Analysis of the technologies enabling the broadcast convergence

This paper analyses the technology change and its impact on the broadcast sector. Different elements of the television ecosystem, such as access technologies, platforms and end-user device technologies, has been reviewed and their evolution discussed, including Internet Protocol Television and Over The Top applications. Moreover, the potential interelation between traditional broadcasters and new mobile access technologies has been pointed out in a convergence scenario. Television, therefore, has stopped being a media exclusively managed by the broadcasters, which must adapt to new technologies in order to keep the leads. The key role played by the spectrum regulatory framework is also stressed. The paper concludes that the evolution and integration of technologies, with the arrival of new technologies which allow the convergence of networks and services, is transforming the industry and the actors' relationships. In fact, it is required to use the technology to reach a wider audience from different platforms in an integrative manner.