MultiChoice will have 2012 London Olympic Games coverage on 4 high definition (HD) TV channels from SuperSport on DStv with the coverage simulcast on standard definition (SD) channels, meaning that DStv will be adding additional HD capacity on its platform from the end of July.
I broke the news in December that SuperSport clinched the pay TV broadcasting rights for South Africa and Africa for the 2012 Olympic Games and that HD coverage will be included, but until now the number of HD channels wasn't revealed yet.
I was told and confirmed that there will be 4 HD channels showing 2012 London Olympics coverage (besides standard definition 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; some will run 24 hours. The HD channels' content will be simulcast on SD channels.
Asked about the HD channels specifically and which channels will specifically be in HD, SuperSport declined official comment but said plans are still "being worked out".
MultiChoice doesn't currently run 4 HD SuperSport channels, which means the amount of HD broadcasting on DStv will increase from the end of July.
SuperSport is sending a large production crew to London with four news crews which will follow South African and African athletes, with daily news and highlights packages as well as special shows which will be produced.
The SABC will use SABC2 to broadcast free-to-air Olympic Games coverage in South Africa.
