Put simply, High Definition shows everything in much more detail than Standard Definition. More technically, the number of lines and the number of pixels on the screen is greatly increased, meaning a much crisper, sharper image that allows greater detail to be shown. Colours are especially affected, appearing to be much brighter and clearer. Therefore, it's the perfect way to watch nature documentaries, movies and sports, as everything on screen comes to life.
Sky offers more High Definition channels than any other provider in the market. There are currently more than 50 Sky+HD channels on offer for those who sign up to the service, although the channels you have access to will largely depend on which TV Pack you have, however, the following channels are available in HD:
Sports
As well as live football (including the Premier League), major rugby matches and golf tournaments, a number of other sports and one-off events are also covered. If you already have any sports channels as part of a package, then they’ll be upgraded to HD automatically when you take out an HD subscription. Later in 2012, a dedicated F1 channel will become available to HD subscribers
Movies
12 movie channels are available in HD, giving everyone the chance to see the films they love with improved picture quality. Whether you want to view the blockbuster in the Showcase HD channel, or re-watch old favourites with the benefit of greater detail and much more vivid colour, there is a channel there for you. For existing customers, taking an HD subscription automatically upgrades your existing package movie channels to the equivalent HD channel.
Documentaries
Firm favourites like History, Eden and National Geographic channels are available, and the improved picture quality with enhanced picture detail really brings these programmes to life.
Entertainment
Entertainment
High Definition isn’t just limited to big budget films or sporting events. Some broadcasters, like the BBC, ITV and Channel 4, provide HD broadcasts of their own programmes. Sky 1, Sky Atlantic, Sky Living and Sky Arts are also available in HD, giving you access to the latest comedy and drama. Viewers can also receive favourites like Comedy Central, Disney, and Nickelodeon. As usual, any entertainment channels already included in a package will be upgraded to HD when an HD subscription is taken.
To view a High Definition channel, the TV needs to be able to display it correctly. Televisions capable of this level of display will have a sticker on them saying ‘HD Ready'. Most manufacturers now offer a range of HD ready televisions.
