Here's a list of the ratings for each opening

2004: 5.25m
2005: 6.72m
2006: 7.45m
2007: 9.78m
2008: 10.78m
2009: 11.00m
2010: 11.88m
2011: 11.05m
2012: 8.7m
2013: 9.2m
2014: 9.5m
2015: 7.6m
2016: ???

Do you think the ratings will be up, down or stay the same for this years series opener?

Higher, Lower or the same? Higher.
Reason: now they've got Dermot, Louis back (we all know it) and Cheryl's gone and if Sharon returns i reckon it could see a boost like we saw in 2013.
Predicted ratings: 8.14m

what does everybody else think???

Everything so far suggests they are going to be down to just under 6 million.

my guess is 8 million

I think out of sheet curiosity the viewing figures in the first few weeks will be above 8 million. It's what happens after the audition stages that will make or break the 2016 series.

I'm gonna also say 8 million. Might even reach 9 million if they have seriously good talented singers through to the live shows.

Hmm, i think that's too low considering the final got 8.4m. I'd say minimum 7m but it only takes One bad decision such as hiring the most hated DJ presenter in the UK as a Judge to ruin the whole series.