David and Elton aren’t the only ones getting hitched today. Sony and Sky have just announced a marriage of sorts to promote HDTV. As you all know Sky intends to launch its HDTV service in early 2006. Now Sony wants a slice of that action by pushing HDTV, and hopefully flogging a few of its top end flat screen Bravia sets.
Apparently there's a joint advertising campaign on the cards and consumers will be offered deals where they can save money if they buy a Sky HDTV box and a Sony Bravia set at the same time. Both James Murdoch from Sky and Sir Howard Stringer from Sony gave fairly bland quotes to announce the launch. The Stringer piece is after the turn.
"The full potential of High Definition will now be realised. Until today we have laboured under a Catch 22. If the industry didn't produce and broadcast in HD, the consumer would be reluctant to purchase HD televisions or equipment. This agreement between Sony and Sky, two of the leading players in the market, will drive the adoption of High Definition in the UK, and create a brilliant and compelling new entertainment experience for the consumer."
From: Sony to double BRAVIA LCD TV production for growing European demand