Image caption NBC Universal's portfolio includes the NBC, Telemundo, CNBC and Bravo channels

A new television powerhouse looks set to be created after American regulators cleared Comcast's proposed $13.8bn (£8.7bn) takeover of NBC Universal.

The Federal Communications Commission voted 4-1 to approve Comcast's purchase of 51% of NBC from General Electric.

The deal still needs Justice Department approval, though analysts said this was unlikely to be a hurdle.

Comcast is America's largest cable firm, while NBC owns TV stations, theme parks and a movie studio.

The takeover met stiff opposition in parts of the media industry, and the FCC has attached conditions to ensure competitors do not suffer.

These conditions include making NBC's vast output available to rival cable and satellite companies, and internet video services.

Comcast has about 23 million cable TV subscribers and nearly 17 million internet subscribers.

Its channels include E! Entertainment and the Golf Channel, and the company also controls the Philadelphia 76ers and Flyers sports teams.

NBC Universal's portfolio includes the NBC, Telemundo, CNBC and Bravo channels.