American DBS service Dish Network will become the first in the industry to offer high-definition programming in 1080p, the highest and best HD resolution available. The company's latest expansion includes the introduction of TurboHD, the industry's first 100%, all-HD suite of programming packages. Dish is launching 17 new national HD channels on August 1, surpassing its goal of offering 100 national HD channels five months ahead of schedule. With these additions, the company now offers up to 114 national HD channels and plans to raise that number to 150 by the end of the year.
Charlie Ergen, CEO and president of Dish Network, explains, " 'we know that once consumers start watching their favorite TV shows in high-definition, their viewing habits change and their preference switches to all-HD programming.' "
Source: Cartt, 07/31/2008