High-definition TV will be made free to 15m homes in challenge to Sky

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In a major challenge to Sky's grip on the new technology, four new channels are to be launched for the 15million homes with Freeview.

Families will be able to watch a range of programmes offering the vivid and crisp pictures HDTV offers, without paying a subscription charge.

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Upgrade: Viewers will be able to access new channels and services on free-to-air

It means millions of viewers will be able to enjoy the 2012 Olympics in HDTV.

The BBC will be given one of the four new channels, with commercial public service channels such as ITV and Channel 4 bidding for the other three.

At the moment, viewers can only get HD television by taking the service from Sky or cable operator Virgin Media.

While these two services allow you to watch two channels, one from BBC and another from C4 for free, all the rest have to be paid for.

You also have to pay for the special HD set-top box which provides the channels.

The downside is that most will have to upgrade their Freeview boxes to receive the service and will need an HD-ready television.

To watch HDTV, viewers need both an HD-ready set and a compatible box to go with it.

Freeview is built in to many new TVs, most of which are also now set up for HD programming.

The move comes as a result of new technology overseen by media regulator Ofcom.

The introduction of the new channels will be staggered until 2012 to tie in with digital switchover.

Ofcom chief executive Ed Richards said: "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to upgrade digital terrestrial television.

"Viewers-will have access to new channels and services on free-to-air."

The first three channels will be available from 2009, to coincide with digital switchover happening in North West England.

There should be a further HD channel on Freeview by 2012, when digital switchover is completed.

HD gives much more detail than ordinary standard-definition TV. But until Freeview's service launches, viewers need a satellite dish or cable connection to watch it.

It is unclear at the moment if people will be able to alter existing boxes for the new service, or whether they will have to pay about £30 for a new one.

Some HD programmes are made with cinema-style "surround sound". Broadcasts in this format are particularly suited to flat-screen TVs.

People have to make sure when buying a set that it is marked HD-ready.

Most of Sky or Virgin Media's HD services come with an extra charge. Programmes have to be specially made in HD, and broadcast in HD as well.

The BBC's channel on the Freeview service will be the same as its current one being offered on Sky and Virgin.

This shows the best of its content, with programmes such as Cranford, Bleak House, Torchwood and Holby Blue.

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