Broadband ISP Wildanet launch TiVo Powered UK 4K TV Freely streaming service

Alternative broadband provider Wildanet, which is deploying a new 2Gbps speed full fibre (FTTP) network across rural parts of Cornwall and Devon (England), today claims to have become the UK’s first internet provider to launch a “Powered by TiVo” broadband TV service that brings live TV, catch-up and streaming services together in one place, using a single box and remote with voice search.

The announcement comes not long after we reported on how a number of UK internet service providers were looking to bundle British device manufacturer Manhattan’s Freely-supporting Aero 4K TV Streaming Box, or similar kit using the TiVo OS, alongside some of their packages (here). TiVo were understood to be in the process of pitching their platform as white-label solution for alternative broadband ISPs to adopt as part of branded broadband bundles.

The news today is that Wildanet has become the first to adopt the new platform from TiVo, which will power their Pay TV service. “Customers across Cornwall and Devon can access hundreds of live TV channels and streaming content, with recommendations and conversational voice search helping them discover what to watch more easily, all through a Wi-Fi connection and without needing a new smart television,” said the ISP.

The new service is already said to be available to Wildanet customers in live network areas, with “simple monthly pricing and no need to replace existing televisions“.

Simon Hughes, Chief Commercial Officer at Wildanet, said:

“When we speak to residents across the South West, they tell us they don’t want more gadgets or complicated set‑ups; they just want things that work. The growing demand for Wi-Fi and TV in one place shows there is real demand for better, simpler services in rural areas powered by reliable, ultrafast full fibre broadband.

Partnering with TiVo is an important step for us to offer our customers an innovative, easy-to-use and cost-effective TV service. We have moved beyond simply providing ultrafast broadband connections to offering plug-and-play services, powered by full fibre and shaped around the way people want to watch TV nowadays.”

Gabriel Cosgrave, General Manager, EMEA at TiVo said:

“Wildanet’s launch marks an exciting step for TiVo as we enter the UK’s alternative network market. By combining our intuitive entertainment platform with Wildanet’s full fibre connectivity, we are making it easier for customers to find, watch and enjoy live TV, catch-up and streaming services from one simple, seamless experience. Together, we’re bringing a premium TV and entertainment experience to local communities, while demonstrating how fibre providers can extend their offering beyond connectivity and create more value for their customers and themselves.”

The press announcement itself was surprisingly devoid of any real detail, but we did find this page on their website that prices the TV service from £8.99 per month (this will rise to £9.39 from Dec 2027 – a 40p monthly price increase). For that you’ll be tied into a 24-month contract (other altnets we’ve seen have preferred 30-day plans), get a TV box, remote control with batteries, HDMI and power cable.

No details have been provided on the technical capabilities of the set-top-box itself, although it doesn’t appear to support recording (PVR) and the limited description does make us think that it might indeed be Manhattan’s box. This normally retails for about the £90 to £100 mark (one-off without a long contract and future price hikes). So far as we can tell, you’re not getting any premium TV channels for your money above.