The availability of HDTV programming varies significantly from country to country.

In the United States, all the major networks are delivering the majority of prime time shows in both analog and high definition formats.  There are over 40 networks that now broadcast in high definition.  They include HBO, Showtime, ESPN and the Discovery Channel.

In Canada, both the CBC and CTV networks are doing some HDTV broadcasting in the major cities.  There are also a number of cable networks broadcasting in high definition.

Japan remains the leader in HDTV broadcasting.  HDTV is also occurring in Australia and South Korea. 

In Europe, however, High Definition broadcasting is at its infancy.  HDTV satellite broadcasts are now becoming available. Market research suggests that more than 4.5 million households in Europe will switch on to HDTV by 2008.  The BBC plans to provide all its content in high definition by 2010.