‘Strong appeal’ for ATSC 3.0 Next-Gen features, says Pearl
New research from the Phoenix deployment of Next-Gen Television shows that the new service delivering live, over-the-air TV could increase broadcast TV viewing and drive sales of new television receivers.
That’s according to a study recently conducted by the people pushing the voluntary rollout of the ATSC 3.0 next-gen broadcast TV standard.
This research was the result of consumer lab testing by research consultancy Magid and was recently conducted in conjunction with the Phoenix Model Market project partners and the Pearl TV broadcast business group.
In lab testing, viewers said that the ATSC 3.0 capabilities could make them start watching broadcast programming (even if they don’t currently do so). Some broadcast viewers also said an ATSC 3.0-enabled device could make them want to watch broadcast TV even more than they currently watch.
“Consumers find most value in the combination of features. The combination of Enhanced Video – 4K video with High Dynamic Range – and Immersive 3D Audio have the broadest appeal,” noted Pearl TV Managing Director Anne Schelle.
Magid EVP Bill Hague added, “The consumer sentiment that we heard and felt most during the lab testing was excitement about ATSC 3.0 capabilities and a high overall level of interest in engaging with those capabilities and services through their local broadcasters.”
Other key insights from the consumer lab testing highlight the importance of enhanced audio and customization of the viewing experience.
91% of consumers say they are either “interested” or “very interested” in using a service like Next-Gen ATSC 3.0.
- As seen in previous testing, the concept of ATSC 3.0 is appealing to a wide range of consumers.
- Of all the consumer categories that were in the study – such as those who are already intensive broadcast TV watchers, sports enthusiasts, and Spanish-dominant viewers – most saw at least a couple of features that would enhance their live TV viewing experience.
Enhanced Audio features have the broadest appeal.
- In a laboratory environment, consumers could easily see and hear how ATSC 3.0 could give them access to live content that has Immersive 3D Audio, allow them to boost specific portions of audio using a Dialogue Enhancement feature, and allow them to customize audio tracks.
- These kinds of Enhanced Audio features are appealing to consumers because they are practical, and they make the live TV viewing experience more interactive and immersive.
80% of consumers say they are either “interested” or “very interested” in purchasing an ATSC 3.0 television or add-on device.
Four key themes emerge as unique benefits of ATSC 3.0:
- Over-the-Air Signal Access – Gives easy access to live content that consumers find valuable.
- Customization – Allows viewers to personalize their live TV experience, which helps them find what they want easier, interact with the content they love in new ways, and even discover new content in the process.
- Interactivity – Makes live TV more interactive; many “feel better” about watching TV if they are actively engaging with the content or if they feel there is an educational component to it.
- Inclusivity – Allows viewers to customize content in a way that makes it more enjoyable for family and friends.
