New Delhi: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is working towards launching inter-operable Set-Top Boxes (STBs) This new technology will allow subscribers to changes their cable TV operator or DTH player, without changing the STB.
RS Sharma, Chairman of TRAI informed a leading daily that TRAI is working to introduce inter-operability on STBs, to make them more like a telecom device.
At the moment, subscription and installation charges for a new connection are high, because the cost of STB is involved every time anyone changes its operator, as new STB will be installed depending on the connection taken by the customer. But with this initiative of TRAI, it will reduce the installation charges, as it will allow viewers to changes their cable TV service provider without changing the STB.
Sharma also informed that TRAI will consult with the stakeholders and will set up standards so that the STBs are not tied to a particular service provider. It should be the same philosophy as it exists in the telecom sector.
However, the operators are skeptical about the proposed move as the existing set-to-boxes are not equipped with the technology that allows the subscriber on port from one operator to another. Moreover, the consumers may have to spend more to buy new STBs with updated technology.
