Kuala Lumpur – Astro launched ASTRO B.yond, a multi-phased innovative service starting with the first ever HD broadcast. ASTRO B.yond offers more innovative services which will be introduced in phases. Along with the first ever HD broadcast in Malaysia, a new and improved Electronic Programming Guide (EPG) designed for better viewer interface will be introduced. In 2010, ASTRO aims to be the first in the world to offer video recording through an external hard drive. With this service, customers can record their favourite programmes and personalize their TV viewing schedules. Astro B.yond will also introduce Digital Video Recording (DVR), Video on Demand (VOD) and IPTV connectivity in phases over the next 24 months. Customers who wish to experience Astro B.yond and access to the HD services have a choice to sign up at an additional service fee of RM20 (US$5.90) per month and a commitment of 12 months. As part of the new B.yond service, customers will get the new B.yond box, new smart card, new outdoor unit dish, HD Multimedia Interface (HDMI) cable and new remote control. New set-up installation fee will be waived in exchange for the existing box. On HD content, ASTRO will show three key genres that are recognized as HD content drivers globally – sports, movies and documentaries. ASTRO will start with four HD channels – Astro Supersport HD, HBO HD, National Geographic Channel HD and HISTORY HD on 18 December 2009, followed by ESPN HD in January 2010. Sports fans can soon watch FIFA World Cup 2010 in HD. ASTRO plans to roll out more HD channels, including local content, in 2010.