SES-Astra will not be involved with subscription management of the new HD+ platform. The service will only be sold on a prepaid basis in retail, with the possibility to extend the viewing window in a number of ways.
When the HD+ platform launches this autumn, satellite receivers with HD+ certification will be in the shops. This could include receivers that have CI Plus capability, but CI Plus is not part of the HD+ specifications.
It is the intention to use Nagravision as the CA system.
These decisions come at the same time as Sky Deutschland is rolling out its new service, with the platform instructing dealers and installers to supply only HD satellite receivers to new customers. It remains to be seen if such sets will be compatible with the HD+ platform.
Usually consumers react with caution when there is no clear single technical standard. On the other hand, the two platforms would face an investigation from the Bundeskartelamt should they dictate a single system on the market.
HD+ will initially offer RTL and Vox, but more broadcasters are expected to come on board. More on the new HD+ platform in Broadband TV News passim.
