Last April 28, 2010, Direct TV has become the first video provider to offer national distribution of Univision Network and TeleFutura in High Definition. This marks the beginning of Direct TV’s HD expansion to more than 160 HD channels. The Satellite TV provider is also launching Univision and TeleFutura local stations in HD in top Hispanic markets soon, in anticipation of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Derek Chang, Direct TV’s EVP of Content Strategy and Development, says that the company is honored to offer the two leading Spanish language networks in the country and in no less than full HD light. Direct TV is committed to serve the growing demand for HD TV channels in the Hispanic community. In addition, the two networks’ EVP for Distribution Sales and Marketing Tonia O’Connor is also thrilled to partner with Direct TV and to offer the latest high definition programming channels in the market.

Univision and TeleFutura are owned by Univision Communications and are the leading Spanish-language programming destinations for U.S. Hispanics. Regardless of language, Univision is in the top five broadcasting network in the United States while TeleFutura is currently the second most watched Spanish-language network in daytime programming. The two networks earned high ratings in the Hispanic community across the country.

Direct TV subscribers who are HD-ready and are currently receiving standard definition broadcasts of Univision East and TeleFutura West will be glad to know that they will automatically receive the upgrade version of high definition viewing.