FetchTV is available through a whole heap of ISPs already, but it seems as though the announcement today that Optus will offer FetchTV services is the most exciting one yet for the fledgling IPTV company. Because Optus are going to take this service mobile, baby.
At the moment, FetchTV is a service available through ISPs like iiNet and Internode, but requires a dedicated set-top box connected to the Internet. The Optus announcement promises a much more exciting offering, with the service to become available through various devices like smartphones and tablets.
According to director of Optus digital media, Austin Bryan:
“The way people view and engage with video content is changing rapidly. Optus wants to be at the forefront of this change which is why we’re partnering with FetchTV to develop a unique TV offering across multiple devices.
With its strong content line-up and innovative delivery platform, we believe FetchTV is the best partner to help us develop a service which will provide customers with a fantastic user experience.”
The service is set to launch in the second half of this year, with pricing to be announced closer to launch.
If they can launch it with streaming over 3G for mobile devices, it’s the kind of service that could persuade non tablet users to jump on board. Exciting times!