MediaCorp rolls out High-Definition TV (HDTV) channel First in Southeast Asia to launch HDTV channel

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MediaCorp rolls out High-Definition TV (HDTV) channel First in Southeast Asia to launch HDTV channel on terrestrial platform

Singapore , 6 July 2007 – MediaCorp plans to launch its HDTV commercial channel in the last quarter of 2007 and be the first broadcaster in Southeast Asia to roll out an HDTV channel on terrestrial platform.

Since June 2006, MediaCorp had conducted an HDTV trial where 1000 households, community clubs and retail outlets got to experience HD programmes such as CSI, Smallville as well as MediaCorp’s locally-produced productions and co-productions with China. From the trials, about 50% of homes are able to receive the HD signal.

Says Mr Chang Long Jong, MediaCorp Deputy CEO (Television), “Our decision to launch an HD channel this year is based on the very favourable feedback received from our trial users. We hope to offer our viewers the ultimate tv viewing experience harnessing the latest technologies in visual and sound.”

Between now and the launch date (to be announced later), viewers who can receive the signal and have the requisite HD equipment (see Annex 1) will experience better clarity of programmes on the new HD channel - HD 5. HD5 is a simulcast of Channel 5 with programmes enhanced for display on HD-Ready TV sets. In addition, viewers can look forward to some true HD content such as Hollywood movies and TV series (e.g. CSI) as well as local programmes (e.g. Lifeline) produced in HD.

MediaCorp plans to broadcast all its channels in High Definition by 2012.