The three RTL Nederland channels are to start transmitting all programming and commercials on their three channels RTL4, RTL5 and RTL7 in 16:9 widescreen from June 1. According to RTL more than 50% of all Dutch households now have widescreen TV sets.
SBS Broadcasting is believed to be following suit, as the main commercial broadcasters have decided to launch at the same time, mainly to accommodate advertisers. However, John de Mol’s Tien already started full 16:9 broadcasts on March 1.
Public broadcasters have as yet not decided on a date when all channels will go widescreen. Last year there was much controversy over their decision to broadcast the football games of the World Cup in regular 4:3 format.