TelstraClear Launches Long-Awaited Digital Television Service
Posted on: Tuesday, 23 August 2005, 15:00 CDT
TelstraClear has launched its long-awaited digital TV service for customers on its network in Wellington and Christchurch.
Head of consumer sales Steve Jackson said the new service is "arguably the best pay TV service in New Zealand".
TelstraClear is promising DVD-quality picture and sound which will provide a better image for people who have a plasma, LCD or widescreen TV. The service has been made possible by an investment of several million dollars in upgrading its cable network, Jackson said.
Most of the content will come from satellite provider Sky TV's range, but Jackson said consumers will have a greater range to choose from, "also we've got no rain fade and dishes on the outside of houses," Jackson said.
Subscribers who want digital TV will need to have at least a phone line with TelstraClear, and can take a range of other services including broadband at up to 10 megabits per second.
Overseas, some experts have predicted that "triple-play" services -- phone, broadband and TV over one cable connection -- is the future of the telecommunications industry.
"This differentiates us from our competitors, because we can have the whole package through one bill," Jackson said.
Telecom said it is trialling digital TV and monitoring industry developments but no decisions have been made about an offering of its own.
TelstraClear is also looking at video-on- demand services, where customers can order a movie without leaving the lounge. Jackson said no decision had been made on this service.
To get digital TV customers will need to pay a $199 connection fee, and will get a set-top box and a cable modem. Basic packages start from $64.95 for phone and digital TV, with channels such as Sky Sport costing extra.
TelstraClear's programming includes a dedicated Christian channel and 27 pay- for-view movie channels.
Telstra sale `still possible' -- C7
Source: Press, The; Christchurch, New Zealand
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