Celebrating World TV Day: Reflecting on the Evolution of Television

November 21 marks World TV Day, an opportunity to reflect on the monumental impact that television has had over nearly a century since its invention. From its early days in 1928 to its current status as the most popular source of entertainment and information, television has truly transformed the way people connect with the world.

Charity Njanji, corporate affairs and public relations manager for MultiChoice Zimbabwe, emphasized the importance of this day, noting that despite the growth of digital platforms, television remains an essential medium. “Even in the digital age, television remains the single largest source of information, education, and entertainment,” she said.

The origins of television date back to 1928, but it wasn’t until 1938 that the technology began reaching homes, allowing families to gather around the first broadcasts of television shows. This marked the beginning of a revolution in entertainment, shifting away from traditional live theater and cinema to the convenience of watching shows at home. In the decades that followed, television continued to evolve, from black-and-white broadcasts to the introduction of color and the expansion of broadcast time.

In 1976, satellite television changed the game by enabling global broadcasts. This technology paved the way for the launch of satellite TV services in the 1990s, allowing viewers to access a wide range of international events and channels. “It took 50 years for people to go from watching a single TV station in black and white to having access to hundreds of channels with 24/7 programming,” Njanji pointed out.

The 21st century saw a dramatic shift with the advent of mobile TV. In 2003, the U.S. launched its first mobile TV service, which streamed live video and audio feeds via the internet. This paved the way for today’s popular streaming platforms. Despite the rise of mobile devices and streaming services, traditional TV sets remain the dominant device for video consumption. According to the DASH 2023 TV Universe Study, 84% of video entertainment in the U.S. is still viewed on TV sets, with only 6% of households using mobile devices exclusively for TV viewing.

This enduring popularity of TV has been further bolstered by the integration of digital streaming. Satellite TV providers, once the pioneers of modern television, have embraced streaming technology, giving viewers even more options for accessing content. In Sub-Saharan Africa, for example, pay-TV remains the most popular form of entertainment. Digital TV Research estimates that 12 million new pay-TV subscribers will come online between 2023 and 2029 in Africa, underscoring the continued relevance of satellite TV in the region.

MultiChoice, a leader in satellite TV across Africa, has been at the forefront of this evolution, introducing technological innovations such as the DStv decoder, PVR, high-definition decoders, and streaming services like Showmax and DStv Stream. “MultiChoice has focused not only on quality TV content but also on advancing technology to ensure that Africa stays ahead in the evolving television landscape,” said Njanji.

While the television medium has adapted to digital platforms and new viewing habits, it remains a central part of people’s lives. Whether through news, sports, or entertainment, television continues to bring people together, driving conversations and connecting individuals across the globe. The UN has highlighted that the interaction between traditional and emerging broadcast forms presents a unique opportunity to address critical global issues.

Despite the rapid evolution of media technology, television has proven its resilience and continued relevance in the digital age. As the world celebrates World TV Day, it’s a reminder of how this humble invention has shaped society and will likely continue to play an essential role in our lives for generations to come.