The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued a consultation paper (pdf) seeking comments for developing a unified Quality of Service (QoS) framework for all TV platforms including DTH, Cable TV, HITS and IPTV. The consultation primarily seeks to bring better efficiency in services offered by players though these platforms, and better transparency for consumers. According to the TRAI, QoS is defined as “totality of characteristics of a telecommunications service that bear on its ability to satisfy stated and implied needs of the user of the service.” It adds that the availability of multiple choice of services offered through a multitude of players have influenced consumer’s consumption patterns. Proposed QoS frameworks In addition, services are being offered through more than one medium i.e. IPTV, DTH, Cable TV, and HITS. Each medium has evolved through technological advancements, “resulting in a competitive multiplayer business environment.” Therefore, the TRAI proposes three kinds of unified regulatory framework for addressing QoS parameters in all mediums. These include: Self-regulated QoS framework: Distribution Platform Operators (DPOs) including IPTV, DTH, Cable TV and HITS could declare their own QoS parameters to customers and report their performance on a voluntary basis. Such an approach requires minimal intervention from TRAI. However, the regulator has opined that since there are multiple operators competing to offer the same service, “the effectiveness of such a QoS framework is debatable” and could turn out to be poor if there is no intervention. Regulation by an Industry led body: The regulator outlines a QoS…
