Photo: Eutelsat

[Via Satellite 02-17-2016] Eutelsat Communications has reached a new record number of channels, having crossed the threshold of 6,000 channels broadcasting from its fleet. The company attributes this new level to strong channel growth in fast growing markets, the continued deployment of pay-TV platforms, and a diversified offer of Free-to-Air (FTA) channels.

Eutelsat is distributing video content for a total of 50 platforms, with Africa showing the most pronounced regional dynamic as the continent accelerates the transition from analog to digital TV. Over the last 12 months, six platforms have launched or expanded their activities at Eutelsat’s African video neighborhoods at 7 degrees east, 16 degrees east and 36 degrees east.

Eutelsat is broadcasting more than 2,200 channels FTA. The Middle East and Africa is one of Eutelsat’s fastest-growing regions. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the company transmits half of the 1,136 satellite channels broadcast today.

High Definition (HD) channels now account for more than 12 percent of Eutelsat’s total channel count and continues to rise, especially in Europe and the Middle East. Eutelsat is also transmitting its first commercial Ultra-HD channels in Russia and Europe. The operator recently launched a new satellite, Eutelsat 9B aboard a Proton rocket Jan. 30, and has two new satellites, Eutelsat 117 West B and Eutelsat 65 West A slated to launch for additional capacity.