Sony is integrating direct access to German TV platform HD+ into all Google TV models from 2021, with the implementation to be completed in the coming months.
Unlike Panasonic, Samsung and Vestel, which integrate HD+ into their TV sets via the HbbTV OpApp, Sony uses a specially designed Android app for this purpose, an HD+ spokesman told Broadband TV News.
In addition to TV channels in HD and Ultra HD (UHD) resolution, viewers can use additional interactive functions such as instant restart, direct access to catch-up TV services and the TV guide. If the programme currently running is available in UHD quality, a notice is displayed on the screen.
“With Sony, a very important partner is integrating HD+ into its TV models as standard. Meanwhile, HD+ is already implemented in more than every second UHD TV set being sold in Germany. The manufacturers are focusing on the growing importance of HD+ as an important sales argument for their marketing,” said Georges Agnes, Managing Director at HD+.
Thilo Röhrig, Commercial Director at Sony Deutschland, added: “The HD+ app is a big plus, because it complements our extensive range of pre-installed apps, offers many convenience functions and gives users access to TV channels in HD quality as well as Ultra HD. Our retail partners also benefit from this added value through the integration of HD+.”
Buyers of Sony UHD TV sets can activate HD+ during the initial set-up, enabling them to access the HD+ channel line-up without the need for additional devices such as a set-top box or HD+ module. They can also use the interactive functions during the 6-month free trial period.
