Broadcaster BSkyB has announced plans to launch a dedicated HD news channel in Spring 2010. The channel, named Sky News HD, will be simulcast alongside Sky's standard-def news channel and promises breaking coverage with "stunning picture quality".
BSkyB's Sky+HD remains a driving force in the take up of HD programming in the UK, with an estimated 1.02m subscribers said to be utilising its HD service in March 2009. Hoping to maintain its leading position in HD programming, Sky News HD looks set to become the UK's first high-definition news channel.
In order to facilitate its new channel, Sky's in the progress of upgrading its news studios and production facilities, as well as training production teams to get the most from HD technology.
Commenting on the announcement, head of Sky News John Ryley had this to say:
"Sky News HD marks another landmark for a news organisation, now in its 21st year of broadcasting. It’s an investment in the future of news, for the audiences of today and tomorrow. It is a vision that clearly defines Sky's strengths, passion and restless pursuit to be first and to be the best.
As well as enhanced studio presentation and compelling on-air graphics, news is also about the drama of human emotion: from keynote speeches and police news conferences to picket lines and joyful crowds at ceremonial events, HD is an opportunity to bring our viewers much closer to events, building on one of Sky News’ existing strengths, and we’re delighted that we can now announce we will be working toward launching this exciting new service next year."
