The various types of advanced television (ATV) are defined, and the most advanced type, high-definition TV (HDTV), is discussed. The present status of HDTV development in the US, Japan, and Europe is examined. Signal processing requirements for HDTV are briefly considered, and the benefits of and prospects for all-digital HDTV are explored. Video compression techniques, implementation issues, and the future of HDTV are also discussed