I will probably send this to infso-desk@cec.eu.int in a few days, but I'd appreciate comments sooner, if you have them. This affects free software's ability to display and use interactive digital television services, such as Linux-based PVRs.
I note with interest the publication of "Interactive TV : Commission reiterates its support for open and interoperable standards, but says implementation should not be made legally binding" at http://europa.eu.int/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/04/1012&f...
Please note that I don't really understand what this support entails, if it does not (for example) require public-funded broadcasters to implement an open interactive TV platform before any closed one. In the UK, the BBC has interactive TV on DVB-T which I think might be MHP-based (I can't receive it, being outside the coverage area), but the DVB-S domestic service on Astra2 uses the dominant proprietary Sky/OpenTV platform. The BBC hasn't even implemented a full DVB-SI EIT (7-day electronic programme guide) or DVB-TXT (teletext) on DVB-S, as I mentioned in http://mjr.towers.org.uk/blog/2004-5.html#bbcdsatstandards@2004-5.mjr.dsl.pi... and elsewhere, so users wanting programmable Personal Video Recorders (PVRs) are almost forced to purchase Sky's + system instead of a DVB-standard set. Basic DVB-S equipment retails from around 80 pounds sterling, 33% cheaper than Sky, but has very little market share, as far as I can tell.
For comparison, I believe German broadcasters - ARD, ZDF and various regional chains - broadcast DVB-TXT, fuller DVB-SI EIT and are developing MHP-based interactive services. Further, experience during visits to Germany suggests there is competition between manufacturers and retailers, both broadcaster-backed (Premiere, for example) and independent.
Will the commission act against the UK Department of Culture, Media and Sport's failure to ensure the BBC supports open and interoperable standards for its DVB-S services, under Article 18 of Directive 2002/21/EC?