MSA Assembly Chairman Markus Kurze following the Assembly’s decision to extend the trial. “I am pleased that together with partners such as Media Broadcast we are making broadcast technology future-proof.”
Francie Petrick, Managing Director of Media Broadcast, added: “With the extension of the pilot project in Halle, we are creating the basis to continue testing 5G Broadcast in a well‑founded way, both in its technological and societal relevance. The results so far show the potential this technology holds for future‑proof media distribution and for protecting the population.”
The Halle pilot was launched following a tender published by MSA in April 2024. The initial allocation was limited to two years, with the possibility of extension.
With the extension, the trial can now run until 31 May 2028.
