eTV - Impact of Enhanced Television

Usage

Content providers used to be broken down into broadcast networks, broadcast stations, and cable networks. With the rise of multicasting cable and satellite, this distinction has become somewhat blurred.

Broadcast TV networks - All the broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS & FOX) provide some degree of enhanced programming through either single screen or dual screen applications. It is generally accepted that broadcasters who ignore new distribution opportunities are likely to lose audience members.

Broadcast TV stations – According to the FCC as of December 31, 2001, there were 1,695 terrestrial television broadcasters, consisting of commercial and educational UHF and VHF stations. While enhanced television can take place over existing analog transmission towers through the VBI, digital broadcasting’s increased bandwidth opens up a realm of additional data opportunities. As of November 2002, 354 were broadcasting digitally.

Cable TV networks – Cable networks are uniquely positioned to take advantage of cable’s existing infrastructure and since the debut of Qube, have been at the forefront of exploring interactive programming and applications.

CNN, TV Land, The Food Network, Turner Classic Movies and the USA Network have been early adopters of developing and delivering enhanced programming. According to the FCC, as of June 2002, multichannel video program distributors were reaching nearly 69 million households through cable.

Satellite TV Providers – The FCC also reported direct broadcast satellite service grew quicker than cable from nearly 16 million households in June 2001 to approximately 18 million households in June 2002. This accounts for more than 20% of all the multichannel video program distributor subscribers. As illustrated by DirecTV’s channel lineup, a growing number are offering eTV programming.

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Introduction - Applications - Models - Impact - E-Commerce - Conclusion - Reference

jarkraus@indiana.edu