Digital TV generally refers to broadcasting TV services in digital format. Rather than being broadcast as continuous analogue signals, the signals are sent as discrete bits of information. By using digital technology, digital TV improves picture quality and eliminates reception problems such as ghosting or snowing. Digital TV may be transmitted via radiocommunications (i.e., terrestrial), satellite, cable or broadband network.

Digital TV is a far more efficient and flexible transmission system than the current analogue system. It allows broadcasters to offer viewers a range of new and different services. The possible benefits include:

• "ghost free" reception
• widescreen pictures
• standard definition TV (SDTV) and high definition TV (HDTV) programmes
• high-quality audio and surround sound
• multi-channel programming
• closed captioning of programmes for the hearing impaired
• electronic programme guide (EPG) with "now & next" programme information for some channels
• on-screen programme guide channel with today's programme information
• multi-angle views and enhancements during selected programmes
• interactive TV services such as home shopping, computer games, etc.
• datacasting services such as financial data, weather updates and traffic news, etc.