ION Media Networks, the nation’s largest broadcast television station group, will launch ION Television HD, a hi-def version of the company’s flagship network, ION Television, in the first quarter of 2008.
The West Palm Beach, Fla.-based company, formerly Pax TV, will transmit in 720p and feature native and upconverted HD programming that will be delivered on all 60 ION Media Network stations. Programming consists primarily of popular family shows like “Mama’s Family” and “Who’s the Boss,” along with sports and reality programs, as well as movies and original miniseries.
“Launching ION HD is the next step in our multi-platform digital strategy,” said Brandon Burgess, CEO of ION Media Networks. “The transformation of our network to digital from analog, and the conversion of ION Television to HD, will allow us to deliver to our distribution partners and television audience HD-quality content and additional special-interest digital networks, and uniquely positions us for new distribution models and platforms.”
ION Media Network TV stations reach more than 94 million TV households, according to the company.
