A Bold Step Toward NextGen TV
In a significant move towards modernizing broadcast standards, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has formally petitioned the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish a timeline for phasing out the current ATSC 1.0 standard in favor of the advanced ATSC 3.0, also known as NextGen TV.
The proposal outlines a transition plan where the top 55 markets would adopt ATSC 3.0 by February 2028, with remaining stations following by February 2030. This transition is expected to enhance broadcast capabilities, improve spectrum efficiency, and introduce new revenue opportunities for broadcasters.
Why ATSC 3.0? The Benefits of Transitioning
Since its authorization in 2017, ATSC 3.0 has been deployed in markets covering approximately 76% of the United States, (Source: www.watchnextgentv.com) offering viewers enhanced features including:
-High dynamic range (HDR) video for superior picture quality
-Immersive Dolby Atmos audio for a better sound experience
-Interactive services that engage viewers in new ways
The current practice of a single station broadcasting the 3.0 feed for multiple stations in a market has limited the spectrum available for these features. A complete transition to ATSC 3.0 is expected to unlock its full potential and allow broadcasters to explore new revenue streams through datacasting.
Key Milestones in the ATSC 1.0 Sunset Timeline
The NAB has proposed a phased approach to transitioning from ATSC 1.0 to ATSC 3.0:
-February 2028 – The top 55 U.S. markets should complete the transition to ATSC 3.0.
-February 2030 – All remaining stations should transition to ATSC 3.0.
This gradual approach ensures that both broadcasters and consumers have ample time to adjust to the new standard while minimizing disruption.
Regulatory Updates and Consumer Readiness
To facilitate this transition, the NAB has recommended updates to existing regulations, including mandating that all television receivers sold in the U.S. be equipped with ATSC 3.0 tuners by February 2028. This measure aims to ensure that consumers can continue accessing broadcast programming seamlessly during and after the transition.
As the industry shifts toward ATSC 3.0, broadcasters and manufacturers must align their strategies with these new regulatory requirements to remain competitive.
How DTVKit is Supporting the ATSC 3.0 Transition
At DTVKit, we recognise the critical importance of this transition and are committed to supporting the industry through it. In Q4, 2024, we integrated the ATSC 3.0 software stack into our suite of broadcast software components, reinforcing our dedication to driving innovation in broadcast software.
We provide royalty-free, source code access to the latest standards-based software components, enabling a smoother transition to NextGen TV. Whether you’re a chipset vendor, device manufacturer, or software developer, DTVKit provides the tools and expertise needed to adopt ATSC 3.0 successfully.
Preparing for an IP-Centric Broadcasting Future
As the industry moves towards an IP-centric future, the adoption of standards like ATSC 3.0 and DVB-NIP will redefine how broadcasters deliver content and how consumers experience television. Broadcasters can integrate interactive features, including on-demand content, live polls, and viewer participation, delivered through over-the-air (OTA) and via internet connections.
At DTVKit, we are committed to providing the necessary software solutions to support these advancements, ensuring our members remain at the forefront of this technological evolution.
Embracing the Next Generation of TV
The NAB’s petition marks a pivotal step in the evolution of broadcast technology, and DTVKit is proud to be part of this transformative journey. By offering robust software solutions, we empower our members to navigate and lead in this new broadcasting era.
As ATSC 3.0 adoption accelerates, now is the time to prepare. Whether you’re upgrading your broadcast infrastructure or developing NextGen TV-ready devices, DTVKit’s ATSC 3.0 software stack can help ensure a seamless transition.
