FreeviewPlus set to debut September 2

By (incomplete) | 7 August 2014
 

After months of speculation and delays, Freeview has finally confirmed the launch of HbbTv running under the banner of FreeviewPlus.

The decision to kick off the hybrid TV and broadband technology has been delayed by six months due to delays in the delivery of HbbTV-capable TVs to retailers and the surprise resignation from Freeview of Seven affiliate Prime Media which said it did not believe the costs of HbbTV was justified.

Freeview has launched a teaser campaign to drive interest in the new technology ahead of its debut.

Announcing the launch date, general manager of Freeview, Liz Ross, said it was one of the most important advances in entertainment since digital TV.

“FreeviewPlus is one of the most important advances in free-to-air television in Australia since the introduction of digital TV so it’s important we start to generate a buzz about the new service among Australian viewers,” Ross said.

“As in all of our previous TV campaigns, this teaser spot features well-known and loved Australian TV celebrities – they’re excited about the forthcoming launch, and there is plenty to be excited about.”

A new electronic programming guide is at the core of the system, as well as the ability to access the free-to-air networks range of catchup servcies.

Users will also be able to browse and serarch programs across seven days.

As part of the launch a number of manufacturers are introducsing HbbTV-enable TVs as well as HbbTV set top boxes.

After the debut of digital TV in 2006, the service is seen as being crucila to the commercial networks taking on subscription TV as well as trying to tackle the rise of viewers accessing content on their TVs directly through the web.

The promotional campaign features a number of Aussie celebrities saying how excited they are about the launch of the new service.

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