Foxtel is heating up competition in the streaming device market by unveiling its new ‘plug and play’ Foxtel Now device, only weeks after the launch of Telstra TV.
As well as providing access to Foxtel Now in HD, device offers broader access to a host of programming streamed instantly to consumers, live or on-demand. It also streams free-to-air channels via a built-in free-to-air tuner.
The built-in Chromecast functionality allows viewers to ‘cast’ movies, music and photos from Android or iOS mobile devices, PCs or Macs directly to their TV. The Foxtel Now box also offers customers access to content, games, music and apps from the Google Play store as well as the ability to stream at 4K quality with compatible apps.
The launch followed only a few weeks after the TelstraTV, which offers free-to-air, subscription TV and on-demand streaming. That device offers a unique mobile app and set top box integration, which allows users to search, plan and play content anytime, while also acting as a second remote control for a Telstra TV home device.
“This is just the beginning for the new Telstra TV, with future product iterations like voice activation, personalised recommendations and more content partners," Telstra's executive media director, Michele Garra, said. "It will ensure our customers are connecting with the entertainment they love now and in the future."
Meanwhile for Foxtel, with its recent Foxtel Now rebrand and launch, the message was clear from Foxtel’s MD of customer and retail, Mark Buckman, that Foxtel was looking to broaden its customer base, touting new and more flexible ways to access content across various channels. And according to Foxtel CEO, Peter Tonagh the sneak peek of the device shared at the Foxtel Now launch had already created a buzz.
“Foxtel Now has already proven to be a hit with customers, offering the most flexible and affordable way to experience the best choice in live sport, new movies, TV and complete seasons," Tonagh said. "And after the success of Foxtel Now, we’re delighted to lift the lid on our incredible new Foxtel Now box. With today’s launch, that experience gets even better.
“For the first time, Australians can watch Foxtel on their TV with a Foxtel designed set top box that is completely powered by the Internet, offering a no lock-in contract, and an affordable and flexible way to see Foxtel’s exclusive content both locally produced and from the world’s best entertainment brands."
The Foxtel Now box is available to the consumer from 10 November.
Follow CMO on Twitter: @CMOAustralia, take part in the CMO conversation on LinkedIn: CMO ANZ, join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CMOAustralia, or check us out on Google+:google.com/+CmoAu
