A firm called Real Digital TV Ltd is planning to launch a Pay-TV satellite TV system in the UK, as a rival to the mighty Sky Digital. Here’s our summary of what we know so far:
Read Digital has been looking to launch a satellite TV service for a while. Originally, there were plans to launch the service in 2010, and then in early 2011.
Reports in July showed that the service was looking to launch in September 2011.
Reports are sketchy just at the moment, but here’s what we know so far:
When will Real Digital Launch?
We understand that the last planned launch date was shown as September 2011. Test transmissions reportedly started in August 2011. As of 2013, no news!
What will Real Digital Offer?
Some channels will be free. Other channels will be Pay-TV service, so customers will subscribe to get premium channels.
Their site claims up to 400 channels, with 5 HD channels
We don’t have a clear picture of the channel lineup yet, however we do know that Real Digital has signed up to be able to carry Sky Sports 1 and Sky Sports 2 – presumably cheaper than via Sky’s service
How will I be able to get Real Digital?
As with Sky and Freesat, you’ll need a satellite TV receiver. These will be available online and on the high street when the service launches.
You’ll also need a satellite dish, but as Real Digital uses the same satellite as Sky and Freesat, an existing Sky or Freesat dish will be fine.
Real Digital Set-top boxes?
We’ve heard that two will be available from launch:
- A Fortec Set top Box
- A Digital Stream Set Top Box twin tuner PVR
Both support HD, MHEG5 and are Internet enabled (via Ethernet cable)
Early shots of the Fortec Real Digital box
How do I find out more?
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Links
- UK Satellite TV Forum – Talk about Real Digital, Freesat and Sky
- Sky Information – General information on Sky Digital
- Satellite TV FAQ – Help and advice on general satellite TV issues
