In the UK next year the BBC will trial broadcasts of high definition television. The plan is to simulcast highlights of BBC ONE's peaktime schedule in high definition on satellite and cable. Currently, many major productions from the BBC are shot in high definition, and the company plans to move over completely by 2010.
Richard Freudenstein, Sky's Chief Operating Officer, said: "HD will bring a huge leap forward in picture quality when Sky's service launches on satellite next year. The BBC's commitment to HD is very positive news for this exciting technology and ensures that viewers will be able to enjoy an even wider choice of programmes in HD quality. Falling prices for HD Ready TVs available before Christmas are also contributing to growing interest in Sky's plans to launch HD".