SALT LAKE CITY -- U.S. Digital Television, LLC (USDTV LLC), today announced it will be the first broadcast television service provider in the U.S. to convert its entire network to MPEG-4 AVC, an advanced video compression technology.

MPEG-4 AVC technology enables USDTV to more efficiently utilize the digital spectrum leased from its broadcast partners, creating increased revenue opportunities through expanded content and service offerings. The company is developing low-cost themed content packages that customers can subscribe to, in addition to the basic USDTV service. MPEG-4 AVC is a significant step forward for USDTV in strengthening the broadcaster's digital platform in the home.

USDTV will demonstrate the first live MPEG-4 AVC broadcasts over its digital terrestrial network at the upcoming National Association of Broadcasters Convention in Las Vegas, at the ATSC DTV Hot Spot in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

USDTV has designed a small MPEG-4 conversion device that upgrades its existing MPEG -2 set-top boxes. The company will convert its entire network to MPEG-4 AVC and begin offering customers additional content choices this summer.

"Capitalizing on new technology developments that enhance the consumer experience and grow our revenues is a core element of the business plan," said Steve Lindsley, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of USDTV. "We have always believed that technology advances would work in our favor, and deploying advanced video compression is just the beginning."

U.S. Digital Television LLC (USDTV)