HD channels to be streamed on TalkTalk's YouView platform

TalkTalk is set to begin streaming high-definition (HD) channels later this year via YouView, the subscription-free broadband-connected TV platform.

As one of YouView's shareholders along with the likes of BT, the BBC and ITV, TalkTalk is eager to bring the platform's internet protocol TV offering in line with the HD channels it already airs via digital television, reports Broadcast.

Sky and LOVEFiLM are expected to be the first to roll out content, which is initially likely to be available only on a video-on-demand basis.

In the future, TalkTalk will also begin delivering linear channels in this way from the various YouView content provider partners, which also include the likes of Sony and Disney.

Max Alexander, TalkTalk's director of TV, said he believes HD programming will be live on YouView in time for Christmas.

"HD content will be a big driver of our fibre broadband service, although customers who are on slower DSL connections will also be able to consume it," he explained.

The internet service provider unveiled its YouView product late last month in a ceremony at London's Soho, hosted by TV icon Joanna Lumley.