Set-top box (STB) manufacturers must ensure citizens can use the devices to access the Internet.
Speaking at the Gauteng ICT Summit today, Gauteng CIO Lemmy Chappie said the province is working closely with the Department of Communications on the design of the STBs.
The STBs will be used once SA switches from analogue broadcasting signal to digital.
Chappie said whoever manufacturers these boxes must ensure there is a path for citizens to use the TV as a computer.
This will solve the problem of providing devices for accessing the Internet, said the CIO. "People must have the access they require."
Rich broadband
In line with this, the province aims to ensure 95% of its residents have access to broadband. This will be done through its Gauteng Link (G-Link) broadband project.
The G-Link programme represents Gauteng's vision of developing the necessary infrastructure that will ensure Internet connectivity and access are made easier for communities and rural development.
Apart from providing basic broadband access to 95% of Gauteng citizens, the project aims to enrich the speed of connectivity to include rich media and provide a "last inch" connectivity solution to all citizens.
Chappie added that a phased approach will minimise the time it takes for citizens to feel the difference.
He explained that basic broadband of 1-4Mbs will be provided over the first three years and rich media broadband of over 5Mbs will be provided thereafter.
The project, also known as Blue Umbrella, was first announced by former premier, Mbhazima Shilowa, in 2008.
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