ENG-2014 — Page 352

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The Media, Communications and Information Technology

In 2014, RTHK launched four new mobile applications: 'RTHK Memory, 'RTHK mine, 'RTHK Screen' and 'RTHK Vox.

Recent Developments

The government encourages the deployment of DTT broadcasting technology in Hong Kong to enhance spectrum efficiency and enable the provision of television services of higher quality. The two incumbent terrestrial television broadcasters launched DTT, including the broadcasting of free HD television programmes and channels in 2007. Currently, over 80 per cent of Hong Kong households receive digital television. The two broadcasters achieved digital coverage of at least 99 per cent of the population by the end of 2014, approximately the same as that of analogue television broadcasting. Having regard to the latest development of DTT in Hong Kong and technical considerations, the government decided in 2014 to revise the working target for switching off analogue television broadcasting from end-2015 to end-2020, with a review of the target date in 2017-18.

In October 2013 the Chief Executive in Council granted approval-in-principle to two applicants for a domestic free television programme service licence. After reviewing further information submitted by the two applicants, the CA will submit its recommendations to the Chief Executive in Council on whether they should each be formally granted a licence under the Broadcasting Ordinance.

Postal Services

With its extensive postal infrastructure, Hongkong Post provides an efficient, reliable and affordable postal service to the public. In 2014, it handled 1.22 billion postal items, of which 84.7 per cent were local items.

Enhancements to Hongkong Post's services in 2014 included: extending the e-Express service to Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom providing counter collection service at all post offices for online purchases made on Taobao; and offering Speedpost as a shipping solution on Small Order Zone, Hong Kong Trade Development Council's new online B2B e-commerce platform.

Central Mail Centre

The new Central Mail Centre, fully commissioned in December, amalgamates the International Mail Centre and the sorting office at the General Post Office into an integrated facility with a green building design. The centre's upgraded mail sorting automation systems help enhance operational efficiency.

Retail Network

In September, Hongkong Post embarked on the installation of a new Integrated Postal Services System in all post offices and backend mail processing units to automate counter operation and to facilitate resource planning and mail processing. The installation programme will be completed in 2015.

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