Open Access beyond Cable: The Case for Interactive TV

Title: Open Access beyond Cable: The Case for Interactive TV

Research Question: How can regulatory policies ensure open access and innovation in the emerging market of interactive TV?

Methodology: The authors conducted a comparative analysis of the interactive TV market in the United States and Western Europe. They examined regulatory policies, market structures, and industry developments in these regions to draw conclusions about the factors that influence open access and innovation in interactive TV.

Results: The authors found that the nascent interactive TV market is at a critical juncture. The dominance of a few platform operators could lead to the creation of "walled gardens" with limited content and applications. This could stifle innovation and limit user access to a wide range of information and services.

Implications: The authors argue that regulatory policies must be put in place to ensure non-discriminatory access to network components and standardization for terminal equipment. These policies will help prevent dominant platform operators from leveraging their control over delivery infrastructure into market power over interactive TV services. By promoting open access and innovation, regulatory policies can ensure that the exciting opportunities for broad-based innovation and extended access to multiple information, entertainment, and educational services are not foregone.

Significance: This research is significant because it highlights the importance of regulatory policies in shaping the future of the interactive TV market. By analyzing the experiences of the United States and Western Europe, the authors provide valuable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders around the world. Their findings emphasize the need for open access policies to foster competition, innovation, and user choice in the rapidly evolving landscape of interactive TV.

Link to Article: https://arxiv.org/abs/0109041v1 Authors: arXiv ID: 0109041v1