Five could launch DTT HD services by 2010
Five could launch HD services on digital terrestrial television (DTT) from 2010 after Ofcom provisionally reserved capacity for the broadcaster.
The decision to award the HD licence is subject to Five resolving certain key criteria related to its application by 31 December 2009, said Ofcom.
Five said in its application that it will initially simulcast its main public services channel programmes at peak time on HD.
It added that in the future it would share its HD channel with another broadcaster during daytime hours and supply other services, such as video-on-demand in HD overnight.
The regulator announced in April 2008 that it would instigate the reorganisation of the DTT platform to allow new HD services (see Ofcom DTT Technology Upgrade To Give Viewers Greater Channel Choice).
The initial first three HD services will begin with the Granada region later this year. The rest of the UK will follow as each region switches to digital, with nationwide coverage by 2012.
Philip Graf, chairman of Ofcom’s content board said: “This gives channel Five the opportunity to join the other public service broadcasters in providing new services for viewers.
“It means more choice for TV viewers who will be able to watch in high definition popular programming, free to air through their television aerials.”