The distinction is vast. To actually offer 200 HD channels, DIRECTV would have to add a lot more high-def networks, which would require it to pay more fees to the programmers. And in this economy, that's something the satcaster -- and other TV providers -- are increasingly loathe to do.

So to keep viewers coming their way -- and keep current viewers from jumping ship -- DIRECTV is trying to create the perception that it will offer 200 HD channels next year.

But DIRECTV has never said how many HD channels it will provide in the future. It has only said it now offers 130 HD channels, which itself is a big lie; the count includes a bunch of PPV channels and other sleight of hand tricks.

My guess is that DIRECTV will continue saying it will have the capacity for 200 HD channels until late spring/early summer of 2010 when two things happen:

1. The new satellite will become operational.
2. The new NFL Sunday Ticket subscription plans are announced.

When the new satellite becomes operational, DIRECTV will add probably less than 10 new HD channels (not counting more PPV channels.), leaving it far short of the 200 HD channel mark. However, it will count on the NFL Sunday Ticket to keep disappointed HD viewers on board for the next six months and beyond.

Cynical, you say? Manipulative even? Yes to both. But under current management, DIRECTV has become a cold, cynical company.

If DIRECTV truly planned to offer 200 HD channels next year, it would say so now. It wouldn't say it will have the 'capacity' to do so.

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Phillip Swann is president and publisher of TVPredictions.com. He has been quoted in dozens of publications and broadcast outlets, including CNN, Fox News, Inside Edition, The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Chicago Tribune, The Financial Times, The Associated Press and The Hollywood Reporter. He can be reached at swann@tvpredictions.com or at 703-505-3064.

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