A significant change is underway in the landscape of digital terrestrial television (DTT) in France, with the creation of a new thematic block to group together continuous news channels. This initiative, aimed at facilitating access to information for viewers, was launched by the Arcom, the regulatory authority for audiovisual communication. Significant changes are expected in the numbering of channels, impacting established shows and programs.
Reorganization of news channels
The decision to create this information hub on DTT is motivated by the desire to respond to a growing demand for simplified access to channels dedicated to current events. By grouping the channels together, the Arcom hopes that viewers will be able to navigate more easily between different options for continuous news.
The channels that will make up this new block include major players such as BFMTV, which will occupy channel 13, CNews on channel 14, LCI and Franceinfo respectively on channels 15 and 16. This new reorganization represents a considerable undertaking, requiring a new numbering of existing channels, causing notable adjustments to the current order.
Impacts for existing channels
With the arrival of these new news channels, some channels, such as C8 and NRJ12, will cease their broadcasts on DTT. Starting June 6, 2025, C8 will be replaced by OFTV, the new channel from Ouest-France, and NRJ12 will give way to Réels TV. This change is expected to bring a new breath to the programming of DTT, with diversified content tailored to the current needs of viewers.
This evolution will undoubtedly provoke varied reactions from the channels involved. Some, like Nicolas de Tavernost, CEO of RMC BFMTV, have expressed concerns about the impact of this reorganization, calling the change a “hold-up” that could disrupt the already fragile balance of the offering on DTT.
The stakes of creating a thematic block
The establishment of a thematic block dedicated to news channels aims not only to better structure the available offer but also to make information more accessible. By gathering news channels close to each other, viewers can make more informed choices about which news sources to consult. This is particularly essential in a context where information is ubiquitous and sometimes difficult to sort through.
According to Roch-Olivier Maistre, president of the Arcom, this reform should help organize the media landscape in a more coherent way. He envisions transforming DTT into a true space of information where each channel would have its place, thus reinforcing the importance of continuous news for everyone.
The reaction of the media and viewers
This structural change could lead to a difficult start for some channels that will need to adapt to this new ecosystem. The reactions of hosts and industry professionals are mixed. The set of the show “Touche Pas à Mon Poste” (TPMP) has already discussed the issues associated with this new distribution. Viewer perception will also be crucial, as their acceptance of these changes will determine the success of the new information hub.
Beyond this reorganization, other initiatives, such as the exploration of digital innovations like the development of blockchain and artificial intelligence, also demonstrate the importance of adapting to technological evolutions in the media field. These advancements could potentially disrupt the sector even more in the future.
Consequences for the numbering of channels
As expected, the reorganization of news channels will cause upheaval in the numbering of channels on DTT. Starting June 6, 2025, channels LCP and Public Sénat, for example, will be repositioned on channel 8 to enhance their visibility. Such a redesign could provoke frustration among viewers accustomed to the old arrangement.
It is essential that the Arcom clearly communicates the changes so that the public is informed about the stakes and impacts of the changes. The challenge will be the authority’s ability to explain the reasons behind this new organization and gather feedback from users to identify potential future adjustments.
It remains to be seen how this transformation will affect media consumption in France and whether, with these modifications, DTT will be able to reinvent itself while meeting the expectations of today’s viewers.
