WATCH VIDEO. CES 2017. Dish Networks subsidiary AirTV has launched AirTV Player, a hybrid 4K Android TV-based streaming device integrating free over-the-air channels, Netflix, Sling TV and YouTube.
“Americans are rediscovering free local, over-the-air TV for sports, shows and news, particularly given how well OTA complements popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Sling TV and YouTube,” said Mitch Weinraub, director of product development for AirTV.
“AirTV’s new streaming device and antenna installation service again make getting your entertainment as easy as turning on the TV.” The new device will retail at $129.99, but comes with a $50 credit for Sling TV programming. The set is aimed at potential cord-cutters by combing DTT reception with streaming OTT platforms.
AirTV is dedicated to integrating digital terrestrial broadcasting technology into the entertainment experience, making it simple and accessible to consumers. In the US, local broadcast stations transmit HD channels for free, and consumers can tune in to those channels using an antenna, including dozens of local channels, many affiliates with one of the four major national networks ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC.
“AirTV Player simplifies what has been a fragmented viewing experience and integrates a customer’s entertainment options in one easy-to-navigate app,” said Weinraub. “AirTV Player is a versatile platform that unites live, local over-the-air channels, Netflix, Sling TV, YouTube and the Google Play Store with the click of a button.”
AirTV Player, built on the Android TV operating system, is a streaming device that, at launch, can integrate Netflix, Sling TV, YouTube and thousands of options in the Google Play Store with free local digital terrestrial channels (digital terrestrial television channel integration requires an AirTV adapter and an antenna, both sold separately). Internet access is required for streaming platforms and AirTV Player is Wi-Fi and Ethernet compatible. AirTV Player connects to a TV via HDMI.
“AirTV Player connects consumers to some of the most popular streaming platforms now, and we’re interested in adding even more choices in the future,” said Weinraub.
“With a custom-built smart remote that controls the AirTV Player, your TV and your sound system, as well as dedicated buttons for Netflix and Sling TV, customers can focus on watching the best content, rather than juggling remote controls.”
Technicolor was chosen by AirTV to build the AirTV Player.
“Technicolor manufactures more than 30 million devices that deliver video services every year. We have over four years’ experience integrating Android technology into connected home devices,” said Luis Martinez-Amago, President of the Connected Home North America division of Technicolor.
“This enables AirTV to offer consumers the ability to watch streaming and OTA channels without switching inputs, and utilizing the Sling TV interface to simplify the experience.”
AirTV Player includes Netflix, Sling TV and YouTube pre-installed. A Sling TV account and Netflix membership are required to access those apps. Google Play Store – Built on Android TV, AirTV Player provides access to thousands of shows, movies, apps and games through the Google Play Store. A Google account is required to use the Google Play Store. AirTV is also capable of playing 4k Ultra HD content.
