UK still in the dark about digital switchover

The digital switchover is due to be completed in 2012

Nearly half of UK adults do not understand the implications of the digital switchover nor when it is happening in their area, according to a recent survey by comparison site MoneySupermarket.com.

The government and Ofcom have spent millions on marketing and setting up the switch to digital TV transmissions, but the survey of 2,041 British adults revealed that 65 per cent did not know when the switchover will happen in their area, and 45 per cent did not realise that the analogue broadcast will be turned off.

"The switchover is well under way, but it is worrying how many people still do not understand what it actually means for them," said James Parker, manager of broadband and mobiles at MoneySupermarket.com.

"Despite increasing sales of Freeview boxes and satellite subscription services, there are millions of adults who simply do not feel prepared for the switchover."

The study also revealed that 22 per cent of respondents still have a TV set that is not digital, and 18 per cent have not yet made any provision for the switchover.

Many of those surveyed also complained that they had received little or no information from the government, despite the setting up of Digital UK, a not-for-profit company aimed at helping British residents through the transition.

The switchover began last year and is due to be completed in 2012. It will free up vital parts of the radio spectrum to allow for new services and other wireless technologies.