The OJ has published on 4th april the Commission Decision of 17 March 2008 amending Decision 2007/176/EC as regards the List of standards and/or specifications for electronic communications networks, services and associated facilities and services in order to include the Digital Video Broadcasting (Handheld) DVB-H as an standard.

The harmonised provision of terrestrial broadcast television on mobile platforms is essential to achieve economies of scale across the EU. In its Communication on Strengthening the Internal Market for Mobile TV, the Commission identified the standard Digital Video Broadcasting Handheld (DVB-H) as the most suitable standard for the future development of terrestrial mobile TV in Europe and signalled its intention to add this standard to the list of standards.

Why the EC publish the standards lists
In accordance with Article 17(1) of the Framework Directive (2002/21/EC) the Commission draws up and publishes in the Official Journal of the European Communities a list of standards and/or specifications which serve as a basis for encouraging the harmonised provision of electronic communications networks, electronic communications services and associated facilities and services, to ensure interoperability of services and to improve freedom of choice for users.

More Information about standards can be addressed at the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) produces globally-applicable standards for Information and Communications Technologies (ICT), including fixed, mobile, radio, converged, broadcast and internet technologies.

650 Route des Lucioles
F-06921 Sophia Antipolis Cedex
France