DIRECTV, Inc., the nation's leading digital television service provider, is now offering local HD programming via satellite to customers in the Baltimore, Cleveland, Charlotte, N.C., Denver, Hartford, Conn., Miami, Orlando, Fla., Raleigh, N.C., and West Palm Beach, Fla., DMAs.

With the addition of these nine markets, DIRECTV now offers local HD broadcast channels in 36 cities with plans to launch in an additional 13 cities later this year, offering access to DIRECTV-delivered local HD channels in more than 65 percent of U.S. television households.

DIRECTV's roll out of local HD channels in Charlotte is part of a nationwide expansion of HD programming that will culminate in 2007, when DIRECTV will have the ability to deliver more than 1,500 local HD channels and more than 150 national HD channels, establishing DIRECTV as a leading provider of HD programming.
 
WHEN: Beginning Wednesday, June 28, 2006

HOW:  Customers who subscribe to a programming package that includes local channels receive both the standard and HD signals at no extra monthly charge. Customers can receive local HD channels by purchasing a new H20 HD receiver and satellite dish. Existing HD customers can upgrade their HD receiver and dish for $99 per receiver. New residential customers can take advantage of a $100 Advanced Product Rebate. Receiving equipment is available at major consumer electronics retailers like Best Buy or Circuit City, and through DIRECTV. 
 
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