As per the announcement made on March 14, a Public consultation will be launched this year by the European Commission on the regulation of HbbTV (Hybrid Broadband Broadcast TV).

The market analysts believe that behind the push of this decision, European Union (EU) is responsible. This belief came into being with the fact that an event had been organized in EU Parliament in the beginning of March which included 100 delegates such as broadcasters and electronics manufacturers. It was organized to discuss the regulations that have to be put in HbbTV initiative.

A regulatory approach is still far from clear as it is indicated by the first draft report and questions from the floor. The regulatory committee needs to consider various points including the advertising items such as alcohol, adult-only content, the promotion of diverse political views, piracy, data protection issues and uneven member state regulations and enforcement.

The US broadcasters are already voicing the concerns that the viewers are watching illegal content and download through internet as well as HbbTV. Another issue is of reducing the advertising screen for the broadcast TV advertisers who are used to and expect a full-screen attention.