Freesat, the new, free digital satellite TV service, is now available nationwide through approved manufacturer and retail partners. For a one-off payment and no subscription, Freesat provides viewers with over 80 digital TV, radio and interactive channels, including high definition (HD) programming from the BBC and ITV.
The first wave of Freesat products are made by Panasonic, Humax and Alba (under the Goodmans, Grundig and Bush brands), with a wide range of products that will cover standard definition and HD digital boxes, digital TV recorders (DTRs) and integrated digital TVs (IDTVs). These products are available through John Lewis, Comet, Currys, Argos and selected independent retailers.
As Freesat’s channels are broadcast from the Astra and Eurobird satellites, it is available to almost every home in the UK (98% of households). So those currently unable to get digital television through an aerial from Freeview will be able to go digital for free with Freesat.
As well as BBC and ITV programmes, Freesat viewers will receive Channel 4, E4, More 4, Film 4 and a wide range of children’s, news and music channels, with further channels being added month by month.
Richard Lindsay-Davies, commercial development director, Freesat UK, commented: “Our aim is to make the Freesat experience available to almost every home in the UK – subscription-free digital and HDTV for everyone. We have chosen partners with the experience and track record to ensure an excellent level of customer satisfaction; from product design to product retail and installation.”
All Freesat receivers will feature a seven day on-screen programme guide, interactive services, plus subtitles and audio description, as well as high-speed digital text and enhanced interactivity. The portfolio of TV and radio channels and interactive services will be continually updated, so Freesat’s channel line-up will get better and better, with around 200 channels available by the end of the year.
>From launch, all Freesat equipment will have an Ethernet (IP) connection built in to enable the development of future services.
For a one-off payment set by the retailer which will vary depending on the equipment purchased, viewers will receive the receiver, satellite dish and professional installation. Only Freesat approved products will have received a Freesat trademark licence and will be able to display the Freesat logo.
A second wave of manufacturers and retailers are currently going through independent evaluation. Freesat anticipates it will announce new manufacturer partners in June 2008.
