June 24, 2008

Notable HD: Important/Interesting Initiatives from the High-Def Arena

Versus and Golf Channel won't have to share an HD channel much longer. Comcast plans to launch simulcast HD nets for each channel in Dec. E! will also launch in HD. Versus and Golf launched a hybrid HD net in Jan, with Golf programming airing from noon-7pm and Versus telecasting 7pm-midnight. Talks are underway with distributors. — Lifetime Movie Net is celebrating its 10th anniversary this month with the roll out of a HD simulcast. — NHL Net is now offered in both HD and SD through SES Americom's IP-Prime delivery platform, which now counts more than 30 sports channels among its channel lineup of more than 300 nets. — Cox Business has launched its HD VOD platform in 2 Vegas properties, the new Encore at Wynn Las Vegas and condo-hotel Palms Place, which also now receives CB's cable TV and wired/wireless Internet connectivity services. — LodgeNet Interactive is partnering with LG Electronics, Philips and Panasonic to provide more efficient HDTV service to hotels. The 3 TV manufacturers will deliver HDTVs that are "plug-and-play" and designed to lower total costs, enable faster room openings and enhance performance for hoteliers.