Digital launch gets underway Sept. 7, more channels expected
The launch of between 40 and 60 new digital specialty channels got under way last week. "As with anything new, there are some hurdles to be expected in this launch," says Michael McCabe, president of the Canadian Association of Broadcasters, in a release. "Yes, the new services will be operating in a highly competitive environment. And yes, this is the first time that a completely market-driven approach has governed negotiations for carriage with cable and satellite distributors." On Sept. 7, Rogers Cable began distributing 67 new digital channels – the largest number of any distributor – in the Toronto market (49 in English, three in French and 15 in other languages). The cableco is offering fewer channels, 52 or less, in smaller markets. Bell ExpressVu, announced a new 40-channel lineup (CCR, Aug. 30/01).