Eutelsat launches TV guide app for FTA channels

Eutelsat has launched Sat.TV, a TV guide that includes all free-to-air (FTA) channels at its Hot Bird position at 13 deg. East.

The satellite operator has launched the app in partnership with technology provider Wiztivi to give additional value to the operators of its huge offer of FTA channels from across the world in multiple genres.  the position reaches 66 million homes.

“We wanted to bring a UX for FTA homes that is state of the art,” said Nicolas Moulin-Fournier, head of the connected TV programme at Eutelsat. “The guide is open to all FTA channels on Hot Bird.”

Sat.tv is currently available on Android and iOS devices and provides a snapshot of programme information on all the channels on the platform. It provides a number of number of ways of navigating through the channels and content on Hot Bird. The guide can be viewed as a classical Channel Mosaic, currently with 170 channels present on Sat.tv, with links to channel websites. About 70 of the channels currently provide a full 14-day list of programme information.

The guide can also be configured as a grid, and the guide includes technical information as well as current programme information.

Users can select and organise favourite channels and make selections based on language and also enables users to share programme information on Facebook and Twitter.  “The app is customisable for each and every individual,” said Moulin-Fournier. Languages currently available are French English, Arabic, Italian and Russian.

“We wanted to offer added value to the TV channels to reach audiences for their content. The discussion we have had are very positive,” said Moulin-Fournier.

Eutelsat started work on the spec for the app 18 months ago to match the objectives of channel partners. The satellite operator is also considering adding featulres based on what broadcasters want, said Moulin-Fournier. The question of how to interact with the TV will be developed in the future.

Eutelsat may extend the concept to other positions with a strong FTA offering such as 7 deg. East.