Survey Explores and Defines the HD Content Needs
Within the Television Landscape
New York, NY, April 10, 2006 – With more than 20 million HDTV television sets sold in 2005 and industry experts predicting that over 60% of U.S. TV households will own an HDTV set by 2010, Rainbow Media Holdings, released today the results of an expansive broad based research survey exploring HD viewing habits and defining the growing HD content needs within the marketplace. Conducted by E-Poll, the study measured 2,040 respondents over the age of 18, who specifically subscribe to either cable or satellite television services.
Last August, Rainbow Media Holdings launched VOOM HD Networks as a stand alone HD content provider for cable and satellite distributors. Since its launch, the service has grown from ten core HD channels to fifteen. Last month, VOOM announced the launch of Gameplay HD, a channel solely dedicated to world of video gaming. VOOM HD Networks' suite of HD channels range from movies, sports and animation to fashion, martial arts and music. Since its launch, VOOM has gone on to produce compelling original HD content for a wide variety of consumer interests including the world's largest collection of HD horror films; a one-of-a-kind live memorabilia auction; animation for kids of all ages and live action-adventure sporting events. Currently the service is available on Echostar's Dish Network as part of their new DishHD package.
The results of today's study document the strong consumer interest in HD content, a general lack of choice for HD content within the marketplace and definitive specifics on what consumers would like to see in HD. Among the key results, it was concluded that nearly half of all current cable subscribers who own a HDTV would switch services to receive the VOOM suite of HD channels, while 87% of those who own HDTVs and define themselves as "satisfied" with their current HD service would still want to add VOOM to their HD package.
"This is one of the first surveys that explores and defines people's attitudes and desires for HD content and the data reinforces that the HD content provided by VOOM HD Networks is unique, valuable, and highly desired by both cable and satellite consumers." stated Rainbow Media's Senior Vice President for Research Charlene Weisler. "With the HD marketplace growing at such a fast pace there is an unparalleled demand for HD content and it is important that programmers and providers adapt to these changing HD needs."
In addition to showing a void in the marketplace for compelling HD content, the study also defined purchasing trends for HD televisions. Results include:
- Over 20% of cable subscribers intend to purchase HDTV's within the next year
- Over 50% of HDTV owners currently subscribe to cable or satellite services that provided HD channels
- Less than 30% of HDTV owners are currently "very satisfied" with their current HD Channel line-up
- Movies and Sports are the most desirable genres for HD programming across all major demo groups
- Over 60% of HDTV owners not currently subscribing to HD channels, expressed interest when speciific VOOM features were mentioned
- Parents between the ages of 25-44 with a high income are more likely to be current owners of HDTV
About VOOM HD Networks
VOOM HD Networks is the largest suite of high definition channels available anywhere, produced exclusively in high definition for distribution in the U.S. through satellite and cable operators. The VOOM HD Networks carry programming in categories as diverse as sports, movies, fashion, music and art. Today, the VOOM HD Networks are available nationally on Echostar's DISH Network. The VOOM HD Networks were developed by Rainbow Media to meet the growing demand for quality high definition programming, building on Rainbow Media's history of original programming innovation.
About Rainbow Media Holdings LLC
A leader in the entertainment industry, Rainbow Media Holdings LLC is a subsidiary of Cablevision Systems Corporation. Rainbow creates and manages some of the country's most compelling and dynamic programming with linear networks including national networks – AMC, fuse, IFC (The Independent Film Channel) and WE: Women's Entertainment; its regional programming service – Rainbow Sports Networks; on-demand networks including Mag Rack and sportskool; and the largest suite of high definition channels available anywhere – the VOOM HD Networks. Rainbow's other businesses include its film distribution, production and exhibition division – IFC Entertainment; in addition to its advertising sales division – Rainbow Advertising Sales Corporation – and its full service network programming origination and distribution company – Rainbow Network Communications.