The BBC has unveiled its plans to launch a high definition version of BBC One, which is set to begin broadcasting in the autumn.
At the moment the only way in which to get HD content from the BBC is to tune into BBC HD, which represents an amalgamation of various programs shot and shown in HD format from across the BBC’s catalogue, but it does not marry up directly with any of the BBC’s main channels.
When BBC One HD launches, it will follow in the footsteps of Channel 4 HD and duplicate everything that is being shown on the standard definition version of the channel, but with HD content on offer where available.
BBC One HD will automatically upscale the content that is not in HD to make it work with your HD TV and the BBC will also be launching the service in Freeview HD, Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
A BBC spokesperson said that the popularity of the BBC HD channel had shown that there was a significant market for further HD expansion and that BBC One HD would be the perfect place in which to showcase its work in the field of HD TV.
Statistics show that the most-watched HD channel in the UK is currently BBC HD. However, once BBC One HD arrives this could all change, as major shows such as EastEnders and The Apprentice will all be shown in glorious high definition.
By 2012 the BBC is planning to shoot and broadcast most of the material that it produces in HD.
