Channel 4 announces HD service
19 Sep 2007 17:06
Channel 4 is set to become the first terrestrial broadcaster in the UK to provide a high-definition simulcast of its main channel.The HD channel will be launched on Sky HD in December and will be free of charge. It will broadcast on Sky channel 140, next to E4, E4+1, More4, More4+1 and the recently launched Channel 4+1. It will also be launched on Virgin Media's V+ service.
Ron Henwood, Channel 4's new media director, said: "Channel 4's aim is to offer our viewers maximum flexibility in accessing our high quality programmes and content at a time and in the format of their choosing.
"HD is a fast growing consumer technology and we believe our viewers will welcome the opportunity to watch their favourite Channel 4 shows in high definition."
He also noted that increased investment in HD at this relatively early stage could help encourage producers of Channel 4 programmes to make them in HD, increasing their sales appeal in the international market.
ITV recently announced that it will be launching an HD simulcast of its main channel at the beginning of 2008, while BBC's plans to move into HD were approved by media regulator OfCom this week, but must now be approved by the BBC Trust.
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