BSkyB Still In Film Rights Negotiations For ONdigital

It has emerged today that ONdigital, the digital terrestrial service which launched this weekend (see Newsline), does not have the rights to show a full range of films on its terrestrial service.

BSkyB, the satellite broadcaster, committed to supply ONdigital with films which it shows on its satellite platform. As yet however, Sky has failed to secure terrestrial broadcasting rights from three studios: Universal Studios, Sony Pictures and MGM. As a result, ONdigital customers will not be able to see a number of films shown on BSkyB until Sky complete negotiations with the respective studios.

BSkyB launched its satellite service at the beginning of October (see Newsline), and is ONdigital’s major competitor in the digital battle; Cable & Wireless launches its cable digital service in spring of next year.

ONdigital told Newsline this morning that it had been expecting such developments, and that in the meantime Sky has committed to them that they will provide programming which is at least of the same quality.

Meanwhile, Sky assured Newsline that it is endeavouring to resolve the situation as soon as possible, and is taking the necessary steps.

ONdigital: 0171 8198000 BSkyB: 0171 705 3200