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Category: Broadcast

  • AI Networks boost InfiniBand, but Ethernet holds market lead

    AI Networks boost InfiniBand, but Ethernet holds market lead

    InfiniBand switch sales in AI back-end networks surged in 2Q 2025. Nevertheless, Ethernet maintains the lead, an outstanding achievement for a technology that comprised only less than 20 percent of the market just two years ago, according to Dell’Oro.

    “The rapid ramp of NVIDIA’s Blackwell Ultra platform fueled strong demand for 800 Gbps InfiniBand switches, propelling a surge in InfiniBand switch sales in 2Q 2025,” said Sameh Boujelbene, Vice President at Dell’Oro Group. “Nevertheless, Ethernet is still maintaining the lead, catapulted by the rapid adoption in some large AI clusters built by the hyperscalers as well as the new emerging Neo Cloud Service Providers,” added Boujelbene.

    Additional highlights from the 2Q 2025 Data Center Switch – AI Back-end Networks Quarterly Report:

    • Celestica, Nvidia and Arista led the Ethernet segment, collectively comprising nearly two-thirds of the Ethernet sales in the market.
    • 800 Gbps switches comprised the bulk of the Ethernet switch shipments and revenues in AI back-end networks during the quarter.

    Dell’Oro

  • EchoStar 5G probe ends as FCC approves AT&T, SpaceX deals

    EchoStar 5G probe ends as FCC approves AT&T, SpaceX deals

    The U.S. Federal Communications Commission will terminate its investigation into EchoStar’s 5G buildout obligations in the country, according to a letter from the agency’s chair.

    The expected move follows EchoStar’s $17 billion deal to sell wireless spectrum to billionaire Elon Musk’s SpaceX and two weeks after it announced a $23 billion spectrum sale to AT&T.

    FCC Chair Brendan Carr wrote in a letter to EchoStar Chair Charles Ergen on Monday that he had asked the agency staff to close the investigation and conclude that EchoStar has satisfied its buildout obligations.

    Carr told reporters Tuesday the deal could be a “potential game changer for the American consumer.”

    He said it promises to free up new spectrum and bring new sources of competition to the wireless market, noting EchoStar’s Boost Mobile brand has lost 2 million consumers in recent years.

    Carr said he did not think Boost was putting much competitive pressure on the wireless market.

    “I think that status quo wasn’t working,” Carr said. “We have a chance now to do something different… I think you can make a case that this is much more competitive.”

    Carr told EchoStar in May that the FCC was investigating the company’s compliance obligations to provide 5G service in the United States, questioning EchoStar’s buildout extension and mobile-satellite service.

    Carr said he also directed the staff to confirm EchoStar’s exclusive rights to a key spectrum block for ground and satellite use.

    EchoStar, co-founded by telecommunications entrepreneur Ergen, faced the probe over slow deployment of 5G services.

    SpaceX had also asked the FCC to review EchoStar’s spectrum holdings, saying the telecommunications company might be “warehousing” valuable spectrum, which is not used to provide services.

    The transactions with AT&T and SpaceX are still subject to FCC approval.

    In June, President Donald Trump prodded EchoStar, parent of Dish TV, and Carr to reach a deal over the fate of the company’s wireless spectrum licenses.

    U.S. satellite TV provider DirecTV terminated its agreement to acquire EchoStar’s satellite television business last year, which includes rival Dish TV, over a failed debt-exchange offer. Reuters

  • AUV Innovations expands Zee Media Holdings to 6.23%

    AUV Innovations expands Zee Media Holdings to 6.23%

    Zee Media Corporation (ZMCL) share price rose almost 2 pecent in intra-day deals on Tuesday, September 9 after the company’s promoter entity (Auv Innovations LLP) acquired a 0.8% stake in the company, thereby boosting investor confidence and sentiment.

    The stock has been witnessing strong buying interest as the company’s promoter entity, Auv Innovations LLP, acquired a 0.8 percent stake (50 lakh shares) on September 5 through open market transactions. The shares were purchased at ₹12.37 per share in a block deal from Miloeux Media & Entertainment. This promoter activity has boosted investor confidence in the counter, particularly as the company has recently reported encouraging financial results.

    With this purchase, AUV Innovations increased its stake in Zee Media Corporation from 3,39,84,375 shares (5.43% of total shareholding) to 3,89,84,375 shares (6.23% of total shareholding). Currently AUV holds shares in the firm worth ₹6,18,74,282.00.

    Late last month, on August 21, AUV Innovations LLP had also announced the acquisition of 1,00,00,000 equity shares of Zee Media Corporation making its shareholding in the firm over 5 percent.

    Zee Media Q1 Results
    Zee Media reported a net loss of ₹8.81 crore in Q1 FY26, an improvement from the ₹10.38 crore loss posted in Q1 FY25. Revenue from operations grew 3.63 percent to ₹182.36 crore compared to ₹175.96 crore a year ago, while total income increased 3.24 percent to ₹183.11 crore from ₹177.35 crore. The company also saw its expenses decline to ₹194.55 crore from ₹199.30 crore in the same period last year.

    ZMCL, a pioneer in the Indian mass media industry, operates the country’s largest news network. Incorporated on August 27, 1999, the company is headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

    Zee Media Stock Performance
    The stock rose as much as 1.8 percent n intra-day deals to ₹12.60. It is now over 52 percent away from its 52-week high of ₹26.29, hit in October 2024. Meanwhile, it touched its 52-week low of ₹10.60 in April 2025.

    In the last 1 year, the stock has lost 5 percent while it is down 13 percent in the last 6 months and 9 percent in the last 3 months. LiveMint

  • India OTT Trends: Mobile first, CTV on the rise

    India OTT Trends: Mobile first, CTV on the rise

    India’s Over-The-Top (OTT) entertainment sector has witnessed explosive growth over the last decade, driven by improved internet penetration, affordable smartphones, and diverse content offerings. However, a significant characteristic defines this landscape: mobile-first consumption. Even as Connected TVs (CTV) register increased adoption, particularly in urban areas, the majority of users across India continue to access OTT platforms through their smartphones.

    This article explores the current state of OTT in India, the factors behind mobile-first dominance, the gradual rise of CTV, subscription trends, regional content’s influence, and the future outlook for both formats. With millions of viewers in smaller cities and cost-sensitive regions, mobile remains the preferred device for streaming, while premium segments adopt CTV for enhanced viewing experiences.

    India’s OTT Market at a Glance
    According to TRAI’s data as of May 2025, India boasts over 930 million mobile internet subscriptions, whereas fixed broadband connections hover around 7.79 million, which typically support multi-screen and CTV setups. This disparity reflects the accessibility, affordability, and convenience of mobile devices over larger, high-cost internet infrastructure in many parts of the country.

    The OTT market in India is estimated to reach USD 8 billion by 2026, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 20-25%. Despite this impressive growth, the distribution of streaming devices reveals a clear pattern:

    • 80%+ users stream via smartphones, especially in tier-II and tier-III cities.
    • CTV adoption is rising, but remains concentrated in metros and affluent households.
    • Ad-supported models and low-cost subscription plans dominate the entry-level market.

    Why Mobile Streaming Leads the OTT Revolution
    1. Affordability and Accessibility
    Mobile data plans in India are among the cheapest globally, encouraging consumption even in lower-income demographics. Devices priced under ₹10,000 offer functional streaming capabilities, whereas CTVs and broadband infrastructure require higher upfront investments and recurring costs.

    2. Portability and Convenience
    Streaming on-the-go appeals to users who commute, travel, or lack dedicated spaces for TV viewing. Mobile-first platforms like MX Player, JioHotstar, and SonyLIV have leveraged this lifestyle pattern, providing entertainment wherever the user is.

    3. Regional Content Drives Engagement
    Localized content in languages such as Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Bhojpuri, Punjabi, and Marathi is a major driver for mobile usage. Platforms like Chaupal, which focus on vernacular entertainment, report that users prefer smaller, affordable plans and often engage with content in short bursts during daily routines.

    4. Social Sharing and Community Engagement
    Mobile devices integrate seamlessly with social media apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, enabling users to share links, reviews, and recommendations. Viral clips, user-generated content, and meme-based marketing further amplify mobile consumption.

    The Emerging Role of Connected TVs (CTV)
    While mobile dominates entry-level consumption, CTV adoption is steadily growing, especially among:

    • Urban households with higher disposable income.
    • Families seeking shared viewing experiences.
    • Viewers demanding premium content in high resolution.

    Key Features Driving CTV Adoption:

    • 4K streaming and better picture quality
    • Ad-free subscription models
    • Multi-device support and family plans
    • Live sports and event-based content
    • Smart interfaces and voice-enabled controls

    Premium services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, and SonyLiv are expanding their presence on smart TVs, offering exclusive originals and curated libraries tailored to urban users.

    Subscription Trends: Paid, Free, and Hybrid Models
    1. Paid Subscriptions – Plateauing but Premium-Focused
    The cost of acquiring customers and producing original content has driven platforms to increase subscription rates. However, price hikes are carefully calibrated to avoid losing budget-conscious users. Many platforms now offer tiered plans, where mobile-only subscriptions start as low as ₹49 per month, while family or multi-screen plans range up to ₹999 per month.

    2. Ad-Supported Free Streaming
    Ad-supported video-on-demand (AVOD) models fill the affordability gap. Platforms like Amazon MX Player, JioHotstar, and ZEE5 offer free libraries but rely on older content, syndicated shows, or reruns to attract casual viewers. These services act as funnels, encouraging users to upgrade to premium experiences.

    3. Hybrid Models
    Some platforms combine both subscription and advertising, providing lower entry points while offering upgrade paths for uninterrupted viewing. These models help platforms retain customers while generating ad revenue.

    Regional Content: The Heart of Mobile Streaming
    India’s linguistic diversity shapes OTT consumption more than any other factor. In regions where content availability in native languages is scarce, mobile platforms have emerged as cultural hubs.

    Why Regional Content Works:

    • Users trust platforms offering familiar stories and actors.
    • Short-form content aligns with casual viewing habits.
    • Local festivals, politics, and social issues create engagement opportunities.
    • Regional advertisers target audiences more effectively through localized campaigns.

    Platforms like Chaupal, Hoichoi, Aha, and Sun NXT are leading the charge by tailoring content to regional preferences, particularly on mobile-first plans.

    Challenges for OTT Growth

    1. Rising Content Costs – Original programming, licensing, and marketing expenses are pushing subscription prices upward.
    2. Infrastructure Gaps – Broadband penetration is still limited outside major cities, restricting CTV expansion.
    3. Data Privacy and Cybersecurity – Mobile streaming often relies on public networks, exposing users to potential risks.
    4. Content Saturation – The abundance of platforms has made content discovery a challenge, leading to viewer fatigue.
    5. Ad Blockers – Increased use of ad blockers affects AVOD revenue models.

    What the Future Holds
    The OTT landscape in India is expected to evolve along two distinct paths:

    Mobile-First Expansion

    • Continued investment in affordable, data-efficient streaming solutions.
    • Regional content partnerships and vernacular creator ecosystems.
    • Social media-driven marketing and influencer collaborations.

    CTV Premium Growth

    • Enhanced home entertainment experiences through smart TVs.
    • Integration of gaming, education, and fitness content.
    • Cross-platform subscriptions bundling OTT with broadband services.

    Industry experts anticipate that by 2030, CTV may capture 20–25% of OTT consumption in urban areas, while mobile streaming will continue to serve 70%+ of users nationwide.

    Conclusion
    India’s OTT ecosystem reflects the diversity of its viewers—cost-sensitive rural populations embracing mobile devices, and urban families exploring premium CTV experiences. Mobile-first consumption remains the driving force behind growth, supported by affordable data, regional content, and on-the-go accessibility. At the same time, CTV adoption is slowly reshaping viewing habits among premium users seeking immersive entertainment.

    For platforms aiming to scale in this competitive environment, understanding regional preferences, offering flexible plans, and balancing paid and ad-supported models will be key to long-term success. The streaming revolution in India is far from over—it’s only getting started.
    The NewsBit Bureau

  • U.K. streaming revenue to surpass Pay TV by 2029

    U.K. streaming revenue to surpass Pay TV by 2029

    The United Kingdom’s entertainment market is on track to grow in 2025, with total consumer spending projected to increase 2 percent to £11.4 billion (U.S. $13.1 billion), according to Futuresource Consulting’s latest Video Insights U.K. report.

    Subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) remains the strongest driver of growth, bolstered by a rebound in box office revenue and signs of stabilization in the transactional video sector.

    “We’re halfway through the decade, and we’re seeing a market continuing to climb,” said James Duvall, a principal analyst at Futuresource Consulting. “SVOD continues to expand, though not in isolation, and the interplay with pay-TV, the recovery of cinema, and renewed loyalty in transactional all tell a story of resilience and evolution.”

    Futuresource expects SVOD spending to climb 6 percent in 2025, accounting for about 40 percent of overall market value. Subscription stacking remains a defining trend, with more than 52 million subscriptions across U.K. households, an increase of 12 million since 2020.

    That growth is being driven by price changes and service tiering, as platforms appeal to wider audiences with premium and ad-supported packages.

    Despite streaming’s momentum, pay television continues to hold the single largest share of consumer spend, representing 45 percent of the market in 2025. Futuresource forecasts that SVOD will overtake pay-TV revenues by 2029, but legacy platforms remain resilient, supported by entrenched viewing habits and the appeal of live sports.

    Most British public service broadcasters, like the BBC, ITV, Channel 5 and Paramount-owned Channel 5, offer premium live sports rights over the air. The rest are relegated to traditional pay TV channels like Sky Sports and TNT Sports; both offer their premium sports on streaming platforms, which simulcast their cable network feeds.

    The transactional video market, spanning both digital and physical formats, is beginning to stabilize. Digital sell-through accounts for nearly two-thirds of spending, with premium formats helping raise transaction values. On the physical side, Blu-ray continues to dominate packaged sales, representing close to 60 percent of the segment. While overall sales volumes remain in decline, a loyal collector base has helped slow the erosion.

    Looking ahead, Futuresource projects modest but steady growth for the UK video entertainment industry, with a compound annual growth rate of just over 1.2 percent between 2025 and 2029.

    “The U.K. market is no longer defined by a simple transition from pay-TV to streaming,” Duvall said. “It’s all about striking a balance, between subscription and ad-funded, between streaming and cinema, between digital and physical. Over the next few years, we expect that interplay to become a structural feature and shape the growth paths of every segment in this industry.” TheDesk

  • Competition or Credibility? The TV ratings debate

    Competition or Credibility? The TV ratings debate

    India’s television industry is facing a turning point as the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) proposes amendments to the 2014 Policy Guidelines for Television Rating Agencies. The ministry’s objective is to foster innovation and competition by allowing multiple rating agencies and opening up the industry to new players. However, these changes have triggered widespread concern among broadcasters, advertisers, and measurement bodies, who fear that relaxing rules on conflict of interest could damage the credibility of the ratings system and undermine trust.

    What Are the Proposed Amendments?
    The MIB has suggested deleting two important clauses from the existing guidelines:

    1. Clause 1.5 – This clause currently prevents individuals with direct commercial interests in broadcasting or advertising from being on the board of rating agencies.
    2. Clause 1.7 – It bars ownership overlap between broadcasters, advertisers, ad agencies, and measurement companies.

    The ministry argues that removing these clauses will encourage competition, invite global expertise, and help the industry adapt to changing viewer behavior driven by digital platforms and new technology.

    Why Broadcasters Are Opposing the Changes
    Industry bodies such as the Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation (IBDF) and the News Broadcasters and Digital Association (NBDA) believe that the amendments could compromise the integrity of audience measurement.

    • They insist that the ratings ecosystem must remain independent and not-for-profit.
    • Ownership or board involvement from stakeholders with commercial interests could lead to manipulation and unfair advantage.
    • Allowing multiple proprietary measurement models could fragment the market, reduce transparency, and create monopolistic behavior.

    The All India Digital Cable Federation (AIDCF) has called these amendments a “dismantling of vital safeguards,” warning that they could pave the way for biased data, reduced trust, and unfair competition.

    The Risk of Fragmentation and Monopoly
    A core concern is the potential rise of data-driven monopolies where large broadcasters or tech giants influence measurement tools to favor their platforms. With separate rating systems introduced by device manufacturers, OTT services, and advertisers, audiences might face confusion over content performance, affecting advertising spend and investment decisions.

    The Government’s Stand
    The MIB maintains that innovation and competition are essential in an era where digital consumption patterns are reshaping the media landscape. It has invited feedback from stakeholders, with the deadline for responses already passed. Now, the ministry must weigh the benefits of openness against the risks to credibility and trust.

    Conclusion
    The government’s intent to modernize India’s television ratings framework is understandable given the rise of OTT platforms and technological advancements. However, credibility, transparency, and trust remain pillars that cannot be compromised. A balanced approach that promotes competition while safeguarding against conflicts of interest is essential. The outcome of this debate will shape the future of audience measurement in India and influence how advertisers and broadcasters navigate the evolving media ecosystem.
    The NewsBit Bureau

  • Internet users in India top 100 cr, up 3.48%

    Internet users in India top 100 cr, up 3.48%

    India has officially crossed a historic digital milestone: the number of internet subscribers has surpassed 100 crore (1 billion) as of June 2025. According to the latest telecom data, the March–June 2025 quarter recorded a 3.48% growth in internet users, showing how deeply connectivity has penetrated across the country.

    This achievement not only cements India’s place as one of the world’s largest online populations but also reflects the success of Digital India initiatives, affordable data plans, and rural internet expansion.

    India’s Journey to 100 Crore Internet Users
    Just over a decade ago, internet access was limited to urban centers and a small percentage of the population. However, the introduction of low-cost smartphones, cheaper data tariffs, and government-backed digital inclusion programs transformed the landscape.

    • In 2015, India had around 30 crore users.
    • By 2020, the base had grown to 70 crore, largely fueled by the Jio revolution.
    • By mid-2025, India crossed the 100 crore milestone, marking one of the fastest internet adoption journeys globally.

    Rural vs. Urban Internet Growth
    One of the key drivers of this surge is rural connectivity.

    • Urban areas already have high penetration levels, with nearly 70–75% of the population connected.
    • Rural areas, however, have been the growth engine in recent years, thanks to:
      • Affordable smartphones under ₹5,000
      • BharatNet fiber rollout in villages
      • Regional-language apps and OTT platforms
      • Digital payment adoption through UPI in rural economies

    This rural shift is critical because more than 65% of India’s population still resides outside urban areas, meaning the digital story is far from over.

    Mobile Internet Dominance
    Out of the 100 crore internet subscribers, the vast majority are mobile internet users. India’s internet boom has been driven primarily by:

    • Low-cost 4G plans from Reliance Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea
    • Rapid 5G rollout in tier-1 and tier-2 cities since 2023
    • Bundled OTT and app services with mobile data packs

    Broadband Internet (Fixed-Line)
    While mobile dominates, fixed broadband has also been growing steadily.

    • Currently, broadband subscribers stand at around 40–50 million, a fraction of total users.
    • However, demand is rising due to remote work, online learning, and gaming.
    • Fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) expansion from JioFiber, Airtel Xstream, and BSNL Bharat Fiber is set to accelerate growth.

    What’s Driving This Surge?

    1. Affordable Data Costs
      • India continues to enjoy one of the lowest mobile data rates globally, averaging under ₹10/GB.
    2. Smartphone Penetration
      • Over 800 million smartphone users now form the backbone of India’s internet base.
    3. Digital Payments & E-commerce
      • UPI transactions cross billions each month, pushing even first-time users online.
    4. Government Push
      • Programs like Digital India, BharatNet, and PM-WANI Wi-Fi hotspots have expanded reach.
    5. OTT & Entertainment Demand
      • Streaming platforms, regional content, and gaming are keeping Indians online longer than ever.

    The Global Context
    India’s internet subscriber base is now second only to China, which has around 1.1–1.2 billion users. However, India stands out due to:

    • Higher growth rate compared to mature markets.
    • Cheaper data costs than global averages.
    • Larger untapped rural market still waiting to come online.

    This means India’s digital economy is set to become a key driver of global internet traffic in the next few years.

    Challenges in India’s Internet Growth
    Despite the achievement, several challenges remain:

    1. Digital Divide
      • Urban–rural disparities persist, with many rural users still lacking high-speed connections.
    2. Network Quality Issues
      • Call drops, slow speeds in congested areas, and inconsistent coverage remain common complaints.
    3. Cybersecurity Concerns
      • With more first-time users online, India faces rising risks of cyber fraud, phishing, and scams.
    4. Affordability of Devices
      • While data is cheap, the cost of smartphones and laptops is still a barrier for some low-income groups.

    The Road Ahead: India’s Digital Future
    With internet users crossing 100 crore, the focus will now shift to quality, inclusivity, and advanced services.

    • 5G Expansion: Wider rollout in tier-2 and tier-3 cities will boost adoption.
    • Digital Public Infrastructure: Platforms like UPI, Aadhaar, ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) will create new digital ecosystems.
    • Regional Content Boom: Vernacular internet will dominate the next wave of growth.
    • AI & IoT: As AI tools and smart devices become mainstream, internet dependence will grow further.
    • Rural Digital Literacy: Awareness programs will ensure new users benefit safely from connectivity.

    Expert Take
    Industry experts believe the next 10 crore users will be the hardest to reach, as they are mostly from remote or economically weaker sections. Bridging this gap will require:

    • Affordable entry-level devices
    • Community Wi-Fi models
    • Government and private sector collaboration

    If India succeeds, it could not only expand its user base but also redefine global digital participation.

    Conclusion
    India’s internet subscriber base crossing 100 crore is a milestone that highlights both the success of digital transformation and the potential of untapped markets.

    With a 3.48% quarterly growth rate, expanding rural access, and government-backed digital infrastructure, India is well-positioned to drive the next wave of global internet adoption.

    The coming years will focus not just on numbers but on ensuring reliable, inclusive, and safe digital connectivity for every Indian.
    The NewsBit Bureau

  • GTPL targets big growth in cable and broadband

    GTPL targets big growth in cable and broadband

    In India’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, competition in both cable TV and broadband services is intensifying. One of the country’s leading multi-system operators, GTPL Hathway, has set ambitious expansion goals: 5 lakh new cable TV subscribers and 1 lakh broadband users annually.

    The move underlines the company’s confidence in the continued demand for linear television services alongside growing interest in high-speed broadband connectivity, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

    GTPL Hathway: A Snapshot
    GTPL Hathway is one of the largest cable TV and broadband service providers in India, with a strong presence in western and eastern states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Bihar.

    The company operates in:

    • Cable TV – Offering digital cable services to millions of homes.
    • Broadband – Providing high-speed internet, increasingly bundled with OTT services.

    GTPL has built its reputation on affordable packages, regional content focus, and last-mile connectivity in areas often underserved by bigger telecom operators.

    The Growth Targets
    According to company projections, GTPL aims to add:

    • 5 lakh cable TV subscribers per year
    • 1 lakh broadband subscribers per year

    This translates into 6 lakh new subscribers annually, a significant boost to its already large base.

    Why These Numbers Matter

    • Cable TV Market Size – India has over 100 million cable households, and despite OTT growth, cable continues to dominate due to affordability and regional content demand.
    • Broadband Growth Potential – With government focus on Digital India and increasing internet penetration, broadband remains one of the fastest-growing segments.

    Cable TV Still in Demand
    While global markets are seeing a cord-cutting trend, India presents a unique scenario. Many households continue to rely on cable TV due to:

    • Affordable subscription costs compared to OTT bundles.
    • Regional language channels that resonate with local audiences.
    • Family viewing habits, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.

    By targeting 5 lakh new subscribers each year, GTPL is betting that cable TV is here to stay, at least in the medium term.

    Broadband: The Future Growth Engine
    The demand for high-speed internet has surged since the pandemic, driven by:

    • Remote work and online education
    • Gaming and OTT consumption
    • E-commerce and digital banking adoption

    GTPL’s focus on adding 1 lakh broadband users annually shows its intent to strengthen its role in India’s fast-growing home internet market.

    The company is expected to expand fiber networks and offer bundled plans with OTT subscriptions to stay competitive with JioFiber, Airtel Xstream, and BSNL Bharat Fiber.

    Market Competition
    GTPL’s expansion plan comes at a time when competition is stiff:

    • Jio and Airtel dominate the broadband segment with aggressive pricing.
    • OTT platforms are pulling younger audiences away from traditional TV.
    • Regional cable operators still hold sway in smaller towns.

    However, GTPL has an edge in localized service delivery and last-mile connectivity, enabling it to penetrate markets where bigger players struggle.

    Industry Outlook
    1. Cable TV Market in India

    • Despite OTT growth, cable TV is expected to retain a strong base in India due to affordability and localized content.
    • Growth is expected to be moderate, but operators like GTPL will benefit from consolidation of smaller players.

    2. Broadband Market in India

    • India’s fixed broadband penetration is still under 10%, leaving significant headroom for growth.
    • Fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) expansion is expected to accelerate, supported by both private investments and government initiatives.

    Challenges Ahead

    1. OTT Competition
      • With platforms like Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, and JioCinema, younger viewers are shifting online.
      • GTPL must innovate with hybrid packages combining TV + OTT.
    2. High Capex for Broadband Expansion
      • Laying fiber networks in new areas requires heavy investment.
      • Partnerships and government support will be crucial.
    3. Price Wars
      • Intense competition in broadband pricing could put pressure on margins.
    4. Customer Retention
      • As options increase, retaining subscribers will require better service quality and value-added offerings.

    Strategic Moves by GTPL
    To achieve its targets, GTPL is likely to:

    • Expand FTTH (fiber-to-the-home) broadband footprint in semi-urban and rural areas.
    • Bundle OTT services with cable and broadband packages to appeal to younger customers.
    • Leverage regional content partnerships to retain strong cable TV demand.
    • Strengthen customer service with digital tools like apps for payments, complaints, and upgrades.

    Impact on Consumers
    For consumers, GTPL’s growth push could mean:

    • More affordable bundled plans for TV + broadband.
    • Wider availability of high-speed internet in smaller towns.
    • Continued access to regional cable TV content alongside OTT.

    This aligns well with India’s digital inclusion goals, ensuring both entertainment and connectivity reach deeper into rural and semi-urban areas.

    Conclusion
    GTPL Hathway’s ambitious plan to add 5 lakh cable TV and 1 lakh broadband subscribers annually highlights its dual focus on retaining traditional TV users while aggressively expanding in the broadband space.

    In an era of shifting viewer habits, GTPL’s strategy reflects a balanced approach: leveraging its cable dominance in smaller towns while tapping into the rising demand for high-speed internet.

    If executed well, this growth plan could strengthen GTPL’s position as a key player in India’s digital connectivity ecosystem, bridging the gap between traditional television and the future of broadband-powered entertainment.
    The NewsBit Bureau

  • Streaming surpasses TV: Roku leads again

    Streaming surpasses TV: Roku leads again

    Roku the #1 selling TV operating system (OS) in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico*, announced a major industry milestone: For the third consecutive month, U.S. viewers spent more time streaming content on Roku-powered devices than watching traditional broadcast television.

    According to Nielsen data**, streaming on Roku-powered devices accounted for 21.4% of all TV viewing time in the U.S. during July, surpassing broadcast TV’s 18.4% share. This continues a trend from May and June, when streaming on the Roku platform also outpaced broadcast. Roku’s share of TV viewing has grown steadily throughout 2025 — up 14% year-over-year — reflecting not just a shift in technology, but how audiences discover and engage with the entertainment that shapes today’s culture.

    While Nielsen’s monthly The Gauge report measures viewing for the top streaming services including The Roku Channel — Roku’s free, ad-supported service, which alone accounts for 2.8% of all TV viewing — it doesn’t represent the scale of streaming on Roku-powered devices. Today’s milestone reflects viewing across thousands of apps and live TV services on the entire Roku platform, offering a more complete picture of how Americans spend their time streaming.

    “When we first said that all TV would be streamed, it was a bold prediction. That day is closer than ever,” said Anthony Wood, Founder and CEO of Roku. “Now that the shift to streaming is well underway, with Roku at the forefront, we’re focused on the next chapter: making streaming easier, more personal, and more impactful for viewers, creators, and all our partners.”

    Beyond surpassing broadcast viewership, Roku remains the leading destination for streaming overall, by usage and TV unit sales. The Roku OS powers streaming on smart TVs and devices in over half of all internet-enabled households in the U.S., underscoring Roku’s central role in the streaming ecosystem and its ability to connect tens of millions of viewers to the content they love. It also is the #1 selling TV OS in the U.S., with TV unit sales greater than the next two TV operating systems combined*.

    “In broadcast’s heyday, TV guides directed us to ‘must-see’ television and the pop cultural moments we shared,” said Charlie Collier, President, Roku Media. “Today, the streaming platform is the guide, and the moments shaping culture are happening on Roku. We’re the ‘lead-in’ to TV for millions of viewers’ and partners’ journeys, connecting them to the content, live events, and experiences that define the streaming era.”

    *Source: Circana, LLC, Retail Tracking Service, U.S., CA, and MX, Smart TV by Software Service, Unit Sales, January – June 2025.

    **The data analyzed from Nielsen is representative of all apps on the Roku platform including apps that contain Live TV such as YouTube TV and Hulu Live. Business Wire

  • Wi-Fi HaLow market to grow 79% annually over 5 years

    Wi-Fi HaLow market to grow 79% annually over 5 years

    The Wi-Fi HaLow (802.11ah) market is expected to grow steadily over the next five years, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 79%, according to Omdia’s new report released month: “Wi-Fi HaLow (802.11ah) Market Assessment”.

    Bridging the IoT Connectivity Gap
    Wi-Fi HaLow addresses a market gap in wireless connectivity by offering middle ground between traditional Wi-Fi and low-power alternatives. For applications requiring more bandwidth than LoRaWAN but greater range and power efficiency than conventional Wi-Fi, HaLow presents an ideal solution.

    “If HaLow can establish a market beachhead in video, the infrastructure can then be leveraged for non-video IoT applications such as sensors, actuators, lighting, and more,” said Andrew Brown, Practice Lead for IoT at Omdia. “While HaLow may not have a marked advantage in these applications, the presence of existing infrastructure will make it more attractive than deploying another wireless technology.”

    Market outlook and growth sectors
    The industrial sector is expected to drive initial adoption, particularly for video-intensive applications like security, surveillance, and automation. As infrastructure expands, HaLow is projected to gain traction in smart home security cameras and doorbells starting in 2026, followed by smart city applications and consumer drones in 2027.

    “HaLow has a distinct advantage over other low power wireless technologies in the transmission of high-resolution video,” added Brown. “Among other common low power standards, only LTE-M is capable of video transmission, and even then, it is limited to mid-resolution due to its lower bandwidth.”

    Despite facing challenges from established technologies and a currently limited ecosystem, HaLow’s technical advantages and growing vendor support indicate potential for growth. Omdia