Digital multimedia broadcasting meaning

Digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB) refers, in practice, to the terrestrial delivery of audio, television and data services over digital radio spectrum to mobile or portable devices. It is a descriptive technical term (not defined in UK or Irish legislation) and is commonly associated with the T-DMB and S-DMB standards, originally developed and primarily deployed in South Korea; deployment in the UK and Ireland has been limited. Where used in the UK, DMB would be regulated under the general frameworks for wireless telegraphy and broadcasting rather than as a distinct service. Operators would typically require: (1) a Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006 licence from Ofcom for spectrum access (often in VHF Band III or L-Band); and (2) where linear audiovisual services are provided, the relevant broadcasting and/or multiplex licence under the Communications Act 2003, together with compliance with the Ofcom Broadcasting Code and the Audiovisual Media Services regime. In Ireland, equivalent regulation applies: spectrum licensing by ComReg under the Wireless Telegraphy Acts, and content/multiplex authorisation and AVMS compliance overseen by Coimisiún na Meán. Usage and regulatory treatment are broadly consistent across England & Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland.