Astra Deutschland has launched its interactive hybrid VOD and catch-up TV service HD+ Replay. The service is free to use during its introductory period.
RTL Deutschland is the first broadcaster to offer its catch-up TV service RTL Now and Vox Now as part of the service, with a dedicated version for Super RTL Now to follow soon.
The broadcaster is offering selected programming including the German version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire?, episodes of CSI – New York and the German talent show Das Supertalent.
HD+ Replay is a hybrid service combining the satellite DTH reception of the HD+ platform of German HD channels with an internet-connected service using the HbbTV standard. A broadband speed of at least 6 Mbps is recommended.
During the current test phase the service is available free of charge to users for a period of three months. When the full services goes live, a subscription fee of EUR15.00 per three months (EUR60.00 per year) will be payable. The charge comes on top of the regular ‘technical fee’ of EUR50 a year, which is charged for the HD+ DTH service.
Satellite receiver manufacturer Inverto Digital Labs said it is the first to offer a suitable receiver for the new service, it’s Volksbox Web Editioon+.