Vodafone is introducing a new generation of its GigaTV hardware on 28 May 2024 in Germany.
As a hybrid box, the new model is suitable for both a classic TV cable subscription (DVB-C) and TV streaming (OTT) for the first time. Previously, there were different versions for this.
There is also no longer a local hard drive. Instead, all recorded content is stored in a cloud, which has space for up to 200 hours of TV recordings. The content can also be accessed via the GigaTV app on other devices, such as smartphones, tablets or further TV sets in the household.
Vodafone has opted for Android TV as the operating system, which offers a large selection of apps via the Google Play Store, including Netflix, DAZN, Disney+, RTL+ and Prime Video. The device is suitable for Ultra HD (4K/HDR) – both for DVB-C and IP streaming.
The hybrid box is available in two versions, both of which can be used with a Vodafone cable TV subscription or with an internet connection from any ISP. The standard model GigaTV Home costs €9.99 per month for the first six months of the 24-month contract period, and €14.99 per month thereafter.
The GigaTV Home Sound version with three integrated speakers and subwoofer, sound system from Bang & Olufsen and Dolby Atmos technology costs €5 more per month. Music from Spotify and other providers can also be played from the smartphone via the speakers using Bluetooth and Chromecast.
The accompanying TV package offers access to 82 TV channels in SD and 57 TV channels in HD resolution. Additional HD channels can be added via the Vodafone Premium pay-TV package for an extra charge of €5 per month.
Vodafone is not only offering the new box to new customers, existing customers can also obtain it, for example as part of a contract renewal. In return, the marketing of the GigaTV Cable Box 2 for cable TV and the Android-based GigaTV.net for internet TV will end on 28 May. Vodafone will also no longer offer AppleTV in conjunction with the GigaTV app.
Source: https://www.broadbandtvnews.com/2024/05/07/vodafone-germany-launches-dvb-c-ott-hybrid-box/