Digital Free-to-Air Television
to Become a Reality in Trinidad and Tobago by 2026
By the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago
LINKAGE Q1 (2025) - ACCELERATE ACTION
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y the start of 2026, Trinidad and Tobago is expected to experience a significant transformation in the broadcast landscape, with the transition to digital terrestrial television (DTT) becoming a reality for free-to-air (FTA) viewers across the nation.
This initiative, led by the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT), aims to enhance access to high-quality, subscription-free television services for approximately 100,000 households still relying solely on traditional FTA television broadcasting.
Advancing Broadcast Technology
The transition to DTT, using the ATSC 3.0 standard, the most advanced digital broadcast system currently available globally, will revolutionise the television experience. Viewers can expect significantly improved audio and visual quality, broader programming options, and additional interactive features.
Beyond consumer benefits, broadcasters such as TTT, CCN TV6, CNC3, and the Parliament Channel will gain operational efficiencies, reduced transmission costs, and broader coverage. This transition is a vital step in ensuring the long-term viability and sustainability of the local FTA broadcasting sector.
Industry Consultation and Regional Alignment
The Authority has actively engaged both the public and key industry stakeholders in a series of consultations to shape the national DTT framework. The third and final round of public consultation concluded on 15th December 2023 with the Framework for Free-to-Air Digital Terrestrial Television Broadcasting officially approved and published in January 2024.
This approach sees Trinidad and Tobago moving in alignment with several Caribbean islands, including the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, Antigua and Suriname. These countries have already transitioned to digital TV, with Jamaica, the most recent Caribbean country, implementing the ATSC 3.0 as its digital terrestrial television broadcasting standard.
The United States of America, the largest television and set-top box equipment market nearest to us, has already implemented ATSC 3.0, which will enable the availability of equipment in Trinidad and Tobago.
Implementation Timeline
The switchover to digital broadcasting will be implemented in a phased approach, with work already in train, since the start of 2024. During this transition, analogue and digital signals will be simulcast, enabling a seamless changeover for viewers.
Full digital implementation is anticipated by the end of 2027 and analogue transmissions will be permanently discontinued. Consumers are encouraged to invest in ATSC 3.0-ready televisions or utilise affordable set-top boxes that will be available in local retail stores once digital broadcasting begins.
Cost Considerations for Consumers
For viewers, the shift to digital broadcasting entails minimal expense. Those who already own ATSC 3.0-ready televisions will not incur additional costs. Consumers with non-compatible television sets can continue receiving free to air television broadcasts by purchasing a one-time, low-cost set-top box. The Authority is working closely with suppliers to ensure these devices are accessible and affordable.
Persons with Cable TV services (subscription-based television broadcasting services) will continue to view local television channels without needing to replace their television or purchase an ATSC 3.0 set-top box, unless they switch to viewing free-to-air television.
Looking Ahead
The digital transition represents a pivotal step in modernising Trinidad and Tobago’s FTA television sector. It promises an enriched viewing experience for the public and positions the country to remain competitive and aligned with international broadcasting standards.
For additional information on the digital switchover, stakeholders are invited to visit the Authority’s website: https://tatt.org.tt/stakeholder/broadcasting/digital-terrestrial-television-dtt