VuTV, the streaming service run off the back of DTT platform Freeview, launched Thursday with a selection of mini-pay channels.
Subscribers can pay a monthly £6.99, though with no long term contracts attached. Included in the line up are Comedy Central, MTV, CNN, Lifetime, History, H2, Crime & Investigation Network, Nickelodeon, Nicktoons, Nick Jr., Cartoon Network, Boomerang and Cartoonito.
The launch comes a month after the closure of Top Up TV, but the new platform is using the relatively cheaper option of streaming channels, rather than lease expensive DTT capacity.
David Cutts, Director of VuTV, says: “We have been working with manufacturers from across the industry for some years, both to establish the specification for these TVs and to build the system to use them. We are now finishing off the process of testing and approving the receivers in the market so we can enable more customers to receive VuTV. This is a continuing process and the list of devices that support VuTV will continue to grow”.
Once subscribers have signed up via the vutv.com website, they will be provided with their personal Activation Code and PIN for a one-off registration of their Freeview HD TV or box.
Anthony Lukom, MD and VP general manager, Turner Broadcasting, UK, says: “We demonstrate an ongoing commitment to be where our audiences are, and ensure multiple ways for them to engage with our channels and content. We are delighted that through this great new service our multiplex of channels will be available via broadband connected digital terrestrial TV, a great opportunity for us and our audiences.”
VuTV is run by Synapse TV – a joint venture between Simplestream and Strategy & Technology
A similar service, Connect TV, is operated by Arqiva and concentrates on international channels.
