Brazil TV 3.0 transition and funding debate

The transition to TV 3.0 technology in Brazil has faced scrutiny regarding the allocation of telecommunications funds. The Coalizão Direitos na Rede (CDR) challenged the 2027 budget proposal for the Fundo de Universalização dos Serviços de Telecomunicações (Fust), arguing that approximately R$ 2.57 billion—two-thirds of the projected budget—was being directed toward the ‘Brasil Mais TV 3.0’ program. The CDR contended that these funds should instead prioritize expanding broadband access to unconnected and low-income areas, noting that less than 10% of the budget was earmarked for regions lacking commercial interest.

In a separate development, the Monitoring Group for the Implementation of Solutions to Interference Problems (GAISPI), coordinated by Anatel, has moved forward with utilizing surplus funds from the 5G auction. GAISPI approved R$ 1.66 billion in investment proposals from the 3.5 GHz Band Administrator (EAF).

Of these funds, approximately R$ 1.28 billion is designated for the distribution of TV 3.0 converters to roughly 910,000 low-income families in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and the Distrito Federal, prioritizing Bolsa Família and CadÚnico beneficiaries. The remaining R$ 375 million is earmarked for the construction of a high-capacity government data center to be operated by Telebras. This facility will include a dedicated module for artificial intelligence applications, featuring specialized hardware such as 48 GPUs. These proposals are currently awaiting final approval from Anatel’s Board of Directors.