Brussels, 11/12/2002 (Agence Europe) - As we announced, on 9 December the European Commission launched a public consultation following the publication of a preliminary report on obstacles still preventing generalised access to new services and applications relating to the information society, through open platforms in the field of digital television and third generation mobile communications (3G). This consultation will continue until 15 February. A public hearing is scheduled for 4 February.
The approach used to provide services over interconnected networks can require the use of proprietary technology at the interfaces between services and applications, which can have repercussions on the interoperability of services, platforms and applications and therefore on consumer choice. The Commission's preliminary report identifies the voluntary moves on the part of industry to achieve interoperability. It notes that this is an area evolving rapidly and that the Commission's services will follow developments closely. Th report also identifies that creation of openness and interoperability in different delivery platforms such as 3G and digital TV cannot alone ensure widespread access over these two platforms. Other factors, related to consumer trust and confidence, the availability of desirable services and content, and a clear regulatory environment in which companies operate, must also be present in order for an Information Society for all to happen. Finally, the report finds that the effective application of existing policies related to electronic communications and the eEUROPE 2005 Action Plan will be critical to the successful achievement of an Information Society for all, and suggests actions for Member States and the Commission.
The final report should be adopted in the form of an official notice, once the public consultation is over (http: //http://www.eu.int/information_society/topics/telecoms/regulatory/publiconsult/index_en.htm )