DStv adds 4 HD channels for Olympics

Cape Town – MultiChoice will have 2012 London Olympic Games coverage on four high definition (HD) TV channels from SuperSport on its DStv pay TV platform.

SuperSport's 2012 London Olympic Games coverage plans were revealed in December when the sports broadcaster said its plans include HD coverage. The number of HD channels wasn't revealed at that time.

SuperSport will however have four HD channels showing 2012 London Olympics coverage (besides SD channels and 24-hour coverage) from the end of July.

Each of the channels (but not necessarily all of the HD channels) will broadcast for at least 14 hours per day. The HD channels' content will be simulcast on SD channels.

Asked about the HD channels specifically and which channels will be in HD, SuperSport declined official comment but said plans are still "being worked out".

MultiChoice does not currently run four HD SuperSport channels, which means the amount of HD broadcasting on DStv will increase.

SuperSport is sending a large production crew to London with four news crews which will follow South African and African athletes, with daily news, highlights packages and special shows being produced for the event.

The SABC will use SABC2 to broadcast selected free-to-air Olympic Games coverage in South Africa.