Advanced Television

at800 anti-interference body debuts

March 15, 2013

at800at800, the organisation tasked with ensuring UK viewers continue to receive Freeview when 4G mobile services at 800MHz are launched later this year, has gone into operation. Its first pilot begins on March 18th in the West Midlands; and its website and UK-based contact centre are now live.

The not-for-profit organisation – funded by the UK mobile operators with licences to provide 4G mobile services at 800MHz (EE, Telefónica O2 UK, Three and Vodafone) – is the only one in Europe planning steps to address this issue on behalf of viewers.

Other elements of at800’s programme already underway include the purchase, testing and branding of filters; the creation of targeted communications for those likely to be affected; and the development of an extensive programme to support vulnerable groups.

Simon Beresford-Wylie, at800 chief executive, said: “I’m delighted that just two weeks after the licence awards, we are already in a strong position and about to begin our first pilot.  This is an important phase and will give us a clearer picture of how many people are likely to be affected.  We’ll do our best to ensure minimum disruption to viewers in the area as we gather the information we need.”

Categories: Articles, Broadband, Mobile, Regulation, Standards