broadband news

Channel 5 Launches Broadband TV Service

Following the lead of BBCi Player, 4oD and ITV's online catch-up, Channel Five has joined in with its own broadband TV service, called Demand Five, which offers a range of free and paid-for programmes. It is rumoured to be of a better quality and offer more features than its broadband competitors, including a High Definition option. Programmes available include many of its staple shows for viewers to 'catch-up' with, as well as a number of top US shows, often at a fee of between 99p and £1.99. Users are able to either stream the shows online, directly through their broadband connection, or download them to watch later.

One of the key differences between Demand Five and the other three broadband TV services is the ability for users to 'interact' with the service, rating and reviewing programmes as they watch them. This addition to the broadband TV world comes as conventional TV broadcasters are coming under increasing pressure to retain viewers, with more and more people turning to broadband as their main source of entertainment. Although many people use broadband viewing for its convenience, the quality of the broadband picture is not yet at the same level as on TV. With High Definition coming with Demand Five and BT laying plans for a super-fast fibre optic broadband network, however, it may not be long before the broadband TV quality starts matching up.

31/07/2008
Author: CompareBroadbandUK staff writer

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