Communications, the Media and Information Technology | 371
launched applications for tablet computers including 'RTHK Prime' for iPad users and social media applications such as 'RTHK Thumb' and 'RTHK Node' for iPhone users. These widened the reach of RTHK productions to local and overseas users for their enjoyment anytime, anywhere by any device.
Recent Developments
The Government encourages the deployment of digital terrestrial television broadcasting technology in Hong Kong to enhance spectrum efficiency and enable the provision of new services such as high-definition television (HDTV) broadcasting. The two incumbent terrestrial broadcasters, Asia Television Limited and Television Broadcasts Limited, launched digital terrestrial television, including the broadcasting of free HDTV programmes and channels in 2007. According to a public survey conducted in December 2011, 68.6 per cent of Hong Kong households were receiving digital television via set-top boxes, integrated digital television sets and computers. The two broadcasters expanded further their digital coverage to 96 per cent in 2011 and aim at optimising and extending the digital network for an ultimate coverage at least on par with that of the analogue television broadcasting. Having regard to the actual coverage and take-up rate of digital terrestrial television, the Government decided in mid-2011 to defer the working target for switching off analogue television broadcasting from the end of 2012 to the end of 2015.
In March 2011, the Government granted sound broadcasting licences to three commercial operators, including one existing licensee providing analogue radio service, to provide territory-wide round-the-clock DAB services in Hong Kong. The three licensees together with RTHK will launch a total of 18 DAB channels in stages.
The BA has received three applications for domestic free television programme service licences. The Government is handling these applications in accordance with the Broadcasting Ordinance and established procedures.
Setting up a Unified Regulator for Telecommunications and Broadcasting
The markets for broadcasting and telecommunications are converging rapidly and the Government sees a need to establish a unified regulator for the two sectors to keep pace with the changing environment and meet the regulatory challenges. With the passage of the Communications Authority Bill in June 2011, the Government will establish the unified regulator, namely the Communications Authority (CA), with effect from April 1, 2012 by merging the functions of the Telecommunications Authority and the Broadcasting Authority.
Information Technology
Digital 21 Strategy
The Government is committed to making Hong Kong a leading digital city. To keep Hong Kong at the forefront of the development of information and communications technology (ICT), it has formulated a Digital 21 Strategy which is updated continually in tandem with technological advancements and the community's changing needs. This has produced the right environment,
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