GO launches HD tv trial

GO plc has launched a trial for its high-definition (HD) tv service.

The company said at the launch this afternoon that it was the first communications company in Malta to already have customers enjoying HD tv over a fibre-to-the-home connection. In addition, in the coming weeks, it would be launching also its own movie channel.

GO's HD trial started in the past few days, with a number of customers benefitting from the viewing of HD channels . More customers will be enjoying the service in the coming months. The service is also being showcased at various GO outlets.

CEO David Kay said that the gradual roll-out of HD tv was in line with the recent statements made by the company's Board of Directors that approved the initial phases of a major investment programme in Next Generation Networks, in the fixed network through which broadband internet is provided and through which other applications will be provided in the near future, as well as in the mobile network.

Mr Kay said GO had started deploying a fibre network to the home in conjunction with the wider upgrading of the current network, specifically in the last mile towards the users. That included the installation of new cabinets which provide higher internet and data speeds.

"Thanks to the deployment of high-speed fibre networks, we will be able to offer our customers higher data speeds as well as new services such as HD tv," Mr Kay said.

GO's Chief Operations Officer Norbert Prihoda said that during the trial, GO would be showcasing a selection of HD channels, covering different genres such as entertainment, sports, documentaries, music and others. GO will be obtaining the public's feedback and reaction on its HD tv offering, in view of an initial commercial launch in selected areas of Malta in Summer.

Competitor Melita TV said earlier today that thousands of television viewers had registered their interest for its High Definition (HD) television service, which will be launched next month in time for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.