NOW TV Launch New Smart Box with 4K UltraHD and Voice Search

Sky’s sibling NOW TV video streaming service, which also offers a contract-free broadband ISP and phone package (NOW Broadband), has introduced a new Smart Box device for UK customers that now includes support for 4K (Ultra HD) video quality, Netflix and Voice Search.

Just to recap. NOW TV is owned by Sky and offers a useful little broadband-based video streaming service to those who don’t want to be tied down to the full Sky TV product. Customers who join NOW TV get access to some of the most popular premium live TV channels (Sky Atlantic, FOX, Sky One, SyFy etc.) and related video-on-demand content via the purchase of monthly “Passes” (Entertainment Pass £7.99 a month, Sky Cinema Pass £9.99 a month, Sports £33.99 a month etc.).

On top of that NOW TV also offers the the option of a broadband (ADSL / FTTC) and phone line bundle (NOW Broadband), which is essentially a re-branded version of their parent’s Sky Broadband product but without the need to take a longer contract term if so desired. Pricing for this is similar to Sky, although the deals do vary.

Previously new customers who purchased one of the NOW TV packages will have also been supplied with either a Roku powered NOW TV Smart Stick (a small HDMI streaming adapter for your TV costing £14.99) or the more feature rich Smart Box. Sadly both only supported HD video quality.

The good news is that NOW TV has just launched a new Smart Box, which adds both support for 4K (UHD) video streaming at up to 60fps, HDR, voice search and Netflix. Admittedly they’re a bit behind the times as some of their rivals have been offering 4K via similar devices for awhile, but better late than never.

Gidon Katz, MD of NOW TV, said:

“With 4K and Voice Search the powerful new NOW TV Smart Box gets you to your favourite shows faster than ever and lets you explore the expanding world of 4K content across our apps. Plus, settle in and stream the shows you love all in one place as we end the struggle with TV inputs by adding Netflix to our NOW TV Smart Stick and Smart Box.”

The box itself is priced at £45.99 or £49.99 if you buy one at Argos or Currys PCWorld with an included 1 month pass for Entertainment, Sky Cinema, Kids and Sky Sports Day Pass.

Key Features of the 4K NOW TV Smart Box
* 4K capable Box with Ultra HD streaming at up to 60 fps and HD.
* Voice Search to quickly find shows, films, actors or directors or dive straight into your apps.
* Download over 50 apps including Netflix, Sky News, YouTube, UKTV Play and Vevo.
* Browse the best UK catch-up services, including BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4 and Demand 5.
* Live pause technology across NOW TV’s premium live channels.
* Switch to ‘Night Mode’ to reduce loud sounds, like explosions in your favourite action movie, so you don’t wake the whole house.
* Micro SD storage so you can save additional apps.
* A Wi-Fi remote that can turn your TV on and off and control volume – to reduce the need for multiple remotes.
* Direct access buttons take you straight to My TV, TV Guide, Kids and Sky Store.
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