Three-quarters of Asian pay-TV operators polled in a new study said they expected to have high-definition offerings up and running by the end of 2008.

The study, conducted by Euroconsult for Measat Satellite Systems, showed operators as generally bullish on HDTV, with a majority expecting it to increase ARPU or profits on its own. However, it is newer platforms thatr are looking to differentiate their offerings from existing platforms that are spearheading the HDTV roll-out, with more established platforms taking a slower approach.

As usual, it is lack of HD content that was viewed consistently as the most important roadblock for developing the high definition sector in the region.

Pacome Revillon, Managing Director of Euroconsult, said: “The study provides clear evidence of faster development of HD offerings in Asia than previously expected. Opportunity for growth and increasing competitive pressure are the primary factors driving pay-TV broadcasters to develop an HD offer.”

Euroconsult interviewed 25 operators across 15 markets collectively serving 24 million subs.

Source: Rapid TV News