BSkyB has announced plans to introduce new ways for consumers to access its online TV service, Sky Player, by making it available via internet-connected TVs and Freeview set-top receivers.
The broadcaster has signed agreements with Cello, who will make Sky Player available through its LCD TVs, and 3View, who is expected to add Sky Player functionality to its upcoming IPTV Freeview HD box.
The deal is expected to bring Sky programming to a wider audience, with Sky Player providing the ability for non-Sky customers to subscribe to monthly online TV plans.
Sky Player, first launched in 2008, uses Microsoft's Silverlight technology as its delivery platform and is already available via a wide range of hardware partners. In addition to the web-based interface, Sky Player was made available via Microsoft's Xbox 360 games console in October 2009 and has since been integrated into Microsoft's flagship desktop operating system, Windows 7. The service is also available to Mac computers and Fetch TV set-top receivers.
Suggesting that Cello and 3View are just the tip of the iceberg, Sky's director of on-demand states that the broadcaster "will continue to look at opportunities to distribute Sky Player across new platforms, to give consumers even more choice and control over how they access high-quality pay TV content."
Sky Player content is available to Sky customers based on product subscription, whilst non-Sky customers can subscribe to the live and on-demand service through a choice of Sky Player TV Packs. Prices start at £15 per month for the basic Entertainment Pack, and rise to £41.50 for Sky's premium Sports and Movies pack. Unlike its Sky+ residential services, Sky Player does not carry an annual contract.
Press release: Sky Player to Launch on Internet Connected TVs and Further Freeview IPTV Set-Top Boxes
