Engadget HD http://hd.engadget.com Engadget HD http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/hd.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget HD http://hd.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[BBC confirms Top Gear is filming this season in HD]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/22/bbc-confirms-top-gear-is-filming-this-season-in-hd/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/22/bbc-confirms-top-gear-is-filming-this-season-in-hd/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/22/bbc-confirms-top-gear-is-filming-this-season-in-hd/#comments
We've been wondering for some time when the regular edition of Top Gear (the Polar Special was a glorious, yet singular, event) would make its debut in high definition, and today the BBC Internet Blog confirmed this is the year. Set to debut November 15th, we'll finally be able to see the Stig -- whoever he is -- put some of the world's most exclusive cars through their paces in great quality. Whether that news has you checking the channel lineup for BBC America HD or bookmarking a torrent site we can all agree this is a fine day indeed.

[Via Digital Spy]

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BBC confirms Top Gear is filming this season in HD originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc america hdbbc hdBbcAmericaHdbbchdbcc americaBccAmericacarsenglandnew contentnewcontentrichard hammondRichardHammondstigtop gearTopGearukTue, 22 Sep 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC America HD launches on TWC in NYC]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/20/bbc-america-hd-launches-on-twc-in-nyc/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/20/bbc-america-hd-launches-on-twc-in-nyc/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/20/bbc-america-hd-launches-on-twc-in-nyc/#comments
It's taken nearly a month, but finally someone can see BBC America HD, as the channel has launched on Time Warner Cable in New York City, as part of a channel reshuffling that also brought HSN HD, Headline News HD, Outdoor Channel HD and Turner Classic Movies HD to subscribers. We'll have to check the schedule to see if Primeval, Dr. Who and Torchwood re-airs are on deck for the original launch slate, but in the meantime we'll just settle for catching Being Human at its best.

[Thanks, Eric]

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BBC America HD launches on TWC in NYC originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 16:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbc americabbc america hdbbc hdBbcAmericaBbcAmericaHdbbchdcablenew contentnew yorknewcontentNewYorktime warnertime warner cableTimeWarnerTimeWarnerCableThu, 20 Aug 2009 16:39:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC America promises HD feed announcements "soon"]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/22/bbc-america-promises-hd-feed-announcements-soon/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/22/bbc-america-promises-hd-feed-announcements-soon/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/22/bbc-america-promises-hd-feed-announcements-soon/#comments
As we mentioned, BBC America's HD launch hasn't gone off with quite the bang we'd hoped, since it isn't carried anywhere yet. We called over to find out what's going on or even what resolution the channel will use (we're assuming 1080i, since it's distributed by Discovery) and only heard that they are in negotiations, and Multichannel News is hearing carriage agreements will be announced "soon." With Being Human and Dr. Who set to premiere this weekend, we really don't think there is such a thing as soon enough.

[Thanks, Michael]

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BBC America promises HD feed announcements "soon" originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 23:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc americabbc america hdbbc hdBbcAmericaBbcAmericaHdbbchdbeing humanBeingHumandr. whoDr.WhohdWed, 22 Jul 2009 23:17:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC promises Open Championship in HD next year]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/17/bbc-promises-open-championship-in-hd-next-year/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/17/bbc-promises-open-championship-in-hd-next-year/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/17/bbc-promises-open-championship-in-hd-next-year/#comments
Despite inexplicably choosing to broadcast this year's British Open in standard definition, the BBC pinky swore at a news conference Wednesday that next year, all would be in high definition, it just hadn't been ready yet to invest in HD cameras. As it is, even with thorough widescreen coverage from ABC & TNT, and DirecTV dropping in one of their snazzy HD Mix channels for the event, we'll still know deep down that we're not watching it in the best quality available. So, F1, you're on deck, no excuses.

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BBC promises Open Championship in HD next year originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 17:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abcbbcbbc hdbbchdbritish openBritishOpengolfsportsthe open championshipTheOpenChampionshiptnttnt hdtnthdukFri, 17 Jul 2009 17:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Freeview HD sets a date: December 2]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/26/freeview-hd-sets-a-date-december-2/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/26/freeview-hd-sets-a-date-december-2/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/26/freeview-hd-sets-a-date-december-2/#comments
Finally, after much delay, we have a date to expect Freeview HD service in the UK, at least for those in range of the Winter Hill transmitter (Manchester & Liverpool for sure,) it will go live December 2. elsewhere, you'll be waiting until at least 2010 to experience the joys of OTA HD as has been promised, but keep an eye out and the Beeb, ITV and Channel 4 should be coming your way. Anyone know if those New Zealand PlayTV Freeview HD adaptations will be back-compatible to the UK?

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Freeview HD sets a date: December 2 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdbbchdchannel 4Channel4englandfreeviewfreeview hdFreeviewHditvliverpoolmanchesterotaota hdOtaHdterrestrialukFri, 26 Jun 2009 15:02:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC Worldwide content coming to U.S. Xbox Live, Zune Marketplace]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/01/bbc-worldwide-content-coming-to-u-s-xbox-live-zune-marketplace/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/01/bbc-worldwide-content-coming-to-u-s-xbox-live-zune-marketplace/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/01/bbc-worldwide-content-coming-to-u-s-xbox-live-zune-marketplace/#comments
Apparently having worked out its issues over control, we've got even more BBC news for you with word that some of its programming is coming to Xbox Live and Zune Marketplace in the U.S. No word whether they'll be available in HD, but Torchwood, Dr. Who, Primeval, Top Gear and more are going to be online. Of course, the PS3 and Wii both have iPlayer access (and in the UK users can download videos and play through their consoles) but to get playback here without subscribing to BBC America HD, the Xbox 360 could be a good choice.

Update: It looks like the videos are already up with the BBC America branding, with Torchwood and Robin Hood both 720p HDTV ready.

Continue reading BBC Worldwide content coming to U.S. Xbox Live, Zune Marketplace

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BBC Worldwide content coming to U.S. Xbox Live, Zune Marketplace originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 22:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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After (in our opinion) a too long delay, BBC America is ready to launch its HD simulcast July 20, getting things kicked off with a load of science fiction programming for the summer. Torchwood: Children of Earth is scheduled as the first HD offering, with five consecutive nights of the new season to get things going before the season finale of Primeval shows its stuff in high definition along with the U.S. premiere of Being Human. That's all just a tease until the Sunday, July 26 U.S. premiere of Dr. Who: Planet of the Dead. Of course, in this day and age more than a few may have turned to the internet to catch quality UK television long before the programmes air here, but until iPlayer HD comes across the pond everyone else can look forward to getting their BBC re-airs in the quality they were intended - here's hoping for Top Gear HD next.Full press release and details are after the break.

Continue reading BBC America HD launch July 20 brings plenty of science fiction starting with Torchwood & Dr. Who

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BBC America HD launch July 20 brings plenty of science fiction starting with Torchwood & Dr. Who originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc americabbc hdBbcAmericabbchdbeing humanBeingHumandr whodr. whoDr.WhoDrWhoenglandnew contentnewcontentprimevaltop gearTopGeartorchwoodukMon, 01 Jun 2009 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC reveals stunning sample footage shot with TyphoonHD4 camera]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/07/bbc-reveals-stunning-sample-footage-shot-with-typhoonhd4-camera/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/07/bbc-reveals-stunning-sample-footage-shot-with-typhoonhd4-camera/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/07/bbc-reveals-stunning-sample-footage-shot-with-typhoonhd4-camera/#comments
The BBC has already proven itself to be quite the source for some impressive HD images, but the network's Natural History Unit looks to have really outdone themselves for their forthcoming South Pacific documentary, which makes use of a modified, $100,000 TyphoonHD4 camera. Of course, those exact modifications appear to be a closely-kept secret, but it has apparently been outfitted with a special underwater housing designed by German high-speed camera expert Rudi Diesel, and the camera itself is able to shoot in high definition at 20 times the speed of a normal HD camera, which results in some pretty amazing super slow motion footage. You can get a taste of that after the break but, trust us, you'll want to head up the read link below to really get a sense of what this thing is capable of.

[Via SlashGear]

Continue reading BBC reveals stunning sample footage shot with TyphoonHD4 camera

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BBC reveals stunning sample footage shot with TyphoonHD4 camera originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 07 May 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBCbbc hdbbc natural history unitbbchdBbcNaturalHistoryUnitdocumentaryhdhd camerahd footagehd videoHdCameraHdFootageHdVideohigh speedhigh speed cameraHighSpeedHighSpeedCameranew contentnewcontentsouth pacificSouthPacifictyphoontyphoonhd4Thu, 07 May 2009 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[iPlayer HD content on HDTVs through Virgin Media]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/01/iplayer-hd-content-on-hdtvs-through-virgin-media/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/01/iplayer-hd-content-on-hdtvs-through-virgin-media/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/01/iplayer-hd-content-on-hdtvs-through-virgin-media/#comments
Right on the heels of BBC launching iPlayer HD, now UK residents can watch the same content directly on their HDMI-connected telly on Virgin Media's V+ service. Check one off the list, now we're just waiting for iPlayer HD on Macs, PS3 and what else?

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iPlayer HD content on HDTVs through Virgin Media originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 01 May 2009 12:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The reason Blu-ray recorders have migrated from Japan to the UK recently -- and why you'll likely never see them in the U.S. -- is all about the copyright holders. Danielle Nagler, head of BBC HD, hit the blogs to break down the wheres and hows of the DRM changes associated with bringing FreeSat disc HD DVRs like the Panasonic DMR-BS850 and Humax FOXSAT-HDR to market, basically meaning users are allowed one HD copy of a show, which can be played back on protected devices and connections only (transfer to portable players is planned to the future.) Follow the flow chart for the details, and figure out if it'd be worth it to make your own BD-R DVR backups so easily.

[Via Pocket-Lint]

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BBC breaks down the new DRM rules for Blu-ray recorders originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 17 Apr 2009 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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So, here's the good news. Auntie Beeb will be covering the 2009 season of Formula 1 racing. The bad news? It won't be in HD, at least not at launch. According to a reply by Roger Mosey, the director of BBC Sport, the network will not be making F1 racing available in high-def, though he does confess to "wanting to." Yeah, we'd love to say his "I'll keep you posted" remark gives us overwhelming hope, but sadly, we can't. Prove us wrong, BBC -- we dare you.

[Image courtesy of TheSun, via Digital Spy]

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BBC won't air Formula 1 in HD this season originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 15 Jan 2009 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBCbbc hdbbchdF1Formula 1Formula1sportsportsukThu, 15 Jan 2009 20:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Four BBC channels launch in Sweden, including one in HD]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/12/03/four-bbc-channels-launch-in-sweden-including-one-in-hd/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/12/03/four-bbc-channels-launch-in-sweden-including-one-in-hd/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/12/03/four-bbc-channels-launch-in-sweden-including-one-in-hd/#commentsAs Auntie Beeb forges ahead in her quest to conquer global markets, we've now found that four new BBC networks will be made available in Sweden. Starting this week, Swedes will be able to tune into BBC Entertainment, BBC Knowledge, BBC Lifestyle, as well as a HD channel, as the stations have been signed on to operators Canal Digital, Com Hem, Telia and Tele2. If you can only get one HD channel to start your month, a high-def BBC ain't a bad one to get.

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Four BBC channels launch in Sweden, including one in HD originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBCBBC HDBbcHdexpansionglobalSwedenWed, 03 Dec 2008 17:38:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC HD queues up more high-def content for the holidays]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/12/01/bbc-hd-queues-up-more-hd-content-for-the-holidays/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/12/01/bbc-hd-queues-up-more-hd-content-for-the-holidays/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/12/01/bbc-hd-queues-up-more-hd-content-for-the-holidays/#comments'Tis the season for giving / sharing, so we're glad to see Auntie Beeb in the festive spirit. Reportedly, BBC HD will be bestowing upon its viewers a whole slew of high-def content for the holiday season, including Shrek The Halls, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest and The Chronicles Of Narnia - The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe. Onlookers will also be treated to the long-awaited three-part horror story There Was a Crooked House and The 39 Steps, not to mention a handful of other movies you've certainly been waiting eons to see on broadcast TV. Way to step up the game, BBC -- now, how's about everyone else take a note and follow suit?

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BBC HD queues up more high-def content for the holidays originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 01 Dec 2008 20:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Election Night 2008 brought about an unprecedented amount of HD coverage, and while we're all in absolute agreement that CNN's "holographic" interviews were the comedy for the evening, we're interested on your take on how networks as a whole did with their high-def presentation. Was CBS' polished graphics set enough to overcome those embarrassing audio gaffes? Did ABC / FOX have the edge? Where did you find yourself tuned to most of the night? Drop your vote (hey, there's a concept!) below.

View Poll

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Poll: Which election night broadcast impressed you most? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 01:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abcbbc hdbbchdbroadcastcbscnncontentelectionfoxhd newsHdNewsmccainmsnbcnbcnewsobamapoliticspollpollsprimetimeprogrammingWed, 05 Nov 2008 01:16:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC HD listens to viewers, tones down DOG usage]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/10/22/bbc-hd-listens-to-viewers-tones-down-dog-usage/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/10/22/bbc-hd-listens-to-viewers-tones-down-dog-usage/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/10/22/bbc-hd-listens-to-viewers-tones-down-dog-usage/#commentsDOG, you know, as in digital on-screen graphics? Those absurdly annoying logos that clutter up the screen when you're trying to enjoy a program? Yeah, those. According to a new post on the BBC's official blog, it has listened to the scads of complainers and has taken action to address the concerns. Assuming no technical issues crop up, the "majority" of BBC HD content will be aired DOG-free starting this weekend, and on the material that isn't, the logo will be toned down to "the lowest level that [Auntie Beeb] can while allowing it to remain visible." The author does note that these changes are, um, subject to change, but we can't help but commend her on standing up for the viewing community and keeping the DOGs at bay.

[Via TechRadar]

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BBC HD listens to viewers, tones down DOG usage originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 18:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdbbchdDOGissuelogoproblemsolutionWed, 22 Oct 2008 18:47:00 EST<![CDATA[HD versions of ITV, Channel 4 and BBC coming to Freeview HD in 2009]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/10/18/hd-versions-of-itv-channel-4-and-bbc-coming-to-freeview-hd-in-2/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/10/18/hd-versions-of-itv-channel-4-and-bbc-coming-to-freeview-hd-in-2/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/10/18/hd-versions-of-itv-channel-4-and-bbc-coming-to-freeview-hd-in-2/#commentsLet us speak for all of the UK when we inhale a deep breath of fresh air and say: "Finally!" After hearing earlier this year that plans were in place for Freeview to take the HD plunge in the UK, Ofcom has just made it official. Beginning next year, ITV, Channel 4 and BBC will launch high-def channels on the platform, with an expected go-live date of "late autumn" 2009. It was also confirmed that a fourth HD channel was expected to launch by 2010. As for coverage areas, it's slated to be available in the Granada region next year, followed by Wales, Scotland and the West Country in 2010; Central, Yorkshire, Anglia and Meridian in 2011; and London, Tyne Tees and Ulster by 2012. Oh, and we hate to burst your bubble somewhat, but an all-new set-top-box will be required to juggle both the MPEG-4 and DVB-T2 standards -- bugger!

[Thanks, Ruaidhri]

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HD versions of ITV, Channel 4 and BBC coming to Freeview HD in 2009 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 18 Oct 2008 15:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdbbchdchannelChannel 4Channel4channelsexpansionFreeviewFreeview HDFreeviewHdglobalITVlineupnew contentnewcontentofcomsatelliteukSat, 18 Oct 2008 15:53:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC HD making Scandinavia debut on Canal Digital this December]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/10/05/bbc-hd-making-scandinavia-debut-on-canal-digital-this-december/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/10/05/bbc-hd-making-scandinavia-debut-on-canal-digital-this-december/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/10/05/bbc-hd-making-scandinavia-debut-on-canal-digital-this-december/#commentsBBC HD is taking one more step on its road to world domination by making its debut in continental Europe later this year. The channel is set to launch on Nordic pay-TV platform Canal Digital this December in Scandinavia, and it'll be landing alongside the SD stations BBC Knowledge, BBC Lifestyle and BBC Entertainment. There's no word yet on whether there will be an additional fee for access to the channel, but believe us when we say it'll be worth it even if so.

[Thanks, Mats]

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BBC HD making Scandinavia debut on Canal Digital this December originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 05 Oct 2008 20:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBCBBC HDBbcHdcanal digitalCanalDigitalchannelexpansionglobalnordicsatelliteScandinaviaSun, 05 Oct 2008 20:05:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC's DVB-T2 Freeview HD trials deemed a success]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/09/06/bbcs-dvb-t2-freeview-hd-trials-deemed-a-success/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/09/06/bbcs-dvb-t2-freeview-hd-trials-deemed-a-success/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/09/06/bbcs-dvb-t2-freeview-hd-trials-deemed-a-success/#commentsWe're not quite sure what this means for the immediate future of OTA programming in the UK, but we suppose a "huzzah!" is in order either way. Reportedly, those complicated DVB-T2 Freeview HD trials that were underway have been successful, with Auntie Beeb achieving the "world's first reception of HD pictures over DTT using DVB-T2." If you couldn't guess, DVB-T2 is a successor to the existing DVB-T broadcasting protocol which provides additional bandwidth and more swagger to TV signals. In theory, the switch to DVB-T2 (in conjunction with the move to MPEG-4 from MPEG-2) will enable more high-def content to be available in the UK. Of course, when we say "more," we basically mean "any" -- estimates assert that just three HD stations will be available OTA in the UK by 2009, one of which will be owned by the BBC and the other two by ITV, Channel 4 or Five.

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BBC's DVB-T2 Freeview HD trials deemed a success originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 06 Sep 2008 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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There's nothing here that wasn't apparent already, but SES ASTRA is just now getting around to boasting about a dozen HD channels that it's hosting to broadcast the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Ready for an exhaustive list? The channels broadcasting the Olympics in HD include for the UK, BBC HD, for France, France 2 HD and CANAL+ HD, for Germany, ANIXE HD, for Poland, TVP HD, for the Slovak Republic, STV3, for the Netherlands, 1 HD, for Belgium een HD, for Spain, TELEDEPORTE HD, for Sweden, Viasat HD and SVT HD and for Austria, ORF HD. So yeah, if you somehow missed this for the first week of the Games, at least you're clued in now.

[Image courtesy of Beijing 2008]

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SES ASTRA tardily trumpets 12 channels of HD Olympics across Europe originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 19 Aug 2008 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anixeanixe hdAnixeHdastrabbc hdbbchdbeijing olympicsBeijingOlympicsbroadcastcanalcanal hdCanal Hdcontenteuropefrancegermanyglobalnew contentnewcontentolympic gamesOlympicGamesolympicsorf hdOrfHdpolandprogrammingsatelliteSES ASTRASesAstraspainsportsstv3svt hdSvtHdukviasatTue, 19 Aug 2008 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[New head of BBC HD aims to get serious about high-def programming]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/07/20/new-head-of-bbc-hd-aims-to-get-serious-about-high-def-programmin/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/07/20/new-head-of-bbc-hd-aims-to-get-serious-about-high-def-programmin/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/07/20/new-head-of-bbc-hd-aims-to-get-serious-about-high-def-programmin/#comments
Those feeling a little let down by what BBC HD offers have renewed hope for the future, as Seetha Kumar has "been replaced as the head of BBC HD by Danielle Nagler, who most recently worked as head of the director general's office." Reportedly, the new boss' main priorities are to "focus on growing the channel by driving consumer take-up, working with in-house and independent producers to increase HD programming, and leading preparations for BBC HD's launch on Freeview." Better still, Nagler understands that the potential for high-def uptake in the UK and elsewhere is huge, and he's hoping to make BBC HD "a mainstream choice" for its audiences. From here, we're hoping that a big push in high-definition from Auntie Beeb will encourage other channels to make the requisite investments and follow suit. After all, you can expect consumers to shell out for HD content when there isn't any to buy.

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New head of BBC HD aims to get serious about high-def programming originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 20 Jul 2008 20:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdBbcHdbusinessceoexecindustryprogrammingSun, 20 Jul 2008 20:46:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC forges ahead with DVB-T2 Freeview HD trial]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/07/02/bbc-forges-ahead-with-dvb-t2-freeview-hd-trial/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/07/02/bbc-forges-ahead-with-dvb-t2-freeview-hd-trial/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/07/02/bbc-forges-ahead-with-dvb-t2-freeview-hd-trial/#comments
Although Freeview has been destined for HD for quite some time, it has been far too long since we've heard about any progress. Thankfully, the Beeb is attempting to change all that, and it's moving forward with DVB-T2 tests. Reportedly, said standard is an advanced version of DVB-T -- the protocol currently used in the UK for digital terrestrial transmissions -- that provides an increase in efficiency and more bandwidth for more content. If all goes to plan, at least three high-def channels (one of which will be BBC) will be carried via DVB-T2 by the close of 2009, but it seems that ITV, Channel 4 and Five will have to cast lots for the remaining two openings.

[Via Digital Spy]

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BBC forges ahead with DVB-T2 Freeview HD trial originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBCbbc hdbbchdDVB-TDVB-T2FreeviewglobalotaukWed, 02 Jul 2008 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC teaming with NHK for Super Hi-Vision trials]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/06/02/bbc-teaming-with-nhk-for-super-hi-vision-trials/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/06/02/bbc-teaming-with-nhk-for-super-hi-vision-trials/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/06/02/bbc-teaming-with-nhk-for-super-hi-vision-trials/#comments
Talk about getting around. Auntie Beeb has jumped from Freeview to FreeSat to Sky HD to iPlayer to who knows where else in no particular order, and while the vast majority of Europe is still struggling to adopt vanilla HD, the network is already dipping its toes in the next best thing. Reportedly, the BBC is all set to participate in a transmission trial using the Super Hi-Vision (SHV) system developed by Japan's NHK. The series of demonstrations will combine content from Japan and London, and the actual screenings are supposed to take place in the NHK Theater using an 8k x 4k projector. We'll admit, this isn't the very first time we've heard that The Beeb may be interested in this stuff, but with the UK-based 2012 Olympics growing ever closer, it looks like the dedication may be ratcheting up.

[Via TechRadar, thank L. Rawlins]

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BBC teaming with NHK for Super Hi-Vision trials originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4k8kbbcbbc hdbbchdglobaljapanNHKother formatsotherformatsRAISHVSuper Hi-VisionSuperHi-visionMon, 02 Jun 2008 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Gear HD, NBC editions stuck in park]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/05/15/top-gear-hd-nbc-editions-stuck-in-park/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/05/15/top-gear-hd-nbc-editions-stuck-in-park/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/05/15/top-gear-hd-nbc-editions-stuck-in-park/#commentsRemember how excited we were to hear that the next season of Top Gear might be delivered from across the pond in HD glory, and that NBC was considering producing an American edition? How we danced in the streets, partook of libations, and slaughtered the fatted calf? Scratch all that, as it appears neither is coming to fruition, at least anytime soon. Autoblog has word that NBC couldn't find a cast for Top Gear (although they've had no problem scratching together a group for that abomination of a Knight Rider remake), while the BBC edition is without a debut date for a new (& shortened) season, and has only word of "specific production challenges" when questioned about HD. While we've been blessed with a bevy of horsepower in HD this year, it's just not the same without Jeremy, Richard and The Stig.

Read - We've been lied to: New episodes of Top Gear actually not coming June 15
Read - NBC passes on U.S. Top Gear for now

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Top Gear HD, NBC editions stuck in park originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 15 May 2008 21:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbc hdBbcHdnbcnew contentnewcontentthe stigTheStigtop gearTopGearThu, 15 May 2008 21:51:00 EST<![CDATA[FreeSat gets hands-on treatment]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/05/07/freesat-gets-hands-on-treatment/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/05/07/freesat-gets-hands-on-treatment/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/05/07/freesat-gets-hands-on-treatment/#comments

That's the way to show your dedication for high-def! Just a day after FreeSat went live across the pond, CNET's UK branch has already had a chance to check out a £150 Grundig HD box, top-of-the-line Humax FOXSAT-HD set-top, the EPGs on both and of course, BBC HD. From way over here, the snaps sure look fine, and we couldn't be happier for blokes / dames halfway across the world to have a new alternative for fetching HD content. Tap the read link and have a look, won't you?

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FreeSat gets hands-on treatment originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 07 May 2008 17:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbc hdbbchdeuropefreesatglobalgrundighands-onhumaxotasatelliteukWed, 07 May 2008 17:06:00 EST<![CDATA[FreeSat TV service goes live across the UK]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/05/06/freesat-tv-service-goes-live-across-the-uk/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/05/06/freesat-tv-service-goes-live-across-the-uk/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/05/06/freesat-tv-service-goes-live-across-the-uk/#commentsWe knew it was coming, and after waiting for quite some time for FreeSat to go from concept to reality, television viewers across the UK can finally indulge. If you'll recall, a recent survey found that just 5-percent of Europe's HDTV owners actually bothered to tune into HD programming, but now that number is likely to change. Effective today, 98-percent of the UK can fork out a one-time fee of £49 ($96) to £120 ($234) in order to acquire a FreeSat set-top-box, and after an £80 ($156) installation, users will have subscription-free access to BBC HD, ITV HD (coming soon), Channel 4's digital service and around 70 other TV / radio channels. Better still, that number is slated to rise to 200 before the year's end, and unsurprisingly, the launch is expected to boost available high-def offerings in the region. Anyone across the pond have their equipment set up already? How's the service?

[Thanks, Ivan]

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FreeSat TV service goes live across the UK originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 06 May 2008 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdbbchdbroadcastbroadcastingenglandeuropefreesatglobalitvlaunchnew contentnewcontentofficialotaota hdOtaHdprogrammingsatelliteukTue, 06 May 2008 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[FreeSat launch details emerge, service begins May 6]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/23/freesat-launch-details-emerge-service-begins-april-25th/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/23/freesat-launch-details-emerge-service-begins-april-25th/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/23/freesat-launch-details-emerge-service-begins-april-25th/#commentsYou patient folks over in the UK have waited a long time for FreeSat to become a reality, and it seems as if that wait will come to an end this Friday. According to an anonymous source across the pond, his store has received a memo stating that the service will go live on April 25th May 6th. Additionally, professional installation is set to run customers around £80, while receivers will set citizens back £40 to £100 depending on which box you choose. We're also told that both SD and HD set-top-boxes will be available, and even though they're expecting a rush of orders from day one, installation should be taken care of within a week or so at the latest. Hopefully this little birdie isn't too far off -- guess we'll find out soon enough.

Update: It's looking like May 6th now.

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FreeSat launch details emerge, service begins May 6 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 23 Apr 2008 17:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdbbchdbroadcastbroadcastingfreesatglobalitvlaunchnew contentnewcontentofficialotaota hdOtaHdprogrammingukWed, 23 Apr 2008 17:19:00 EST<![CDATA['Frozen Planet' due out before Hell freezes over]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/13/frozen-planet-due-out-before-hell-freezes-over/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/13/frozen-planet-due-out-before-hell-freezes-over/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/13/frozen-planet-due-out-before-hell-freezes-over/#comments'Frozen Planet' due out before Hell freezes over The enduring popularity of "Planet Earth" is compelling enough to its backers to convince them to go back to the well. The Discovery Channel and BBC's Natural History Unit are teaming up again to cover the poles of the Earth in "Frozen Planet." HD content captured from the Arctic and Antarctic? Sign us up! You've got plenty of time to continue enjoying that HDM copy of Planet Earth, though -- the new feature is not set to air until 2012. Yeah, that hurts, but quality takes time, friends. The real question is what HDM format this feature will emerge on (if any still exist); this is one title we'll be putting in our library wishlist.

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'Frozen Planet' due out before Hell freezes over originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 13 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdbbchddiscovery channeldiscovery hdDiscoveryChanneldiscoveryhdnew contentnewcontentplanet earthPlanetEarthSun, 13 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC criticizes Sony, Microsoft's approach to streaming video on consoles]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/11/bbc-criticizes-sony-microsofts-approach-to-streaming-video-on/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/11/bbc-criticizes-sony-microsofts-approach-to-streaming-video-on/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/11/bbc-criticizes-sony-microsofts-approach-to-streaming-video-on/#commentsWhy does the hardly-home-theater styled Wii have BBC's iPlayer, and not the much more media player-focused Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3? A note from a BBC employees blog details the troubles of getting things set up with Sony and Microsoft (although with a little tweaking, a PS3 owner has already set up PS3iPlayer.com to give the console iPlayer access) officially, since "they want control of the look, the feel and the experience". Sure BBC's iPlayer is Flash-based (and not the good 1080p Flash either) but their issues could indicate how difficult it will be for other interested parties like Netflix to gain access to the walled garden.

[Via Joystiq]

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BBC criticizes Sony, Microsoft's approach to streaming video on consoles originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 11 Apr 2008 07:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdbbchdflashinternetiplayeriptvplaystation 3Playstation3ps3wiixbox 360Xbox360Fri, 11 Apr 2008 07:04:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC HD heads to Taiwan on Chunghwa Telecom]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/05/bbc-hd-heads-to-taiwan-on-chunghwa-telecom/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/05/bbc-hd-heads-to-taiwan-on-chunghwa-telecom/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/05/bbc-hd-heads-to-taiwan-on-chunghwa-telecom/#commentsBBC HD is about to head east -- way east. This month, the channel will make its Taiwanese debut via an SVOD (subscription video-on-demand) service on Chunghwa Telecom. Viewers who tune in will reportedly be able to select from "ten three-hour multiple genre blocks of programs at any one time," which will feature "drama, comedy, documentary, natural history, music and arts programming." Of note, the channel will be shown in English with traditional Chinese subtitles added on, but there will be "program promos and navigational menus in traditional Chinese."

[Via Variety]

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BBC HD heads to Taiwan on Chunghwa Telecom originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 05 Apr 2008 23:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdBbcHdcableChunghwa TelecomChunghwaTelecomglobalsingaporesvodTaiwanSat, 05 Apr 2008 23:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Freeview going HD in the UK]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/03/freeview-going-hd-in-england/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/03/freeview-going-hd-in-england/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/04/03/freeview-going-hd-in-england/#comments
It's official: HD aficionados in the UK will soon be able to get their fix via Freeview. If you'll recall, the Freeview HD trial that took place in 2006 went over quite well, and according to Ofcom, up to four free HD channels will be broadcast. Unfortunately, users looking forward to such niceties will be forced to wait until analog is switched off in their neck of the woods, and of course they'll also need an HD-ready TV and a new set-top-box. We've already heard that BBC will be one of the four channels, and ITV, Channel 4, Five and Welsh network S4C have all been "invited to bid for [the other] three slots in which they can broadcast high-definition TV or other new services." On the upside, the whole of the country should be digital by 2012, just in time for the London Olympics -- and for those lucky souls in and around Whitehaven, you'll get the spoils first.

[Thanks, Kieran and Andy]

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Freeview going HD in the UK originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 03 Apr 2008 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdbbchdbreaking newsBreakingNewsbritainbroadcastdigital tvDigitalTvenglandfreeviewitvlondonolympicsotaswitchoverukThu, 03 Apr 2008 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC broadcasting Rugby Six Nations match in 3D]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/02/28/bbc-broadcasting-rugby-six-nations-match-in-3d/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/02/28/bbc-broadcasting-rugby-six-nations-match-in-3d/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/02/28/bbc-broadcasting-rugby-six-nations-match-in-3d/#commentsNot happy letting us Yankees get away with all the 3D sporting action, the BBC plans to test a 3D HD broadcast of a Rugby Six Nations match next month. A lot like the NBA's test with last year's All-Star Game and NBA Finals, the March 8th game between Scotland and England will be captured by three camera rigs and then transmitted via satellite -- unlike the fiber connection used by the NBA -- to an audience watching a big screen with 3D glasses. Can Communicate, Inition and Axis are the companies forming 3DFirm, which is partnering with the Beeb to make the whole thing happen, including working out a new style of camera work and post production. We won't say we're waiting for a 3D broadcast of real football to get excited about these tests (we'll just think it.)

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BBC broadcasting Rugby Six Nations match in 3D originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 28 Feb 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3dfirmbbc hdbbchdenglandrugbyrugby six nationsRugbySixNationssatellitescotlandsportsukThu, 28 Feb 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Foxtel's HD+ hits Australia in mid-2008]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/01/30/foxtels-hd-hits-australia-in-mid-2008/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/01/30/foxtels-hd-hits-australia-in-mid-2008/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/01/30/foxtels-hd-hits-australia-in-mid-2008/#commentsAustralians have another HD provider to look forward to, as Foxtel has announced its HD+ service, launching mid-2008. Slated to start with four full time HD channels, featuring content from BBC HD, Discovery HD, National Geographic HD, Fox Sports HD and ESPN HD, Foxtel calls it the most expansive HD offering in Australia, more than the Seven and Ten networks. Plans call for more channels after another satellite goes up in 2009, meanwhile the company is rolling the service out with a new iQ2 set-top DVR box complete with 320GB HD for recordings and On Demand content downloaded either via cable or satellite. Most importantly, customers can expect to catch the 2010 Commonwealth Games in HD, and check out a very trippy animated representation of HD's pixels on Foxtel's website and blog. Frankly, we're not sure the blog is a good idea, with only 20% of customers estimated to have an HDTV, who would really read daily updates on high definition related issues?

Read - Announcing Foxtel HD+
Read - Meet the Pixels

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Foxtel's HD+ hits Australia in mid-2008 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 30 Jan 2008 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>576paustraliabbc hdbbchdcablecommonwealth gamesCommonwealthGamesdiscovery hddiscoveryhdespn hdespnhdfoxtelhdiq2satelliteWed, 30 Jan 2008 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC still mulling Blu-ray exclusive decision]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2008/01/16/bbc-still-mulling-blu-ray-exclusive-decision/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/01/16/bbc-still-mulling-blu-ray-exclusive-decision/http://hd.engadget.com/2008/01/16/bbc-still-mulling-blu-ray-exclusive-decision/#comments
We already knew that New Line Cinema (owned by Time Warner, which also owns Engadget's parent companies) and HBO Home Video would be following Warner into the land of the Blu, but it seems as if BBC Video (which also distributes through Warner) has yet to make a decision of its own. According to TVShowsOnDVD, The Beeb has reiterated that it will continue to support both HD DVD / Blu-ray for now and "will evaluate the marketplace before committing to one format." Apparently, Planet Earth has been moving quite well on the red front, and considering just how different its content is compared with New Line / HBO, we wouldn't be shocked to see it stick with both for awhile longer. Still, the cards are certainly stacked in BD's favor, but only time will tell if the BBC will continue to bleed purple.

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BBC still mulling Blu-ray exclusive decision originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 16 Jan 2008 14:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdbbchdblu rayblu-rayblu-ray exclusiveBlu-rayExclusiveblurayexclusiveformat warFormatWarhbo hdhbohdhd dvdHdDvdnew lineNewLinePlanet EarthPlanetEarthwarnerwarner bros.WarnerBros.Wed, 16 Jan 2008 14:21:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC officially launches HD channel]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2007/12/02/bbc-officially-launches-hd-channel/http://hd.engadget.com/2007/12/02/bbc-officially-launches-hd-channel/http://hd.engadget.com/2007/12/02/bbc-officially-launches-hd-channel/#commentsThe writing has certainly been on the wall, particularly of late, but the long-awaited dedicated BBC HD has finally launched on cable and satellite. This means that viewers will be able to see programs such as Strictly Come Dancing and Cranford in high-definition, and moreover, the Queen's Christmas message will also be broadcast in HD for the first time this year. As we'd heard, Freeview audiences will still have to wait, but those tuning in via cable / satellite can catch HD programming for nine hours per day that will showcase content from all of the BBC's stations. Notably, Kill Bill and Sin City are also on the list to be shown in HD later this month, which should certainly inject a healthy dose of holiday cheer (or violent tendencies) into your soul. So, for those of you in Britain, how's the new station?

[Via HDTV Reviews]

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BBC officially launches HD channel originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 02 Dec 2007 12:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdBbcHdcablechannelexpansionlaunchnew contentnewcontentotasatelliteukSun, 02 Dec 2007 12:42:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC, ITV and Channel 4 team up for on-demand service]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2007/11/27/bbc-itv-and-channel-4-team-up-for-on-demand-service/http://hd.engadget.com/2007/11/27/bbc-itv-and-channel-4-team-up-for-on-demand-service/http://hd.engadget.com/2007/11/27/bbc-itv-and-channel-4-team-up-for-on-demand-service/#comments
Don't look now, but it seems that three rivals in the UK have found enough love in their hearts (or promise for profitability) to team up for the good of the consumer. Reportedly, the BBC, ITV and Channel 4 will be joining hands in order to deliver an on-demand service that hopes to "bring together hundreds of hours of television programs in one place" -- a collaborative effort once known as Project Kangaroo. Of course, the grand idea still has to be approved by the BBC Trust and other broadcasters' boards, and an official name for the service still has to be thought up, but at least the wheels are apparently turning, right? We're hearing that content from the trio will be available for "free download, streaming, rental and purchase via the internet, with expansion onto other platforms planned," and just in case you were curious, the iPlayer, ITV's catch-up service and Channel 4oD will indeed coexist with the new aggregator. Hang tight UK, the to-be-named service is set to go live sometime next year should things pan out nicely.

[Via Yahoo / Reuters]

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BBC, ITV and Channel 4 team up for on-demand service originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 27 Nov 2007 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4odbbcbbc hdbbchdchannel 4Channel4contentinternetinternet tvInternetTviptvitvnew contentnewcontenton-demandpartnerpartnershiptvukTue, 27 Nov 2007 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC Trust approves mixed-genre HD channel]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2007/11/19/bbc-trust-green-lights-mixed-genre-hd-channel/http://hd.engadget.com/2007/11/19/bbc-trust-green-lights-mixed-genre-hd-channel/http://hd.engadget.com/2007/11/19/bbc-trust-green-lights-mixed-genre-hd-channel/#commentsJust a month after we heard that the BBC was mulling the decision to add a dedicated HD channel comes word that the BBC Trust has given the all-important thumbs-up to the idea. Reportedly, the "mixed genre" channel will show programs from across all of the BBC's stations and will air on cable / satellite "as soon as possible." Additionally, the channel should launch on Freesat just as soon as that goes live, but proposals for viewing it via Freeview were put on hold "because viewers might have been required to buy two new set-top boxes to receive the channel." So, for all you Brits out there, let us know how splendid the channel is when it becomes available -- hopefully your patience will pay off.

[Via Guardian]

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BBC Trust approves mixed-genre HD channel originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdbbc trustBbcHdBbcTrustcablechannelexpansionfreesatfreeviewnew contentnewcontentotasatelliteMon, 19 Nov 2007 17:34:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC still deciding if they need a dedicated HD station]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2007/10/19/bbc-still-deciding-if-they-need-a-dedicated-hd-station/http://hd.engadget.com/2007/10/19/bbc-still-deciding-if-they-need-a-dedicated-hd-station/http://hd.engadget.com/2007/10/19/bbc-still-deciding-if-they-need-a-dedicated-hd-station/#comments
The BBC have been testing a dedicated high-def station, which should end in November '07, to determine if they need a dedication high-def station -- hellz yeah, they do. BBC HD seems to have a mash-up lineup similar to Discovery HD Theater with shows from other BBC channels all merged into one dedicated mega-channel. Currently, BBC is taking 50% of their content from BBC One, 30% from BBC Two and the other 20% is coming from BBC's other digital channels making up the high definition station that will launch in 2012. The programming seems to be there and we sure know people want HDTV, so why the wait for the British digital switch-over in 2012? It doesn't sound like BBC HD needs more testing, cut through the red tape and just launch the channel to high-def starved Brits already.

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BBC still deciding if they need a dedicated HD station originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 19 Oct 2007 08:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdBbcHdbritianukFri, 19 Oct 2007 08:53:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC, ITV to launch free satellite HDTV in UK by 2008]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2007/04/28/bbc-itv-to-launch-free-satellite-hdtv-in-uk-by-2008/http://hd.engadget.com/2007/04/28/bbc-itv-to-launch-free-satellite-hdtv-in-uk-by-2008/http://hd.engadget.com/2007/04/28/bbc-itv-to-launch-free-satellite-hdtv-in-uk-by-2008/#commentsAlthough there's a lot of grumbling in the UK about that £135 ($270) yearly television license fee (only $87 for a black and white set!), it's hard to complain that the BBC doesn't try to use all that money in cool ways. Adding to their already-ambitious plans to distribute HDTV through torrent, datacasting, and IPTV, the Beeb announced today that, after years of delays, they've been approved to pair up with ITV and launch a free 200-channel HD-capable satellite service called Freesat in the spring of 2008. The move is designed to provide digital service to the estimated 25% of the British public that can't get the successful Freeview DVB-T service, but it'll also be free to any license payer who ponys up for one of the several available interactive receivers. Hmm, that's an interesting version of "free," must be the British spelling.

[Via TechDigest]

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BBC, ITV to launch free satellite HDTV in UK by 2008 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 28 Apr 2007 12:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc hdbbchdfreesatfreeviewitvsatelliteSat, 28 Apr 2007 12:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Planet Earth HD DVD and Blu-ray review]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2007/04/24/planet-earth-hd-dvd-and-blu-ray-review/http://hd.engadget.com/2007/04/24/planet-earth-hd-dvd-and-blu-ray-review/http://hd.engadget.com/2007/04/24/planet-earth-hd-dvd-and-blu-ray-review/#commentsHigh-Def Digest just released their review of both the HD DVD and Blu-ray version of Planet Earth. The video quality and audio quality sections of the review for both are identical, because both discs use the same VC1 encode and DD 5.1 audio (488kbps). According to Hi-Def Digest this is a must owned demo disc for both formats and that other than the normal low light artifacts that video is known for, the video quality is some of the best they have seen for either format. The audio on the other hand leaves something to be desired, but isn't bad. The good news is that neither format showed the type of compression artifacts that we have some to live with from sat or cable and that both versions outshine the broadcast version you may have already seen.

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Planet Earth HD DVD and Blu-ray review originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 24 Apr 2007 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbc hdbbchdblu rayBlu-rayblurayDiscovery HDDiscoveryHdHD DVDHdDvdPlanet EarthPlanetEarthTue, 24 Apr 2007 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[No HD Doctor Who for BBC watchers]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2007/03/21/no-hd-doctor-who-for-bbc-watchers/http://hd.engadget.com/2007/03/21/no-hd-doctor-who-for-bbc-watchers/http://hd.engadget.com/2007/03/21/no-hd-doctor-who-for-bbc-watchers/#comments
This one goes out to all of our peeps across the pond who receive BBC HD. It doesn't look like you will be getting Doctor Who in high-def anytime soon. The producers are blaming the amount of special effects found in each episode as the reason. We can kind of understand where they are coming from 'cause all those sci-fi staples like glowing laser beams and random teleportation sure look fancy so they must cost a bunch. We feel for our British HDTV-loving brethren every Sunday night when Battlestar Galactic comes on good 'ol SDTV.

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No HD Doctor Who for BBC watchers originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 21 Mar 2007 15:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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