From a single satellite and 4 channels, Sky has grown into the UK's largest subscription-based digital television provider, offering over 300 channels, fast broadband and free calls. Sky is operated by the British Sky Broadcasting Group (BSkyB), which is part-owned by Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation. It began in 1989 as a 4-channel network, with the launch of the Astra satellite. By 1990, Sky had 1 million UK customers. These days Sky has over 10 million direct subscribers and 4 million more through a partnership with Virgin Media. Sky joined other triple-play providers in offering packages that include digital TV, broadband and phone. It means you can pick and choose the services you want and save money in the process. In more recent times, Sky has hit the headlines over its price-war with BT for its Sky Sports packages and Sky's entry into 3D TV.