Dish Network: 100 Local HD Markets In 2008
The satcaster also plans 100 national HD channels.
By Swanni
The satcaster said it will launch three new satellites this year that will enable it to expand its high-def capacity.
Dish Network CEO Charlie Ergen made the remarks in an analyst call following the release of the company's fourth quarter report.
“I think we expect to be competitive with 100 (HD) channels that anybody else might have and 100 local markets that anybody else might have,” Ergen told the analysts.
Dish Network now has roughly 70 national HD channels and local channels in HD in about 35 markets. Rival DIRECTV now offers 90 HD nationals and local high-def service in almost 80 markets.
In the company's fourth quarter report, Dish acknowledged that satellite launch delays have slowed its subscriber growth. The company needs new satellites to expand its high-def lineup, particularly local service, Ergen said.
Dish yesterday said its fourth quarter net new subscribers were down about 75 percent from the previous year's fourth quarter.
Ergen said the company's first satellite launch will be next month. Once that satellite is operational, Dish will be able to offer local HD service in 10 more markets.
At least two more satellites are scheduled this year, he said.
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