BBC HD have announced the launch of 5 new HD channels in time for Christmas. The new channels will first become available to the public on 10 December. These new channels are simulcasts of existing BBC channels rather than dedicated HD broadcasts such as the now discontinued ‘BBC HD’ channel – this means that the 5 new channels; CBBC HD, CBeebies HD, BBC Three HD, BBC Four HD, and BBC News HD will broadcast simultaneously BBC HDwith standard definition broadcasts.

BBC Director-General, Tony Hall, said: “I am delighted that we’re able to launch our new HD channels in time for Christmas, when families gather together to enjoy some of the best TV from the BBC. This year, people will be able to watch even more of our programmes in brilliant quality.”

Unfortunately not everyone will be able to access the new BBC HD channels immediately, however over 50% will have access tomorrow, the BBC estimates that the availability will be around 70% by Wimbledon 2014 and 90% by 2019. The new channels should be accessible on Sky HD, Virgin Media, YouView, Freeview HD, and Freesat HD services – some providers may have different activation times.

The new BBC Three HD and CBBC HD channels will make use of existing HD infrastructure whereas CBeebies HD, BBC Four HD, BBC News HD will use new dedicated HD Capacity.

BBC Director of Distribution, Alix Pryde, said: “In July 2013, we confirmed our intention to launch our five new HD channels by early 2014. But we couldn’t resist the possibility of being able to deliver these early, in time to give them to you for Christmas.”


Get CONSETT MAGAZINE straight to your inbox.

* indicates required

Previous articleXbox One Scam on eBay
Next articleCrookhall Park Opened by Pat Glass
Ben Mullen
Ben Mullen is a writer, blogger, youtube guru, and media producer with Firefly New Media UK. Consett Magazine are very proud to have Ben working with Consett's favourite publication.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here