How much space is there left on DTT for other channels and services?
Ch14 is supposed to be reserved for Channel4. Debate is raging as to what Four will do with this.
Are there any other ’slots’ open for broadcasters?
There is one timeshared channel set aside for Turner (probably). Some sort of CNN/TCM/Cartoon Network hybrid. Why not a version of Turner’s entertainment channels; WBnetwork, TNT, TBS Superstation etc
Is five entitled to another slot? These days five is the UK arm of european RTL media empire. RTL runs multiple channels in most territories. And is one of the few groups worldwide capable of competing with Sky.
The idea of a Channel6 has been bandered about for quite a while. It always been assumed that SkyOne is/will fill that. Fact is we’re unlikely to see SkyOne on freeview because of its’ nature of being a free service. There has also been talk of sky launching a SkySix specifically for Freeview. I dont see that as likely either or even particularly necessary.
Scottish Media are likely to sell their interests in ITV off. However wouldnt they be interested in having a channel separate from Granada/Carlton. Who knows, maybe they’ll buy ITV2?
Between Flextech, Turner, Disney, SMG and RTL they must be able to inject some colour into Freeview, surely?
There are no independent;
Sports Channel
Movie Channel
kids Channel
In our multichannel world, these are all taken as read to be essential. There are great hopes for Freeview, but how do they expect people to be excited by DTT as it currently stands?
4 BBC Channels and the other ‘traditional’ terrestrial channels?
maybe…
but two identical music channels?
four news channels,
two travel agents,
shopping channel,
not exactly inspiring is it?
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