USB key brings lost channels back to Sky Italia

Sky Italia has announced the launch of a DTT-enabled USB key that will plug into the back of its receivers. At the same time the broadcaster has announced it will boost the number of HD channels available on the platform to 30 from the present 16.

Launching in December, the USB stick neatly sidesteps the problem of the Mediaset and RAI channels that have been encrypted and consequently unavailable to Sky Italia households, since the launch in August of TivùSat. The miniature DTT tuner will simply pick up those and other channels from the local terrestrial transmitter. Sky Italia subscribers will enjoy a seamless experience, the channels being integrated with the existing programme guide, enabling the use of a single remote control. The device works with both the HD and HD PVR receivers.

The satcaster confirmed on Monday that its HD line-up will increase to 30 channels by the end of 2010. One million of Sky Italia’s 4.8 million subscriber are currently signed up to the HD package.

New programme packages will come into effect from October 23, bringing down the price of the monthly subscription to its sport and movie packages by separating them from the main multichannel bouquet. For example the Cinema package now costs €34, some €9 less than previously.