SRG to launch 6 HDTV channels

Swiss public broadcaster SRG SSR idée suisse will transmit 6 of its TV channels in high definition via cable and satellite from early 2012. The simulcast in standard definition will continue until 2015, the broadcaster announced in Bern.

It was decided that the dual illumination period will remain as short as possible for cost reasons, SRG explained. Broadcasting in HDTV from 2012 will be SF 1, SF zwei, TSR 1, TSR 2, RSI LA 1 and RSI LA 2.

SRG estimates that around 150,000 Swiss households are currently able to receive HDTV channels. Around 50% of Swiss households already have an HD-capable flat-screen television set which can be used for HD television reception by adding an HD set-top-box. SRG expects the share of HDTV households to amount to 20% by 2012.

SRG has been offering an HDTV channel since December 2007. HD suisse, which shows native HD content provided by SRG’s affiliate stations, will be discontinued with the launch of SRG’s main channels in HDTV in 2012.