Current state of Japanese HDTV

Recent developments in high definition television (HDTV) in Japan include the launch of 28 inch receivers by Sony in Nov 1993, at a price of 650,000 yen, compared to over 4 million yen in 1989. Consumers are concerned as to whether prices are set to fall further, and what programs are on offer with such sets. NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation) has been carrying out experimental broadcasts for some years. Private broadcasters now realise that HDTV has arrived, and will be important for Japan's satellite broadcasting industry, though production costs are higher than for normal television.