BT last week launched its next-generation BT Vision on-demand service that combines the interactivity of a broadband connection with the broadcast coverage of more than 40 Freeview channels received via antenna.
Highlights of the new offering to UK viewers include no monthly subscription fee, a free set-top box called the V-box with 80 hours of recording time, on-demand access to an extensive library of content and greater choice and control than is provided with conventional distribution technologies.
The HD-ready V-box also allows customers to access BT Vision’s Replay TV service to catch up with some of the broadcast TV programs they may have missed during the previous week.
BT is giving away the V-box for free to existing and new customers who sign up for a new contract with BT Total Broadband. A BT engineer will install the box, and the company will charge an installation and connection. A self-install version will be available in 2007.
BT Vision’s library of on-demand content is delivered over broadband and includes movies, music videos, concerts, children’s programs, recent and classic television, including drama, comedy, documentaries and other genres. In the summer of 2007, BT Vision will launch its new sports service. Following a deal with Setanta, BT Vision Sport customers will have access to the Setanta Sport channel and its 46 live FA Premiership games and 60 live games from the Scottish Premier League.
