BSkyB to phase out SD set top boxes

The satellite broadcaster BSkyB is set to stop selling the standard definition set top box and instead will be providing all new customers with the latest high definition set top box as standard, even if the customers does not subscribe to the Sky+ HD service.

The latest set top box is capable of so much more than just offering HD television.

It has features such as a mini screen, so that when the user goes onto the TV Guide, a small screen in the top right cornerdisplays the channel that the viewer was watching.

It will also cater for the additional technology that BSkyB is interested in bringing in.

3D HDTV is due to be launched this year and the standard Sky+ HD set top box is fully capable of handling this technology.