Swisscom is adding more TV channels to the basic Bluewin TV package, including the English-language BBC Prime. Bluewin TV's basic package already covers a wide range of English-language channels which are no longer broadcast in analog format by some cable TV operators. To date, more than 40,000 customers have signed up for Bluewin TV.
Bluewin TV offers television over the telephone line. Launched by Swisscom in early November 2006, the service now offers more than 120 TV channels and more than 80 radio stations, over 500 top films (video on demand), live sport and up to 30 Teleclub channels. All that's needed is a telephone connection and broadband Internet access from Swisscom. Bluewin TV works without a cable network connection.
Basic range of English-language channels to be expanded.
While some cable TV providers are reducing their selection of analog channels even further, Bluewin TV's basic package now covers a wide range of channels, including Canale 5 for Italian-speaking Switzerland and France2 and TF1 for French-speaking regions. Swisscom Bluewin TV's basic range of German-language channels also includes WDR and N-TV: two channels that some cable TV network providers no longer offer in analog format.
Starting on 27 April, 2007, Bluewin TV will include the following additional channels in its basic offering:
- BBC Prime:
24-hour British entertainment with prize-winning comedies and dramas, and informative, high-quality documentaries. Plus music, lifestyle magazines, children's and family programmes.
- ESPN Classic:
A 100% "sportainment" channel. 24-hour reports and documentaries on the biggest games, competitions and most thrilling moments in sports history:
Available in English free of charge with the Bluewin TV "Deutsch" language package, with German time slots from 8:00-10:00, 14:00-16:00 and 20:00-22:00. Broadcast in 2-channel English/German.
Available in French free of charge with the Bluewin TV "Français+" package.
Available in Italian free of charge with the Bluewin TV "Italiano+" package.