The media authority KommAustria assesses the increase in visibility and the creation of new thematic connections between these different fields as positive for the fulfillment of the public service mandate. Accordingly, “Topos” has now been approved by KommAustria.
According to a broadcast by the ORF, the thematic orientation and multimedia design of the module represent strong unique selling points, which means that no offers on the market are affected to a relevant extent by its implementation. The Federal Competition Authority (BWB) can still appeal against the decision.
“Important stage step”
The outgoing ORF general director Alexander Wrabetz hopes that it will go into operation soon. “, Topos ?? is a significant step in the further development of the ORF’s cultural offerings and for Austrian cultural life,” Wrabetz was quoted as saying in the broadcast. The designated ORF boss Roland Weißmann speaks of an “important stage step”: “We will be able to fulfill our public service mandate even better in the digital age.”
However, the complete ORF player can only be fully implemented through a digital amendment to the ORF law. Without this, according to the current status, in addition to “Topos”, the “Sound”, “Live” and “Newsroom” modules can also be implemented. “Sound” is to become Austria’s largest audio platform and also offer podcasts. “Live” promises the streaming of the respective programs as well as a comment and share function. “Newsroom” is planned as an information portal.
Source: Nachrichten
