BERN, Switzerland -- Swisscom Broadcast is launching Premium Digital TV, which will be delivered to TV consumers via the local cable network operators (CNOs). With digital TV, viewers will benefit from an array of new channels and a personal choice of programmes. The cable network operators will continue to operate freely and, hence, independently in the market. Swisscom Broadcast Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Swisscom Group.

Digital TV can be broadcast and received in the same way as the existing analogue TV, via cable, satellite or terrestrial stations. The medium of cable (Digital Video Broadcasting-Cable, DVB-C for short) is of major importance to Swisscom Broadcast, since it is the way 85% of Swiss households currently receive their TV programmes. The Swiss DVB-C market has a potential of around three million households, including around two million in the German-speaking area of Switzerland alone.

Cable network operators remain independent

The business model that has been chosen enables the cable network companies to retain their independence in programme design and relationships with end customers. "This aspect was particularly important to Swisscom Broadcast," explains CEO Giovanni Conti, "Because our business customers set great store by their independence, and at the same time Swisscom Broadcast is primarily an infrastructure provider for its business customers. This business model offers advantages to all concerned."

Swisscom AG