Starting October, NHK will roll out NHK ONE, a new internet platform offering live streaming, on-demand replays, and news articles. The service comes under Japan’s revised Broadcasting Act, which requires public broadcasters to treat internet distribution on the same footing as television.
For viewers, that means access to NHK programming on phones, tablets, and computers. But it also raises the question: Will simply owning a smartphone trigger fees?
According to NHK, the answer is no. Users are not charged merely for possessing a device. However, those who sign up for NHK ONE must have an NHK reception contract. Households that already pay TV license fees will not face additional charges. For those without a contract—such as households with no television but who want to use the app—the cost will be ¥1,100 a month (¥965 in Okinawa).
To start, users must register an NHK ONE account, link it to their reception contract, and then access content. Importantly, the service can also be canceled. NHK makes clear that even if a household has only a smartphone, canceling NHK ONE does not require giving up the device.
In short: NHK’s new platform extends its reach to the internet age. For existing subscribers, it’s an added feature at no extra cost. For new users, it means paying a monthly fee—though only if they actively sign up. Owning a phone or laptop alone will not automatically bring the bill.
by MagazineKey4532