Humax launches first Android TV-powered Freeview Play recorder

Humax has announced the launch of what it claims to be the first Android TV-powered 4K Freeview Play recorder.

Dubbed Aura, the new set-top-box will launch in November with an SRP of £249 for the 1TB model and £279 for the 2TB version.

The STB is powered by Android TV with Freeview Play built-in. This enables access to the full suite of catch-up and on-demand services from the UK’s top broadcasters like BBC iPlayer and ITV Hub, along with premium streamers such as Netflix and Disney+.

The integration of Android TV also includes Google Assistant for content discoverability and smart home device control.

For DVR purposes, Aura  incorporates three digital tuners, allowing up to four programmes to be recorded at once while the user watches another live channel. Two hard drive options enabling up to 500 or 1,000 hours of recordings to be stored. Many features of the STB are accessible on mobile with the Aura app. This allows users to stream recordings remotely, along with scheduling recordings.

Rob Peacock, director at Humax, said: “Aura is designed to sit at the heart of a family’s home entertainment experience. The very first Freeview Play recorder to be built on the Android TV platform, it provides a fully integrated environment that reflects the preferences and favourite content of the individual or family – with lightning-fast access to everything they need in one place, and outstanding picture quality.

“With such an extensive array of features, users will never miss their favourite show, movie or sporting event, and thanks to a combination of Google technology and the Humax Aura app, they can enjoy the freedom of entertainment on any screen or device, wherever and whenever they wish.”