Foxtel Now launches its own streaming device with free-to-air access and Chromecast

FOXTEL will launch its very own streaming device as it prepares to release a host of homegrown shows in the new year.

FOXTEL Now viewers will enjoy the freedom of streaming all TV content — from free-to-air to subscription services — as well as internet, apps and games via a new box launching this Friday.

The $99 ‘puck’ will mean audiences can now access Foxtel’s vast slate of drama, reality and live sport programming, as well as local free-to-air channels and other subscription services without having to switch between inputs.

First there was the Foxtel Now app, now Foxtel is releasing the ‘box’, which will allow viewers to stream all TV content, as well as internet, games and apps.

Foxtel boss Peter Tonagh said the box “is our next big step as we continue to advance Foxtel’s streaming offering”.

“Foxtel Now has already proven to be a hit with customers, offering the most flexible and affordable way to experience the best choice in live sport, new movies, TV and complete seasons,” he said, adding “with today’s launch, that experience gets even better.

“For the first time, Australians can watch Foxtel on their TV with a Foxtel designed set top box that is completely powered by the internet offering a no lock-in contract, affordable and flexible way to see Foxtel’s exclusive content both locally produced and from the world’s best entertainment brands. Self-installation is easy removing the need for a technician. Simply bring the box home and sign up to Foxtel Now to start watching.”

For the tech-minded, the box runs on android TV, a deliberate decision, Mr Tonagh said, to make it an “open platform”.

Peter Tonagh, Foxtel CEO. Picture: John Feder/The Australian.

A game changer for Foxtel customers, “it will also mean users have access to a host of content, apps and games form the Google Play store, where they can rent or buy movies, shows, movies and more,” he added.

The box will allow subscribers of Stan and other Chromecast-compatible streaming services to access their subscriptions easily, with Mr Tonagh confirming Foxtel was currently in talks with Netflix about doing the same for its customers.

Foxtel's Picnic at Hanging Rock stars Ruby Rees, Lily Sullivan and Madeleine Madden. Picture: Justin Lloyd

The latest announcement comes after a stunning year for Foxtel, which swept a record seven Logie awards; broke ground with its launch of a stand-alone league channel; and will move into 2018 with a slate of high-quality, homegrown productions ready to roll.

A reimagining of the classic Peter Weir film Picnic At Hanging Rock and a provocative exploration of modern warfare and PTSD in The Fighting Season will lead the billing — poised to join Wentworth and A Place To Call Home as audience drama favourites.

The Fighting Season cast, including Paul De Gelder, Julian Maroun, Jay Ryan, Ewen Leslie, George Puller and Marco Aloisi. Picture: Richard Dobson

George Puller, a thrilling new talent and WAAPA graduate, who juggled filming of The Fighting Season with a role in A Place To Call Home this year, said the opportunity to make quality drama in Australia for Foxtel was a win for both creatives and the community.

More local drama will continue off the back of Foxtel success stories like Wentworth, the reimagining of 70s TV series, Prisoner. Picture: Foxtel.

“Audiences can make the misconception about Australia ... just because we make less content than other countries ... we have less quality but when it comes to quality, Australia is at the top of its game.”

The Foxtel Now box can be ordered online. Kogan Online and other retailers will offer it for sale next year.