A few of the apps already available on, or coming soon to, connected TVs
Connect TV
Connect TV enables viewers to access channels delivered over the internet directly through the programme guide on any compatible Freeview HD receiver. It allows channels to offer niche channels on Freeview HD over broadband, as well as providing the potential for video on demand services. Racing UK, for example, previously available only on cable and satellite, has now launched on Freeview through the Connect TV platform, providing horseracing coverage for £20 a month.
BBC Sport
The BBC has just launched its new sport app for connected TVs. Complementing the BBC’s other apps, BBC News and BBC iPlayer, this new service will enable viewers to access the BBC’s interactive coverage of major sporting events via the BBC red button. The app will initially focus on Formula 1, and over the next few months, it will also offer enhanced coverage of Euro 2012, Wimbledon and the London 2012Olympic Games.
Curzon On Demand
London’s leading art-house cinema chain Curzon Cinemas has just extended its Curzon On Demand service to Samsung Smart TVs. The video-on-demand platform, which will compete with big names like Netflix and Lovefilm, includes a feature called “In Cinemas, On Curzon”, whereby the cinema chain makes specially selected films available to view simultaneously in the cinema or in the home.
Marks & Spencer
It’s not just media companies who ware creating apps for connected TV. Earlier this year, M&S became the first retailer to launch branded content app. The app, which is basically an extension of the retailer’s online M&S TV channel, includes branded M&S video content ranging from advice, trends, how-to tools and buying guides across its food, non-food and fashion offerings.
Radioplayer
Radioplayer, the internet platform powering all BBC radio content and most of the UK’s commercial stations, is due to launch a Radioplayer app on YouView, the much-delayed internet-connected set-top box backed by the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, Arqiva, TalkTalk and BT. It will then be rolled out to other connected TV platforms.
