HDTV Service Now In 10 Million Homes

Research firm In-Stat says that 10 million homes around the world are watching HDTV content at home and expects that number to raise to 15.5 million by the end of 2005.

The rate of growth of HDTV households will continue to be strong over the next several years, and by 2009, HDTV households worldwide are forecasted to reach 52 million, according to the high-tech market research firm.

“Even with the rise in the number of HDTV households, there are still several market challenges slowing the spread of HDTV service,” said Mike Paxton, In-Stat analyst. “Foremost among these challenges are: the need for more HDTV content, continuing the education of the public about the benefits of HDTV, and widening the geographic availability of HDTV services, especially in Europe.”

A recent report by In-Stat also found the following:

— HDTV services are widely available in only five countries: Australia, Canada, Japan, the United States and South Korea.

— There are currently 4 million HDTV households in the United States, up from 1.6 million in March 2004.

— 45% of the worldwide HDTV households get their service from a satellite TV service provider. Terrestrial broadcasters and cable TV operators provide high-def service to the remaining HDTV households.

— A survey of U.S. consumers showed that an amazing 76% of the respondents had watched HDTV programming on an HDTV set, although many of the respondents noted that they had simply seen a demonstration of HDTV in a retail store.

Source: http://www.in-stat.com