Set top box maker Manhattan has launched their first Freeview Play set-top box.
The T3 Freeview Play 4K Smart Box combines access to over 70 Freeview channels with catch-up services such as BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, Demand 5, UKTV Play, CBS Catch up Channels UK and Horror Bites.
It also includes YouTube and YouTube kids – bringing popular online content to the biggest screen in the home.
Wi-Fi connectivity means there’s no need for long network cables or powerline adapters and the firm claims the its quad-core CPU “delivers the speed and responsiveness viewers expect in a next generation TV experience, more akin to the latest smartphone rather than a legacy set-top box.”
“Manhattan pride ourselves on delivering affordable set-top-boxes that punch way above their weight” said Alex Arbab-Zadeh Director of Product Development at Manhattan TV.
“Lots of set-top boxes offer a blend of live TV and catch-up services, however they don’t often deliver the best experience for the viewer.
“The T3 is designed to upgrade people’s viewing experience. The T3 allows viewers to simply and effortlessly switch between live and on-demand TV, while enjoying a whole host of features such as Recommendations, Search and Watchlists along with HD and 4K compatibility.
“We believe the T3 experience is very much on a par with high-end pay TV set top boxes, but for a competitive, one-off fee.”
James Jackson, Technology Director for Freeview Play, added: “We are delighted to welcome Manhattan on board. The demand for Freeview Play has been increasing rapidly since our launch three years ago, reflected in the wide range of Freeview Play devices now available.
“Viewers can now choose from a huge range of Freeview Play devices from high end design led TVs retailing at over £10,000 to set top boxes retailing at under £80.”
The T3 Freeview Play set-top box comes backed by Manhattan’s free two-year manufacturers guarantee and UK-based customer support team. The T3 is available from leading retailers from today.
A recording version will be available later in 2019.