IPTV: The dependencies for success

Often hailed as one of the “next big things”, IPTV is not just on the radar for a number of major companies in the communications sector, but is seen as a key element in their portfolio of service offerings. However, it faces a number of challenges in an increasingly converged marketplace if it is to enjoy a successful take up by consumers; whether on its own or as part of a “quadplay” package with television, broadband, home telephone and mobile telephone communications all through one supplier. IPTV also faces an uncertain regulatory future. There is a clear conflict between UK industry and Ofcom, supporting a regulatory light touch on the one hand; and the European Commission wanting to extend current broadcasting regulatory frameworks on the other. This paper will examine how IPTV is likely to be exploited by suppliers and just why it is likely to be of interest to consumers. It will also consider the proposed future regulatory frameworks that may affect IPTV and its inter-relationship with commercial exploitation and consumer take up.