There is a clear shift underway as traditional SD channels wind down, making room for a broader modernization of television delivery. Plans for switching to higher definition were set in motion for 2023, with a target date tied to mid-February. The modernization effort unfolds in two major phases: freeing bandwidth in the system and enhancing other services that benefit from more capacity, such as ultra-high definition options and next-gen mobile networks. This transition reflects a broader industry move to deliver crisper pictures and more reliable streams across platforms in North America and beyond.
On one side, the positive consequence is the retirement of numerous legacy channels that have occupied bandwidth without delivering current video quality. By consolidating these services, providers can reclaim spectrum and optimize the network to support higher resolutions and faster data rates. In practical terms, this means more space for innovations like 4K streaming and 5G-enabled features, improving the experience for viewers who access television through set‑top boxes, smart TVs, or mobile devices.
Combining high definition
As the upgrade progresses, a growing number of households are acquiring televisions or decoders capable of receiving HD broadcasts. Regardless of the exact definition a household chooses, one outcome remains certain: channels are ceasing to air lower‑quality feeds and will begin broadcasting primarily in HD. For many viewers, this shift translates into noticeably sharper images, smoother motion, and a more immersive viewing experience, even when content is older or originally produced in standard definition.
-
one
-
2
-
24 Hour Channel
-
telesport
-
Clan
-
Four
-
telecinco
-
FDF*
-
Energy*
-
Theology*
-
boing*
*Some channels did not have an HD version yet, but are slated to broadcast exclusively in HD starting February 14.
-
Sixth
-
antenna 3
-
Neox*
-
Not going*
-
Mega*
*A number of these channels previously did not offer HD but are scheduled to switch to HD broadcasting starting February 14.
In regional highlights, the rollout began in late January with some content already available in HD. The core plan calls for full HD transmission across the lineup by early February, followed by expanded HD coverage in the weeks that follow. Viewers will notice the change as more channels migrate to HD during the same period, improving clarity and color accuracy across the board. The goal is to deliver consistent HD across all major channels and ensure that new HD-capable devices can tune in with minimal setup. This transition aligns with market expectations in Canada, the United States, and neighboring territories as consumers increasingly demand higher visual fidelity and reliable, fast streaming capabilities. For households upgrading equipment, this shift often means checking compatibility with HD-capable tuners or digital antennas and ensuring service plans support higher video quality. When HD is available, the improvement is not just in resolution but also in color depth, motion handling, and overall presentation, making it easier to enjoy live sports, nature documentaries, and serialized programming in its intended brilliance. For analysts and industry observers, the move signals continued investment in infrastructure, a willingness to retire older distribution methods, and a focus on delivering premium experiences without sacrificing reliability, even during peak viewing hours. The broader narrative remains clear: modernization of broadcast delivery is advancing, with HD as the centerpiece of a broader strategy that includes smarter compression, better error correction, and more flexible viewing options across devices.
As the transition unfolds, consumers are advised to verify channel lineups, confirm HD availability, and review any equipment changes required to receive HD signals. Industry sources note that while some channels will go HD progressively, the overall timetable aims to minimize disruption and maximize viewer satisfaction through a smooth, staged rollout attributed to the ongoing upgrade cycle.