More than 130 new channels are expected to launch on YouView within the next 12 months according to trade body digitaluk.
News of the channels is contained in a document setting out proposed amendments to the numbering of channels on Digital Terrestrial Television (YouView and Freeview).
The document states: “YouView (the IP television provider that had led demand for this LCN range) has now told us that it has had applications for more than 130 IP channels which it expects to launch within the next year.”
It adds: “YouView’s consultation response explained that its own consultation and UI policy set out its intention to use the LCN 400 to LCN 599 range, suggesting that the launch of IP services over the summer will require the full number range.”
YouView combines free to air DTT channels with additional channels available over broadband. The first such channels, known as IPTV channels, were BT’s new sports channels and additional entertainment channels which went live last week.
The new channels, and those to be offered by rival ISP TalkTalk in the coming months, are restricted to homes connected to upgraded telephone exchanges supporting an internet protocol known as multicast.
A side effect of this is to limit channels only to customers of a specific ISP.
However YouView has already announced plans to support unicast channels which would allow non-ISP specific to be added. Last year CEO Richard Halton said the platform had been working with the National Theatre on such a channel.
Support for unicast streaming will also allow the BBC to add its new Connected Red Button service to YouView.
It could also allow Sky to bring its movie, sports and entertainment channels to the platform via its NOW TV service which already offers on-demand movies to YouView customers.