Hungry for Viewers, Verizon Expands HD Lineup

Verizon (VZ Quote) plans to beef up its video offering with more high-definition programming.

Just three days after reporting lackluster video subscriber growth in its costly fiber optic TV effort, the New York phone giant says it "will begin expanding its HD lineup."

Starting in spring in certain unnamed markets, Verizon says it plans to double the number of HD channels to 60 with the goal of having more than 150 HD channels available by the end of 2008.

Some industry observers have been critical of Verizon's video effort calling it a me-too product that does little to set itself apart from its cable and satellite rivals. Lately, with outfits like DirecTV (DTV Quote) offering 80 HD channels, Verizon's scant offering didn't seem to be compelling enough for proud new owners of high-end home theatres. ...