STB interoperability remains a contentious issue in India's TV distribution market. Experts argue that existing STBs deployed by DPOs are non-interoperable, complicating efforts for technical compatibility across service providers. Despite repeated recommendations by Trai since 2010, achieving interoperability faces hurdles due to divergent technical standards and proprietary ownership by DPOs. Critics suggest that amidst the rise of internet-based content delivery options, pushing for STB interoperability seems outdated. However, proponents like Rajiv Khattar advocate that with DPO cooperation, implementing interoperability could still be feasible.
