Freesat announces new catch-up TV service

Freesat has unveiled the next generation of its subscription free satellite TV service.

New Freesat boxes will include a backwards EPG plus catch-up content from the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5.

iPlayer and ITV Player will be available at launch with 4oD and Demand Five promised by Christmas.

Viewers will also have access to a new Showcase section that offers recommendations on programmes to watch tonight, in the coming week and on demand.

All catch-up and on demand content will be delivered via broadband.

Existing boxes will not be able to receive the new service. The first compatible boxes are being built by Humax and will retail for around £279.

To receive the service homes will also need a compatible dish capable of providing at least two ‘feeds’ to the box, as is the case with existing Freesat+ and Sky+ services.

The new features will allow Freesat to compete with YouView, the new digital terrestrial TV platform which also offers on demand and catch-up content.

They could also increase the attractiveness of free TV for existing Sky homes looking to reduce overheads.

Emma Scott, Managing Director of Freesat said: “TV is a simple pleasure that technology can make even better, not more complicated. Our new boxes with give satellite viewers everything they get with freesat today and so much more in a single, simple and easy to use on screen guide.

“We want to help viewers find something great to watch the minute they sit down, so they can spend less time searching and more time watching the TV they love.”