C4 to go HD
Wednesday, October 3rd, 2007Mary Whitehouse’s favourite channel hooks up with Sky
Channel 4 has announced that it plans to transmit some of its programmes in high definition (HD) through Sky from December 2007.
To begin with, the new channel, which presumably will be called something like 4-HD, will just broadcast a selection of programmes rather than the full C4 schedule, with a view to expanding to encompass all the listings in the future. Hit shows such as Ugly Betty are already being broadcast in HD in the US.
“The launch of Channel 4 HD represents an early cost-efficient entry into a valuable emerging market, and an important enhancement to the service offered to the rapidly increasing number of HD viewers,” said Rod Henwood, director of new business at Channel 4.
However, only programmes which are recorded using HD equipment will be broadcast in HD. Channel 4 believes that this will stimulate producers who want to use HD recording techniques:
“We believe that increased investment in HD at this stage could help boost HD production for the benefit of Channel 4 producers who will find their programmes more saleable in the international market.”
Imagine being able to look at Jade Goody’s face in full high definition glory. Huzzah! Viva La Revolucion Digitale!
The channel will debut on Sky, and will be available for no extra subscription to those who have a Sky HD receiver, and will eventually become available on Virgin Media and Freeview.
