BBC One HD to launch in autumn

The BBC has confirmed plans to launch a high definition version of BBC One in the autumn.

BBC One HD will offer a HD simulcast of the channel, including HD versions of EastEnders, Holby City and The One Show.

The channel's autumn schedule in HD will also include Strictly Come Dancing, Human Planet and Waterloo Road.

BBC One HD will be made available on Freesat, Freeview, Sky and Virgin Media.

The channel will operate in addition to the BBC HD channel, which will also extend its regular broadcast hours over the "coming months" from nine to 12 hours a day.

"BBC HD has established itself as the most popular HD service, and these changes are important next steps in improving that service still further, providing an opportunity to showcase the wide variety of BBC programmes in the highest possible quality," said BBC Vision director Jana Bennett.

"We recognise that audiences have already been enjoying many of their favourite programmes in HD, and I'm delighted that we can now broaden their choice."

BBC HD head Danielle Nagler added: "HD is the future of television - people who have HD have clearly told us that they want more of their licence fee-funded content in HD.

"I'm delighted that the HD simulcast of BBC One will become available on satellite, on cable, and now also on Freeview's new HD service. This is a key moment for us on the journey to HD becoming the norm for all our programmes and channels."