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2 channels
The most striking feature of Andorran television is its singularity. Unlike its larger neighbors, France and Spain, which boast hundreds of channels, Andorra operates with just one domestic public broadcaster: Andorra Televisió (ATV), part of Ràdio i Televisió d'Andorra (RTVA). This isn't just a curiosity; it shapes the entire viewing culture. ATV has to be a generalist, a true public service, covering everything from local news and parliamentary proceedings to cultural programming, modest sports coverage, and even children's shows, all through a distinctly Andorran lens. Primetime viewing in Andorra often means a choice between what's offered on ATV and the vast array of Spanish and French channels readily available via satellite and IPTV. While Catalan is the official language and ATV broadcasts exclusively in it, many Andorrans are fluent in Spanish and French, and their media consumption reflects this linguistic dexterity. You'll find households flicking between a local Catalan-language bulletin on ATV and a major Spanish football match or a French drama. This creates a unique media environment where the domestic channel plays a crucial role in maintaining local identity and language, while simultaneously competing with the slicker, higher-budget productions from across the borders. News on ATV, naturally, has a strong local focus, covering the minutiae of a small, sovereign state – municipal councils, local events, and the economy. Its news-reading style is often direct and informative, less sensational than some of its commercial counterparts in bigger European markets. Sports coverage typically highlights local events like cycling races or skiing, alongside international events where Andorran athletes might compete. There aren't any domestic soap opera traditions or reality TV juggernauts here; ATV's programming is utilitarian and culturally affirming. In a world saturated with media, Andorra's single channel acts as a vital anchor for its community, ensuring a voice that's distinctly Pyrenean, rather than a mere echo of its powerful neighbors.