Astra satellite operator SES will offer its German TV platform HD+ not only via satellite, but also via internet streaming in future.
Notably, “HD+ IP” will not be an open OTT solution, but reach TV screens through a smart TV app. With the strategic move, SES targets the more than 20 million TV households in Germany without DTH satellite reception.
The “HD+ IP” app will initially be launched on Panasonic TV sets, with other manufacturers to follow. Users will have access to over 50 HD channels, including all major public and commercial TV channels such as ARD, ZDF, RTL, Sat.1 and ProSieben. They will also be able to access the catch-up services and interactive features, such as restarting programmes, a TV guide and a search function.
“The launch of ‘HD+ IP’ marks a new era in marketing for us. Especially in the urban areas with low DTH satellite penetration, we have not yet been able to take off as we would have liked. Now the tide is turning, practically all homes in these regions have powerful internet connections,” said Norbert Hölzle, Senior Vice President Commercial, SES, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Managing Director of operating company HD Plus.
“Overall, we will potentially reach every one of the total of 38 million television households in Germany in future. In addition, we are available on every smartphone or tablet with the recently launched mobile service HD+ ToGo. With the combination of classic TV reception, streaming and mobile use, we will meet every aspect of today’s media use and the demands of consumers,” added Hölzle.
“HD+ IP” is expected to be available from December 2021, initially for owners of the latest range of Panasonic TV sets from the JXW854 series onwards, via an automatic software update.
The offer can be tested free of charge for one month. Afterwards, viewers will have the choice between a subscription for €6 per month (via the HD+ web shop) or the purchase of a 12-month extension via a prepaid voucher for €75 (from local retailers or the HD+ web shop).
An internet connection with a bandwidth of at least 6Mbps is required for use, 16Mbps is recommended.
HD+ suggests that DTH satellite households continue using the HD+ offer via Astra, because they can then also receive the Ultra HD channels.
