South African consumers and global visitors will be able to watch TV on mobile devices as the Independent Communications Authority of SA (ICASA) fast-tracks the licensing of mobile TV spectrum for the Soccer World Cup.
Speaking at a press briefing in Sandton this afternoon, councillor Robert Nkuna said that, given the time constraints, only broadcasters already licensed will be eligible to bid on the spectrum that becomes available.
Newly-licensed TV providers On Digital Media, Super5Media and Walking on Water have been included and will be allowed to bid on spectrum. Unlike the expected scarce (WiMax) spectrum regulations, broadcasters will not have to compete in a “beauty parade” to enter the auction.
“We don't want a beauty parade, because beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” added ICASA chairman Paris Mashile.
ICASA has set aside two multiplexes for the specific purposes of mobile TV; however, only one will be made available for World Cup purposes. Broadcasters interested in pushing out a mobile offering will then have to bid on the spectrum available on that multiplex.
“In order to ensure competition, no single licensee will be allowed to hold more than 60% of the spectrum, with 20% as a minimum,” said Nkuna.
The policy governing the mobile TV business, published by the Department of Communications, stipulates that mobile TV should be broadcast in DVB-H. However, ICASA says it has decided to keep the regulations technology-neutral, “as long as broadcasters use technology that can be used in the frequency plan”.
The second multiplex will be made available once the authority decides on the opening of the pay-TV market to new entities, which will be done under a separate process.
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