Broadcasters Urge EU to Apply DMA to Big Tech Smart TVs

Broadcasters Push for DMA Gatekeeper Status

A coalition of Europe's largest broadcasters, including members of the Association of Commercial Television and Video on Demand Services in Europe (ACT), has formally urged the European Union to designate smart TV operating systems and virtual assistants from major tech companies as "gatekeepers" under the Digital Markets Act (DMA).

Growing Market Dominance

The request targets platforms like Google's Android TV, Amazon's Fire OS, and Samsung's Tizen OS. Citing market data from 2019 to 2024, the broadcasters highlighted significant market share growth for these systems, with Android TV rising to 23% and Amazon Fire OS reaching 12%. They argue this concentration gives a few operators immense power to control content distribution and access to audiences.

Impact on Digital Competition

Broadcasters express concern that without DMA oversight, these tech giants could favor their own services, restrict competitors, and limit consumer choice within their ecosystems. The call extends to virtual assistants like Amazon's Alexa and Apple's Siri, which they claim could become de facto media gatekeepers without being subject to DMA obligations, creating a regulatory gap.

Summary

The core objective is to ensure fairness and contestability in the digital media market by applying the EU's toughest tech rules to these platforms. The European Commission's response to this call will be a critical development for the broadcasting and technology industries, potentially reshaping content discovery and distribution on smart devices.

FAQ

Q: What is the Digital Markets Act (DMA)?
A: The DMA is an EU regulation aimed at controlling the market power of large technology companies, designated as "gatekeepers," to ensure a more competitive and fair digital sector.

Q: Which companies' platforms are targeted?
A: The call specifically names smart TV operating systems from Google (Android TV), Amazon (Fire OS), and Samsung (Tizen OS), as well as virtual assistants from companies like Apple and Amazon.

Source: Investing.com