Foxtel Now launches voice-ready streaming box with access to third party apps
Foxtel has unveiled its streaming service box Foxtel Now, with Chromecast functionality, access to third party streaming apps, free to air and 4k streaming.
It comes two weeks after the launch of Telstra TV’s latest iteration which also includes free to air and 4k streaming.
The ‘Puck’ will be available from Friday for $99
Potentially explains why Foxtel has been dragging their heels on releasing a Foxtel Now app for tvOS.
Inclusion of integrated DVB-T is very attractive, as this will allow for the complete replacement of the built-in (not so) ‘Smart TV’ UI via a single HDMI source and remote-control.
Support for Chromecasting will obviously allow pirated content to be displayed on the device.
There’s a clear commercial strategy being executed here which may not be in the best interest of consumers over the long term – however with the increasing competition which Foxtel is/will be facing from overseas subscription-video competitors, it’s hard to blame them for wanting to once-again own the STB just like the old Foxtel IQ days.