SkyCable Corporation, the Philippines' largest cable TV provider, launched their much-awaited High Definition service today.
Known simply as "SkyCable HD," the new service will treat subscribers to two HD channels: Discovery HD and History HD.
According to Malou Esparrago, SkyCable's head for postpaid marketing, existing subscribers can avail themselves of SkyCable HD through an additional P499 monthly fee on top of their existing plans. A one-time installation fee of P5,000 for the new HD box is also required.
Subscribers who already purchased the Digibox may swap in and pay for the difference to upgrade to an HD Box.
The new system is capable of streaming 1080i video and 5.1-channel Dolby Digital (AC-3) audio.
Plans are in the works for additional channels, including a possible pay-per-view feed of sports events.
Only minor upgrades were made on Sky's existing infrastructure to be able to transmit HD signals since 90% of its Metro Manila coverage is already in digital format.