Media giant Sky (Sky Broadband) has today announced that its new internet TV (video streaming) service, which is due to launch this summer 2012 and deliver access to Sky content via a “wide range of broadband-connected devices“, will be called NOW TV.
Apparently NOW TV will provide “instant access to some of Sky’s most popular content, including hundreds of films from Sky Movies“. The service will not require either an installation or a contract, although initially it will only offer movies before “soon” expanding to include sport and other general entertainment content.
Sky’s CEO, Jeremy Darroch, said:
“The launch of a second brand is an exciting opportunity for us and the rationale is very simple. Having two brands will allow us to meet the needs and preferences of different customer segments more effectively.
We’ll offer two distinctive ways to watch: the market-leading full Sky service for the whole family, complete with the widest range of channels, high quality products like Sky+, HD and Sky Go, and the peace of mind of a monthly bill; or the flexible, more spontaneous, pay-as-you-go service of NOW TV.
Because NOW TV will also be ‘powered by Sky’, customers will still know that it will give them the best, exclusive content and a high quality experience, from a provider they can trust. Either way, we believe we can offer even more customers a product that’s just right for them.”
Precise details of how much the service will cost aren’t expected to be revealed until closer to launch, although it could face a tough challenge from established players like LOVEFiLM. On the other hand Sky has a huge array of content deals that might give it a distinct edge.
Key Features of NOW TV (Sky Quote):
Great content – the new service will offer some of Sky’s most popular programming. Sky Movies will be available from launch and the service will expand to offer sport and entertainment soon afterwards.
Flexible pricing – with no minimum contract, customers will be able to choose from a variety of pricing options. For example, people will be able to pay monthly for unlimited access to Sky Movies or rent a single movie on a simple, pay-as-you-go basis.
Easy access – the new service will roll out across a wide range of connected devices, including PCs, Macs, laptops, tablets, mobile phones, games consoles and connected TVs.
Ease of use – with immediate streaming through an intuitive interface, backed up by recommendations and editorial support, customers will quickly and easily find the content they most want to watch.
Separately several customers have informed us that Sky’s Video-on-Demand service, Sky Anytime+, is now finally available across all broadband ISP as planned (i.e. not just Sky Broadband subscribers). This move was first announced in January 2012 (here).
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