CEA Enthusiastic About Participating In NTIA's Proceeding On The Digital Television Converter Box Program

July 25, 2006

The following statement was released today by Consumer Electronics Association (CEA(R)) President and CEO Gary Shapiro in response to the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information Administration's (NTIA) call for public comment on its proposed rules to establish a national coupon program for digital converter boxes: "This NPRM marks an important milestone in the nation's transition to digital television. Thus far the transition to DTV has been extremely successful. CEA forecast that U.S. consumers will purchase more than 18 million DTV sets and displays this year, marking a 50 percent increase over 2005 sales. 2006 will also be the year that high-definition television (HDTV) outsells analog television set units. According to sales projections, HDTV sets will outsell analog sets by 89 percent in 2006, reaching total unit sales of 15.9 million and contributing to over $23 billion in total DTV revenue. "A successful set-top box program represents the final piece of the transition to DTV puzzle. CEA and our members will continue our award-winning efforts to help educate consumers about this exciting new era in television. We are enthusiastic about participating in the comment process and pledge to work with NTIA and all other interested parties to ensure a smooth transition." For more information about the NTIA's notice of proposed rulemaking visit www.ntia.doc.gov. About CEA: The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the consumer technology industry through technology policy, events, research, promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA represents more than 2,100 corporate members involved in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and integration of audio, video, mobile electronics, wireless and landline communications, information technology, home networking, multimedia and accessory products, as well as related services that are sold through consumer channels. Combined, CEA's members account for more than $125 billion in annual sales. CEA's resources are available online at www.CE.org, the definitive source for information about the consumer electronics industry. CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES - Defining Tomorrow's Technology. All profits from CES are reinvested into industry services, including technical training and education, industry promotion, engineering standards development, market research and legislative advocacy.

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http://www.ntia.doc.gov
http://www.CE.org