The launch will be carried out in two phases. By the third quarter of this year, HDTV transmissions will be available in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. Phase Two of the national rollout will bring HDTV services to six additional cities (Matamoros, Reynosa, Nuevo Laredo, Ciudad Juarez, Mexicali and Tijuana) through the first half of 2006.

"This is another example of how TV Azteca sets technology standards to benefit viewers throughout Latin America," said Mario San Roman, the CEO of TV Azteca. "This announcement also implies that our first stations will be on the air at least 15 months ahead of the digital upgrade commitments confirmed with Mexican authorities."