NextGen TV: Cheap tuners aim for 4K future

NextGen TV, promising advanced features like 4K UHD resolution, HDR color, and Dolby Atmos surround sound, is set to become more accessible with the upcoming release of affordable external tuners. These devices, expected to cost $60 or less by the end of 2026, aim to bridge the gap for consumers with older televisions that lack built-in NextGen tuners. Companies like ADTH, Skyworth, and ZapperBox are developing these compact tuners, which will retain high-quality audio and video capabilities.

However, to achieve the sub-$60 price point, these tuners will sacrifice features such as multiple tuners, on-device recording, and built-in internet connectivity. This strategy is reminiscent of the digital-TV transition in 2009, which saw the availability of inexpensive converter boxes. Unlike that transition, there will be no government subsidy program to help consumers acquire NextGen tuners, as the switch to ATSC 3.0 is not federally mandated.

Adoption of NextGen TV has been gradual, with varying support among major TV manufacturers. While some brands are integrating tuners into many of their sets, others have scaled back or removed support. Industry estimates project millions of NextGen TV sales through 2025, but this remains a fraction of the overall TV market. Broadcasters are advocating for a sunset date for the older ATSC 1.0 standard, but no definitive timeline has been set by the FCC, and there is no mandate for tuners to be included in new televisions.