Broadband-to-TV giant BT has unveiled a new ‘next generation’ version of its YouView set top box.
Built by Humax, the updated box boasts a new processor to deliver better performance and will be supplied to all new BT TV customers signing up to the service from today.
At just 24cm wide the box is two-thirds the size of the original model and is approximately the same width as BT’s latest HomeHub routers which it’s styled to match.
Like its predecessor, the box allows users to ‘scroll back’ to watch shows they’ve missed, pause and rewind live TV and record their favourite shows and is compatible with YouView’s remote record app.
It also includes buttons on the top of the box for navigating the YouView menus and fast-forwarding and rewinding through programmes.
A retail version has been available through selected outlets, including Argos, since December.
BT says “many existing customers” will be able to upgrade to the new box for £35.
Alex Green, director of BT TV, said: “The new YouView+ box from BT has all the functions and features that viewers love about the service, but it’s even better.
“It’s been a big hit with customers who have already tried it out. They’ve said it is smaller, quieter and faster. The new YouView+ box from BT has been designed in the style of other BT devices, so will look great in any living room.”
BT TV customers receive more than 70 free to air (FTA) channels including HD versions of BBC One, BBC Two, ITV and Channel 4.
Customers with BT’s Infinity Fibre broadband service can also watch BT Sport and add a selection of popular pay channels, including UKTV’s Alibi, Gold and Watch, plus SyFy and Universal, for £7 per month.
The service also offers Pay Per View movies, the ability to buy digital copies of recent Hollywood blockbusters from the set top box, plus access to music videos and a selection of albums.
Box specs:
• Model Name: DTR-T2100
• Size 23.7 W x 4.3 D x 15.2 H (cm)
• Weight 0.76 kg
• Receives over 100 TV & 20 Radio channels, including Freeview HD
• 500GB hard drive, record up to 300 hours
• Pause and rewind live TV
• Record up 2 channels at once
• Video output resolution: 1080P/1080i/720p/576p/576i
• Dolby Digital Plus
• USB 2.0 x 2 (side and rear panel)
• Low power standby mode (<0.5W)
• Colour: Black
