Following the Live Test 5G Broadcast which took place during a major event in summer 2024 and marked the world’s first large-scale 5G Broadcast experiment, TDF, which represents stakeholders from across the media and entertainment sphere, has published a white paper on the technology and its deployment in France.
The white paper follows a reflection on the test’s results, and aims to align stakeholders both in France and across Europe around a common vision to ensure 5G Broadcast forms a cornerstone in the modernisation of Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT). Identifying the extent of demand for the technology, backed by “a united and fast-structuring ecosystem,” the group’s intention is to build on this momentum and accelerate both integration into production chains and widespread adoption.
Enabling compatible smartphones to receive linear television programmes without Wi-fi, 5G Broadcast enables pluralistic, regulated and secure service provision while reducing energy consumption, said the group. It is also expected to widen reach across younger demographics by adapting to their consumption patterns. Research undertaken for TDF by Kantar highlighted strong interest in France for watching live TV on mobile devices, particularly among the 15-49 age group.
The TDF’s working group into the project explored various potential approaches to rolling out 5G Broadcast in France, including regulatory frameworks, technical configurations, deployment strategies and a timeline for its introduction. Both France and the European Union are preparing to update their report into DTT usage ahead of the extension of frequency allocations until 2031. The white paper highlights the benefits of maintaining robust, open and resilient terrestrial broadcast as a complement to IP networks, particularly during times of peak demand.
Commenting on the publication, Pascale Varnière, director of the audiovisual business unit, said, “This white paper on 5G Broadcast marks a new milestone for DTT. This technology meets the new uses of television while ensuring reliable and sovereign broadcasting. Modernising DTT must be a priority to guarantee universal access to information, support innovation, and preserve our independence in the face of major platforms. TDF is fully committed to driving this evolution for the benefit of all.”
The white paper is available to download here.
