BBC Television

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BBC Television is a service of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). The corporation has operated in the United Kingdom under the terms of a Royal Charter since 1927. It produces television programmes and operates a number of television channels in the UK and abroad.

History

The BBC began its television service on 2 November 1936, broadcasting from Alexandra Palace in London. This made it the world's first regular high-definition television service. The service was suspended during World War II and resumed in 1946.

Channels

The BBC operates several television channels in the UK, including:

• BBC One - The corporation's flagship channel, offering a wide range of programming.
• BBC Two - Known for more niche and highbrow programming.
• BBC Three - Aimed at younger audiences, available online.
• BBC Four - Focuses on arts, documentaries, and more intellectual content.
• CBBC - Children's programming for older children.
• CBeebies - Programming for younger children.
• BBC News - A 24-hour news channel.
• BBC Parliament - Coverage of the UK Parliament and political events.

International Channels

The BBC also operates several international channels, including:

• BBC World News - An international news channel.
• BBC America - A channel available in the United States.
• BBC Canada - A channel available in Canada.

Programming

The BBC is known for producing a wide range of television programmes, including:

• Drama - Such as Doctor Who, Sherlock, and EastEnders.
• Comedy - Including Fawlty Towers, The Office, and Blackadder.
• Documentaries - Such as Planet Earth and Blue Planet.
• News - Including BBC News at Ten and Newsnight.

Funding

The BBC is primarily funded by the television licence fee paid by UK households. This funding model allows the BBC to operate independently of commercial advertising and government influence.

Technology and Innovation

The BBC has been at the forefront of television technology and innovation. It was a pioneer in the development of high-definition television (HDTV) and has been involved in the development of digital television and interactive television services.

Related Pages

• BBC Radio
• BBC Online
• BBC iPlayer
• Public service broadcasting
• Television in the United Kingdom

See Also

• List of BBC television channels
• History of the BBC
• BBC controversies