The EU has set out plans for new rules that would bring further unity to the Digital Single Market, and benefit citizens who are traveling across the Union. Under the proposal, users would be able to use their digital subscriptions without geo-blocking in any of the EU 28 member states.
As things currently stand, a Netflix, or Amazon Video subscriber for example, can only use his or her subscription in the registering country. At best, he or she can use it outside of the country for only a limited time before geo-blocking takes effect. But the new EU rules, which still need to be agreed to by the Council and voted on by the Parliament, would ditch all such restrictions. The EU’s VP on all things digital, Andrus Ansip explained:
Today's agreement will bring concrete benefits to Europeans. People who have subscribed to their favourite series, music and sports events at home will be able to enjoy them when they travel in Europe. This is a new important step in breaking down barriers in the Digital Single Market
The legislation is expected to come into effect at the start of 2018, and yes, it will also cover the UK and traveling Brits as long as they’re still part of the EU. The move is also part of a longer campaign to modernize the Union’s legislation with regards to copyright and communication across the bloc.
Source: European Commission | EU flags image via Shutterstock
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