The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India TRAI ) plans to rollout set-top-box interoperability by end this year. “TRAI is scheduled to launch the process for subscribers to shift (or port) to new distribution platform operators (DPOs). We are likely to launch the new portability regime by December this year,” RS Sharma , TRAI chairman, told ETBE.Once launched the new process will help any subscriber to shift to a new service provider, keeping the old set-top box unchanged. The system is likely to be as swift as sending an SMS followed by the filling up of a customer application form.According to TRAI, under the new technology for interoperability, all operator specific requirements will be embedded in a smart card and generic details in the box. When a subscriber switches to another service provider, he would just require to change the card and not the set-top box.At present, if a subscriber looks to change the broadcaster he would require to buy new connection with the set-top box. A new connection costs around Rs 1,400-1,600, depending on the service provider. Due to this cost factor, consumers become reluctant to change their service provider even if there are issues.Since the rollout of new tariff order by the TRAI the regulator is flooded with complaints. TRAI has even put in place a grievance helpline for subscribers, which on a daily basis is answering over 2,500 customer queries.“We have put in about 25 people to answer such calls. There are a lot of problems arising from miscommunication, which we are trying to address and we may increase the number of resources from 25 to about 50 if needed,” Sharma told BE.“Keeping subscribers’ interest in mind, TRAI has put the set-top-box interoperability on a fast-track. Service providers (DPOs) should understand that only quality services along with competitive fee can sail them through or else the subscribers will easily port to a new service provider,” Sharma explained.According to TRAI, the STB interoperability will be a landmark reform in the broadcast sector. “The move gives more power to the subscribers to choose from the number of options available in the market. It will not only encourage healthy competition among the service providers but will also bring the best cheap offerings for the subscribers,” Sharma added.