2007 could be the breakout year for HDTV in the consumer marketplace, according to a new report from IMS Research.
IMS Research says that pay-TV operators around the world, both cable and satellite, have launched HD services, with more to follow them.
However, uptake has been slow as, for some operators, the selection of channels with HD content is currently limited.
IMS adds that the near-term market for HD content on HD-DVD and Blu-Ray Disc will be limited as well, due to an expected small initial adoption rate for both formats’ players.
The research firm says that high hardware prices, consumer uncertainty about which format will win the blue laser format battle, and the sustained popularity of inexpensive standard-definition DVDs will constrain HD disc-related uptake in 2007.
Paul Erickson, analyst at IMS Research, said: “It is clear from the 2007 CES conference, especially when observing the many 1080i- and 1080p-compatible products being offered this year by vendors, that HD is going to be a strongly-pushed concept in 2007.
“In the latter half of this year, more robust HD content offerings from pay-TV operators, increased digital terrestrial TV adoption, accelerating uptake of HD-capable game consoles, and continued retail education at point of sale about HDTV in general, should all help drive quicker adoption of HD-related content and products.”
According to recent research from he BBC, the UK could lose between £4.1 billion and £15.6 billion in private and social value if high definition channels on the Freeview platform are not developed (see UK To Lose Billions If HD Channels On Freeview Not Developed).
Speaking at the recent Broadcast HD Here And Now conference, Brian Sullivan, Sky customer group managing director, said that HDTV can expect a bright future, with customers now more willing to replace their old TV sets (see Ofcom Plans New Public Service Channel To Rival BBC)
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