Government backs down on plans to charge smartphone TV license fees

The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies says it plans to push for TV licensing changes for South Africa, but specifically excludes smartphones from its list of devices for which it could charge license fees.
In a presentation to parliament this week, the department said the proposed changes are outlined in a draft White Paper on audiovisuals, which is currently open for public comment until February 15.
“The issues raised in the draft white paper will broaden the definitions of television access and strengthen enforcement issues,” he said.
Currently, only a TV license is required when purchasing a TV that is capable of receiving a broadcast signal. A TV license is valid for twelve months and is renewed at the end of …