UK’s Internet video regulator is here to stay

The UK’s controversial new video on demand (VOD) regulator has been re-appointed to the task, after a review backed every aspect of its work. The Authority for Television On-Demand (ATVOD) has ruffled online publisher and broadcaster feathers since its introduction in 2010.

Complaints included:

• the fees ATVOD charges operators to be regulated by it
• classifying online publishers like newspapers sites as “TV-like” under its auspice.

But, after an inquiry launched in May in to ATVOD’s suitability, UK communications regulator Ofcom has concluded it is acting adequately on all counts. It has re-assigned ATVOD to continue overseeing content standards on UK “TV-like” VOD services. In fact, Ofcom is also giving ATVOD more freedom to act without having to notify it of certain aspects of its work.