With the upcoming changes to DTT, the Regulatory Authority for Audiovisual and Digital Communication, known as Arcom, is considering the creation of a new thematic block dedicated to young people. This project is accompanied by a review of the news channels that would settle on neighboring channels. This disruption in the television schedule could thus transform the way content is distributed to teenagers and young adults.
A necessary reorganization
DTT, which stands for Digital Terrestrial Television, will undergo significant changes starting next year. Channels C8 and NRJ 12 will be replaced by new options such as Ouest France TV and Réels TV. This reshuffle prompts a global reflection on the numbering and organization of channels, particularly for young viewers. Arcom’s mission is to ensure that channels meet the diverse needs of the audience, which this initiative illustrates well.
Information and youth: two distinct blocks
Arcom plans to establish two distinct thematic blocks on DTT. On one hand, an information block that could integrate channels like LCI and France Info on adjacent channels. On the other hand, this project includes the idea of a youth block, offering young people a programming tailored to their interests and concerns. This panel of channels could include already established players such as France 4 and Gulli, whose popularity with young audiences is indisputable.
Changes in numbering expected
The reorganization of channel numbering could also introduce significant changes. For example, Gulli could occupy channel 13, while France 4 would retain its current channel, 14. This repositioning could create a more coherent and readable television environment for young viewers, potentially making access to content more intuitive.
Uncertain beginnings for the new channels
The new channels that will succeed C8 and NRJ 12, namely Ouest France TV and Réels TV, will mark a turning point in the French audiovisual landscape. The launch of these channels is scheduled for September 1, 2025, but the success of these initiatives will greatly depend on how well they can capture the attention of young viewers. Réels TV, focused on documentaries, promises to have a unique and positive approach that could attract an audience eager for new discoveries.
Reactions to these changes
The project to create a youth block has sparked varied reactions within the sector. Some stakeholders in the audiovisual industry are enthusiastic about expanding the offering for young people, while others, particularly in the information sector, are concerned about the implications of such a reorganization on their visibility and audience. The need to maintain a balance between information and entertainment is more relevant than ever, especially as young people become increasingly demanding and critical of the content presented to them.
