Sky readies PVRs for high-definition TV

by Ian Quinn, Media Week 24-Mar-06, 13:31

Sky has revealed it will begin installing high definition TV-equipped PVRs in May.

The boxes, which will cost customers £299, plus a £10 a month additional subscription, will enable subscribers with HD-ready TVs to receive a package of Sky's own HD channels, including Sky One, Sky Sports HD and Sky Movies HD, as well as HD channels from partners including Artsworld and National Geographic.

Brian Sullivan, Sky's director of product strategy and management, said: "Sky is just weeks away from an exciting new era that will transform the television viewing experience."

The move comes in the same week that the BBC confirmed plans to broadcast all its World Cup matches in the new format, as well as matches played on Centre and Number One courts during the Wimbledon championships.
The BBC's service will be available free to air, but only available to Sky or cable viewers with an HD-ready TV and set top box.