Abstract
With substantial differences between different countries and individual
operators, the European cable industry is far from homogeneous. Whereas some
are poised to become key players in the digital home of the future, others are
not likely to survive to see it turn into reality. We anticipate further
consolidation in the sector, with an eventual outcome of a single cable player
in most markets.
The cable industry regards itself as well positioned to own and/or co-own the
digital home, primarily due to its expertise in delivering entertainment to
the home and the technological superiority of its network. However, it cannot
afford to be complacent, and it will need to capitalise on the narrow window
of opportunity during which emerging players with substantially larger
resources at their disposal, such as incumbent telcos, are still in learning
mode. New technologies, such as WiMAX and HSDPA, will enable an increasing
number of new players to join the fray. In addition, the consumer electronics
is increasingly bringing out its own solutions to market, enabling consumers
to relegate the operator to the role of a mere bit-pipe provider.
The key focus of this report is the European cable industry, addressing the
following:
- key elements of cable operators' overall strategy
- strategy for individual services; for example, TV, broadband and voice
- moves towards the digital home.
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