The Dominican Republic has officially launched its transition to Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT), marking a significant leap forward in the nation’s broadcasting landscape. The initiative, spearheaded by the Dominican Institute of Telecommunications (Indotel), aims to enhance the viewing experience for millions of households.
President Luis Abinader and Indotel board president Guido Gómez Mazara presided over a ceremony on Wednesday, 20 November 2024 that symbolically marked the end of analog broadcasting and the beginning of the digital era. The first phase of the rollout will cover the eastern region, Greater Santo Domingo, and several municipalities in San Cristóbal province.
“This project represents a fundamental step in modernizing our media,” said Gómez Mazara. “By improving access to information, entertainment, and culture, and enhancing audio and video quality, we’re bringing our citizens into the future of television.”
A key component of the DTT transition is the distribution of nearly one million converter boxes to low-income households that rely on antennas. These devices will enable households to receive the new digital signal and enjoy clearer picture quality. Indotel has already distributed approximately 500,000 boxes in the areas covered by the initial phase.
“We are determined to ensure that everyone can benefit from this technological advancement,” added Gómez Mazara. “By providing converter boxes to vulnerable populations, we are bridging the digital divide and guaranteeing equal access to high-quality television.”
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is supporting the project with a US$22 million loan. The full rollout of the DTT network is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
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Indotel
Indotel
El Dia
21 November 2024