BSkyB is to open its new HD/3D launch queue to new applications at 10.00 tomorrow (March 30). For several months the only way for a broadcaster to open a new channel on the Sky EPG has been to buy out the position held by another broadcaster.
Under the new rules channels that have already secured their broadcast licence – most probably from the UK regulator Ofcom – will be able to apply for a position in the queue. The new rules apply only to HD or 3D channels, standard definition channels will still need to seek out an existing channel that is willing to have its place on the guide bought out.
Full details of the new HD/3D launch queue are given in the new edition of the Method for Allocating Listings in Sky’s EPG, published earlier this month, and outlining the amount of content such channels will be required to broadcast to gain a valuable EPG slot.
