History of CNN (1980–2003) History of CNN (1980–2003) Cable News Network (CNN), an American basic cable and satellite television channel that is owned by the Turner Broadcasting System division of Time Warner, was founded in 1980 by Ted Turner and 25 other original members, who invested $20 million into the network. Upon its launch, CNN became the first channel to provide 24-hour television news coverage, and was the first all-news television network in the United States. This article discusses the history of CNN, beginning with the June 1980 launch of the channel. Four years before CNN's launch, in December 1976, Ted Turner turned his
CNN International June 3 switchover, finalising on 17 June of the same year, when the switchover was completed. In late 2010, the American CNN channel became available in HD to viewers in Japan under the name CNN HD. The CNN U.S. domestic version (both SD and HD) is also available on Greater China-based satellite service DishHD (subsidiary of Dish Network in U.S.). On 28 June 2016, CNN International HD was launched for Sky customers in the UK, on channel 506 or 579, making the next news channel launch in the 600's, as it is next to the GOD Channel. CNN debuted its