Verizon (News - Alert) will make its Big Ten Network available in both standard definition and high definition (HD). Big Ten Network will launch during the next few months, region by region, in all additional areas where FiOS (News - Alert) TV is available. The network has already joined Verizon's most widely available level of service in Ft. Wayne, Indiana.

 

The company claims that fans of the network can connect with their universities as never before as FiOS continues to roll out across the country. With this network launch, both Big Ten Network and Verizon can look to attract more customers.

 

Verizon has signed up more than 1.2 million customers since launching FiOS TV in September 2005. These customers enjoy the nation's largest collection of video-on-demand content, a robust interactive media guide, hundreds of digital video and music channels, high-definition linear and on-demand programming, and other advanced features. Verizon's FiOS TV s delivered over the nation's most advanced fiber-optic network straight to customers' homes and businesses, and is currently available to more than 6.5 million homes in 13 states.

 

In areas where Verizon is already offering video services, Big Ten Network is one of several new channels being added by the company. FiOS TV is also available in parts of Pennsylvania, home to Penn State University, as well as other key states like New York, California, Texas and Florida, where there are many Big Ten alumni. Other FiOS TV states rolling out the network are New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, Oregon, Delaware, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

 

Terry Denson, vice president, FiOS TV content and programming, said, “High-definition content - especially sports - is among the most attractive offering for current and potential FiOS TV subscribers. Verizon has placed a high priority on providing the best in both sports and high-definition content to our FiOS TV subscribers. Big Ten Network is an exciting addition to our channel lineup, giving customers a front seat to their favorite college football games. This is just one more illustration of our commitment to providing the very best channel offerings.”