Channel 4 to air all content on broadband

by Jeremy Lee, Campaign 07-Jul-05, 11:00

LONDON - Viewers will be able to watch Channel 4 on their computers by the end of the year, with news that the broadcaster is planning to simulcast all of its TV content via broadband.

At present, Channel 4 restricts its broadband content to repeats of shows such as 'Trick of the Mind', 'Johnny Vegas: 18 Stone of Idiot' and 'Jamie's School Dinners'.

However, the broadcaster is planning to make its entire schedule broadband-enabled and transmit its programming over the internet at the same time as the TV feed, via the Channel4.com website.

The move has been made possible by increased broadband speeds. HomeChoice already operates a broadband video-on-demand service in the London region, while BT has recently announced it will be launching a trial of the service early next year.

In May, Channel 4 terminated its broadband contract with Real Player to create its own broadband capability. This week, it added Channel 4 News to the existing programming available via broadband from the Channel 4 website.

The strategy is a key part of the Channel 4 chief executive Andy Duncan's mission to highlight the accessibility of Channel 4 programming and secure its core status as a public service broadcaster.

A Channel 4 spokeswoman said that Channel 4 was still in the process of developing its broadband strategy and that it would be making further announcements over the next six months.

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