In Finland, the HD transition is underway, which means that TV broadcasts will only be transmitted in high definition (HD) after a phased transition period. Standard definition (SD) broadcasts will end first on Yle’s tv channels in the spring of 2025, and during the summer, also on other Finnish TV channels. This transition affects both terrestrial and cable TV reception. Digita is investing significantly in the HD transition of the terrestrial TV network by upgrading the terrestrial TV transmitters to DVB-T2 compatible nationwide.

The HD transition increases the number of high-definition channels in the terrestrial TV network. As the number of smart TV devices grows, so does the number of devices connected to the internet. Internet-connected devices enable the development of the domestic television advertising market and enhance TV viewing experience with hybrid TV supplementary services. During this transition, TV viewers must ensure that their receivers are up to date and capable of receiving HD broadcasts.

In addition to the benefits offered to TV viewers, the HD transition strengthens domestic linear television and the position of Finnish media companies in international competition. Given the current global situation, there is a growing need for people to receive up-to-date and reliable information from trusted media sources. TV is a reliable way to get information and its societal role and operation must be ensured in the future as well. Finns watch linear television for two and a half hours a day.

According to studies, terrestrial TV is now and will be in the future the most energy-efficient way to distribute linear TV content. From the perspective of energy-efficient data transmission, it is most profitable to distribute content via broadcast networks.

The HD transition is an important step in developing Finland’s television operations and ensures that citizens can benefit from modern media and information society services. Our core mission at Digita is to ensure that every Finn has access to information every day of the year and around the clock throughout Finland, even in exceptional circumstances.

Tom Jungell

Senior Vice President, Broadcast