Because of better compression, broadcasters will be able to offer several channels of programming in spectrum that previously was only able to transmit a single analogue channel. Therefore viewers are likely to be offered a wider range of channels subject only to the broadcasters finding a business model to make the channels financially viable.
From the public interest point of view, these additional channels provide the opportunity for the public broadcaster to extend what it offers. So for example, the Nigerian public broadcaster NTA has set up an education channel as part of its digital transition. Likewise, the Government in Kenya has given a channel to the Kenya Institute of Education for education purposes. This is not a cheap commitment but an education channel can provide learning experiences for a wide range of ages across the day and not just for trapped schoolchildren. Adults and parents and children both have a thirst for acquiring a better education.