TBC launches ‘add-on’ DVR

Rose Major

Cable operator Taiwan Broadband Communications (TBC) is launching a digital video recorder (DVR) service via a “plug and play” add-on to existing set-top boxes. The move will reduce the usual costs involved in upgrading a subscriber to a DVR service, making such a service more accessible to lower-income homes.

TBC’s DVR service is the first in Asia to be deployed using an external DVR device. The device is connected to existing high-definition set-top boxes via a USB port.

Otherwise, the new service has all the standard DVR features, including control live TV, instant recording and series recording, programmable via the EPG. Initially costing NT$60 per month (US$1.82), the regular price of the service will rise to NT$80 a month after a while. Subscribers need to take TBC’s Digital Basic Pack at NT$200 a month.

TBC President Loke Kheng Tham said: “TBC is focused on adding value to our customers and driving digital adoption in Taiwan. Since Day One when we embarked on our new digital TV service, we had planned for the DVR as one of the main pillars. This is because Taiwanese households already have access to a wide variety of channels on their Cable TV service. The DVR will allow them to experience the content that they love on a whole new level so we are confident that our customers will be won over to the new DVR service quickly.”