So… tomorrow is d-day for TV. Despite a government 4 month extension of the original DTV switch date, it’s expected millions of viewers will still be left in the dark. The switch from analog to digital TV signals was supposed to be February 17th, but after many complaints of unpreparedness for the event, it was postponed to June 12.
According to Nielsen numbers, close to 3 million households are still not ready for the digital switch. In a statement, the FCC acknowledges there will be disruptions, but that the agency will do everything possible to help make a smooth transition. So far, the FCC and NTIA have distributed 59 million $40 coupons for TV converter boxes. However, only about 31 million coupons were redeemed. Those coupons will continue to be available for consumers who apply until July 31st.