FCC allows new HDTV services stateside

Telcos have been itching to get into the HDTV market. Past regulations have hindered their launch into the new services, but that may all be about to change.

The FCC has just approved new regulations that will make it easier for telcos to launch new TV services. One of the aspects of the new regulations is that it will impose restrictions on local governments to delay franchise agreements for the telcos. Not only will this mark a victory for telcos like AT&T and Verizon, but it should be a great triumph for HDTV programming starved consumers.

As the telcos venture into the TV market, existing cable and satellite providers will have to kick up their game in order to hold on to their market shares. This is likely to mean the acceleration of cable and satellite providers to add HD channels to their line ups as well as other related services.

AT&T is currently offering 27 HDTV channels in the two markets that it has launched so far. Only EchoStar offers more HD programming. The approval of the controversial regulations should open up new markets to AT&T, pushing cable operators in those markets to expand their HD lineups and improve existing services.

The new regulations will force local governments to act within 90 days on new applications for local “rights-of-way” and other access needed to install the telcos TV service. Local governments have been known to delay action – partially due to pressure from the cable operators.