2006 news releases

SaskTel First in North America to Deploy HDTV over IP

SaskTel First in North America to Deploy HDTV over IP

October 16, 2006

SaskTel today announced it will be the first provider in North America to commercially deploy High Definition TV (HDTV) as part of an IPTV offering with the introduction of 27 Max HD channels, one of the largest HDTV line-ups in Canada. Max HD will deliver amazing picture quality in wide-screen format on any HD capable television set.

“With crystal clear resolution and theatre quality sound, Max HD customers will experience the latest in home entertainment,” SaskTel President and CEO Robert Watson said. “We are extremely proud of our world-class infrastructure and our Next Generation Access Infrastructure (NGAI) program that enables HDTV is SaskTel’s largest single capital project ever undertaken.”

Beginning October 16, 2006, new customers can sign up for Max service and receive Max HD Ultimate for $59.00 per month for four months.   Max HD Ultimate includes 27 Max HD channels, 13 regular theme packages, Movie Central, HD Adventure, access to Max Front Row, 35 Saskatchewan AM/FM Radio Stations, 45 Galaxie Music Stations and High Speed Internet service.

SaskTel is pleased to acknowledge the following technical suppliers – Alcatel, 2Wire Inc., Widevine Technologies, Tandberg Television, Motorola and Kasenna Inc. – in the delivery of Max HD Service.

About SaskTel
SaskTel is the leading full service communications provider in the province offering competitive voice, data, internet, entertainment and multimedia services, web hosting, text and messaging services over a state-of-the-art digital network.  The Corporation also provides cellular and wireless data services, security monitoring services, directory services, in-room communications services to the healthcare sector through Hospitality Network, telecommunications consulting service through SaskTel International and an out-of-province sales and service channel in Alberta and British Columbia.  SaskTel and its wholly-owned subsidiaries have a workforce of approximately 4,000 permanent full-time employees.  Visit SaskTel at www.sasktel.com.

For media inquiries only, please contact:

Michelle Englot , SaskTel Corporate Affairs
Phone: (306) 777-4476
E-mail: michelle.englot@sasktel.sk.ca