DVD Recorders Expected To Boost Freeview Numbers

A new report from Amercian-based research firm IMS Research has predicted an influx of Freeview-ready DVD recorders to the UK, potentially boosting the digital terrestrial television service with an extra 1.8 million viewers by 2009.

According to the research, around 3.6 million recorders will hit British shores before the end of the decade, with about half able to receive Freeview’s digital television channels. It is also expected that around 70% of such equipment will contain a built-in hard drive for PVR functionality.

Reports suggest that the first of these devices will arrive in Britain in time for the pre-Christmas rush and should be compatible with the newly created electronic programme guide for Freeview, which offers viewers a mix of more than 30 branded television and radio channels.

On a global scale, IMS predicts a massive growth in the market for DVD recorders, increasing from 4.5 million units in 2003, to around 61 million units by 2009. The firm also expects PVR technology and digital tuners to be standard issue for the majority of recorders by the end of the decade.

Last month figures from the BBC showed that Freeview had extended its reach to an estimated 4 million homes across the UK. The continuing popularity of the service, which launched less than two years ago, means that BBC’s digital television channels, radio networks and interactive services are now available in over 13 million UK households (see Freeview Now In An Estimated 4 Million UK Homes).

IMS Research: www.imsresearch.com

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