Italy approves prominence guidelines
October 14, 2024
From Branislav Pekic in Rome
Agcom, Italy’s Communications Regulatory Authority, has approved guidelines to ensure that TV and media services of general interest occupy a prominent position on Smart TV screens.
These guidelines balance the need for prominence with users’ freedom to customise their viewing experience, as outlined in European media freedom regulations. They establish criteria for classifying a service as “of general interest”, ensuring they receive adequate prominence on all reception devices and platforms.
The guidelines require the inclusion of four icons on the home page of devices that allow access to these services: icons for national broadcasters distributed online, satellite TV broadcasters, local TV broadcasters transmitted via DTT, and online radio broadcasters.
Additionally, the regulator will develop measures to highlight radios on devices capable of receiving audio content, including car radios. AgCom will also evaluate emerging technologies, such as the DVB-I standard, that aim to bridge the gap between over-the-air and internet-based broadcasts.
These guidelines represent a significant step in ensuring the continued prominence of traditional broadcasting in the country and protecting the principles of pluralism, freedom of expression, cultural diversity and effective information dissemination.
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