ITV has started test transmissions of its new high definition simulcast of ITV1.

As announced last week, the public service broadcaster intends to launch ITV1 HD on Freeview in time for the World Cup tournament next year.

It is also currently “looking at the options” in regards to ITV1 HD on Freesat, where the channel is currently offered as a red button-only service as opposed to a distinct channel or simulcast.

ITV is currently testing a simulcast of ITV1 Granada on the 10510 test label, which is usually used for ITV1 HD on satellite via the red button.

It is unknown at the prsent time if ITVHD will be available on the Sky EPG, however, it should be available with SkyHD users with the new HD EPG – using the current “Add Channels” trick.