Showtime, a leading pay-TV network, in association with eVision, pay TV division of telecom firm Etisalat, has launched Showtime HD, a new premium channel dedicated to serials, movies and sports in high definition (HD) television.

Launched today (July 7), on the eVision network, Showtime HD offers subscribers a first-class line up with greater detail, more vibrant color and superb quality sound, said a statement.

“Our commitment to HD reinforces our reputation for innovation within the region and delivering our customers a compelling new experience,” said Marc-Antoine d'Halluin, president and CEO, Showtime Arabia.

“The move to embrace HD responds to increasing demand from viewers’ for high-quality programming with the intensity and quality of HD.”

HD also arrives with some impressive special effects, thanks to movie titles such as Iron Man, Casino Royale, Wall-E, Into the Wild, Mamma Mia and Cloverfield.

Showtime’s hottest series will also receive a facelift, with the likes of Lost, Heroes, Prison Break and 24 getting the HD makeover. In addition, the Showtime HD channel will broadcast three live matches each week from the English Premier League in HD.

D'Halluin added: “Embracing HD, the biggest revolution in TV picture quality in decades marks another landmark for Showtime, following the launches of Showbox and Show On Demand.

“Whether you are a fan of blockbuster movies, English Premier League football or the latest US series, you can enjoy more of the things you love in stunning high definition on Showtime.”

The channel is available to eVision subscribers on cable as part of the new Showtime Premier +HD package. Showtime HD services will be available to a broader subscriber base later in 2009. – TradeArabia News Service