Discovery Set to Launch Two New HD Channels in January

By Jon Lafayette

Discovery Communications plans to launch two more high definition channels in January.

David Zaslav, CEO of Discovery, said HD was a big part of the company’s future, but he declined to name new channels following remarks at the UBS Global Media & Communications Conference in New York Tuesday.

Discovery this year has launched HD versions of Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet and Science Channel, in addition to its HD Theater service.

Mr. Zaslav said creating the HD channels was a cost but by gaining distribution now, the company was securing “beach front property” from cable operators and satellite providers.

"As more people get HD sets, Discovery will have seven of the 30 to 40 channels people will want to watch on their new equipment," he said. "We look great in HD.”

(Editor: Robbins)