TeliaSonera is to launch a new cable TV service in the Helsinki area, directly competing with the established network operated by Welho.
Branded Sonera Cable TV, the new service will be based on the company’s own fibre-optic network, and will be immediately available to several thousand new customers. The complete offering consists of around 120 channels, including 13 in the high definition format. For housing companies taking the Sonera service the basic package comes without cost and comprises 18 channels, including one in HD, while the largest package of 48 channels costs €24.90.
Sonera says it is looking to take a 10% market share in the Greater Helsinki area in the immediate term. It has already signed the Foundation for Student Housing in the Helsinki Region (Hoas) where 16,000 residents will receive their signals from Sonera by the end if February 2010.
As the fourth largest cablenet in Finland, Sonera currently offers services in around 70 towns across the country.