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In anticipation of the accelerated nationwide rollout of high-def content, Freeview has revamped the HD section of its website and made available a Freeview HD coverage checker.

The availability check, accessible via freeview.co.uk/availability/main/indexhd, requires a user's post code and house number to predict when Freeview HD will become available to a particular region.

Freeview has previously stated that 50 per cent of the UK population will receive HD coverage in time for the 2010 football World Cup, and the first broadcasts have already begun.

In order to tune in to Freeview HD transmissions, however, viewers will require TVs or set-top-boxes equipped with a new DVB-T2 tuner. Compatible devices from a number of manufacturers are expected to become available in the coming months.

Freeview HD will initially offer three high-definition channels - BBC HD, ITV HD and 4HD - as part of its line-up, with a fourth channel - widely believed to be Five HD - expected to follow shortly after.

In the coming months, the free-to-air digital terrestrial service will go head-to-head with the likes of Sky as it competes for a place in high-definition homes. Freeview HD is expected to launch an extensive ad campaign in a matter of weeks, with the slogan "Buy Today, Watch Today, Free Forever".

Firing its first shot to competitors, Freeview recently announced the results of a YouGov survey that revealed 17 per cent of Sky+HD subscribers were "likely" to switch to Freeview HD, a figure that equates to over 350,000 users. The Freeview-commissioned survey also found that 12 per cent were likely to make the switch from Virgin Media, whilst 18 per cent were found likely to upgrade from Freeview to Freeview HD.

Freeview managing director Ilse Howling has stated that ""if people want sport or big-budget premium movies then clearly Sky has a very strong offer".

"If people want a public service version of HD then Freeview has a very strong offer. Consumers will have to make up their minds what's important to them."

Howling also revealed that Freeview will consider the possibility of 3D broadcasts at a later stage, suggesting that it would first await consumer reaction to Europe's first 3D channel, scheduled to be made available by Sky this April.

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