As many as 30 Ultra High Definition TV channels could be accommodated for the UK without the need for additional spectrum.
UK regulator Ofcom made the judgment in its Space spectrum strategy document, based on anticipated technology developments.
Ofcom says the demand for higher resolution broadcast content, for some viewers at least, could grow as the price of UHD 4K, and even UKD 8K displays continues to grow.
“Although the rate of growth in demand for UHD services is unclear, we anticipate that it is likely to contribute to growth in demand for satellite capacity for direct-to-home satellite TV,” Ofcom said in its document.
However, with the growth of on demand services, the regulator said it was conceivable that demand for broadcast capacity may fall as viewers turn away from live TV.
It also anticipated capacity would be freed up as broadcasts ceased the simulcast of HD and SD services.