wedotv taps Eutelsat’s satellites for new FAST launch in Italy

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AVOD and FAST channel programmer and distributor, wedotv, has tied with satellite operator Eutelsat to launch a new wedotv FAST channel platform in Italy via its HOTBIRD satellites, at 13° East.

Starting this month, wedotv will add a lineup of 30 FAST channels, including its own proprietary FAST channels, wedo movies, wedo big stories and wedo sports in Italy.

Viewers in the region with a connected TV will be also able to watch the AVOD content through wedotv via an HbbTV App, which is accessible via an embedded link. This will enable viewers to switch between the linear channel and streaming content, said wedotv.

The HOTBIRD satellites are the reference video neighbourhood for audiences in Italy.

The FAST outfit explained satellite distribution of its FAST platform will enhance and extend the company’s current reach across Italy to a larger audience of connected TVs, as well as to reach a new audience of non-connected TV viewers, including hard-to-reach areas beyond terrestrial networks.

“Through our partnership with Eutelsat, we are forging new territory in the distribution of FAST channels; expanding the reach of OTT-delivered services to traditional distribution platforms via HbbTV technology and further blurring the lines of the notion of linear TV,” said Philipp Rotermund, CEO, wedotv. “Ultimately, wedotv’s goal is to provide a seamless and convenient viewing experience for its consumers, wherever they are located, and this is yet another step toward doing just that.”

Laurence Delpy, general manager of Eutelsat’s Video Business Unit added: “We are delighted to welcome wedotv, our first FAST channel platform, to our flagship HOTBIRD video neighbourhood. The launch of wedotv on HOTBIRD highlights the relevance of satellite to bring new types of content to audiences wherever they are located. By expanding their strategy and including satellite distribution in their business model, wedotv can now reach audiences in homes beyond terrestrial networks, with a cost-effective, sustainable and high-quality video distribution solution.”