France To Launch Digital Terrestrial TV From Dec '04

[Gregg Lengling]

Digital terrestrial TV will be launched in France between December 1, 2004 and March 31, 2005, the country's radio and TV regulatory body Conseil Superieur de l'Audiovisuel decided Friday.



At least six months before the launch, CSA will decide on which parts of the country will be covered, and the timetable of the digital TV rollout.


Digital terrestrial TV supposedly will enable French families to receive fifteen free nationwide channels, regional programs, plus fifteen pay channels.


The CSA earlier this year awarded the necessary licenses to candidates for the available frequencies, which include most of France's existing government and commercial TV companies as well as some new players.