According to research from Informa Telecoms & Media, nearly 44 million households around the world will actively watch high-definition TV programming by the end of 2008, representing 4% of global homes. By 2012, this number will rise to 179 million homes, accounting for 16% of homes worldwide.
In North America, Informa predicts that 31% of digital TV homes will be active HDTV viewers by the end of the year. By 2012, this number will grow to 71%.
In its report, Informa writes, " 'set and set-top box prices have fallen substantially in the last two years. National free-to-air (FTA) broadcasters are launching HD services, which will further stimulate take-up. Digital platforms now use HD channel provision as a differentiator against their competitors. Major sports events such as the Olympics and Euro 2008 have spurred FTA broadcasters to provide more HD programming.' "
For HDTV penetration numbers in Canada, click here. Source: Cartt, 04/25/2008