HD falters in Europe

The recent closure of two of Germany's HDTV channels has cast a shadow over European hopes for a rapid transition to high definition, according to Strategy Analytics. The report concludes that Europe's television providers should concentrate their resources initially on building pay television rather than advertising-based business models in order to reach the critical mass of HD content and receivers necessary to make HDTV a self-sustaining business (Advanced Television)

All eyes switch to ‘smart’ televisions

Panasonic, part of Japan’s Matsushita Electric Industrial group, is to start to sell internet-connected televisions in the US that are able to access Google’s YouTube online video service. The deal marks the first partnership between a Japanese consumer electronics manufacturer and Google, the internet search and advertising giant. It emphasises the drive by flat panel TV makers to build internet and networking connectivity into the next generation of high-definition TVs. (Financial Times)

Comcast to launch 4-min HD movie downloads

Superfast Internet speeds on Comcast Corp this year will allow subscribers to download a whole high-definition movie in just four minutes, as the largest U.S. cable operator hastens to fight off competition from phone and satellite companies. Comcast will also offer up to 1,000 HD movies and programs for downloads in another new service slated for 2008, in hopes of winning back customers and boosting its stock. (Reuters)