Geneva, 15 April 2011: The EBU adopted Principles for Internet-Connected and Hybrid Television* today which, if applied, could deliver lower costs, greater choice and a better viewing experience for consumers. It called on all stakeholders to support and respect the principles.

The EBU believes that new hybrid systems will only deliver their full potential if they use technology that is harmonized across Europe and allows broadcasters and other content providers to link broadcast and on-demand content such as catch-up TV.

“Only common solutions will unlock the full potential of hybrid and connected TV and deliver the best possible experience for viewers and success for hybrid systems,”
said the EBU Director General, Ingrid Deltenre. She continued:
“In addition, content must be easily accessible and displayed as the broadcaster intended.”

Other issues raised in the policy document include the preservation of a safe viewing environment, including the protection of minors and copyright and data protection.

* Click here to dowload the full text of Principles for Internet-Connected and Hybrid Television

Also available here: EBU Viewpoint "The future is hybrid"

Note to editors:
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU)
The EBU serves 85 national media organizations in 56 countries in and around Europe. It represents its Members and promotes the values and distinctiveness of public service media in Europe and around the world. The Eurovision and Euroradio networks deliver news, sports, events and music to EBU Members and other media organizations. Services to Members range from legal advice, technical standardization and development to coproduction and exchange of quality European content.  For more information about the EBU: www.ebu.ch and www.eurovision.net/