Channel Master, maker of a subscription-free DVR for cord-cutters with on-board over-the-air TV capabilities, has launched Channel Master TV, a feature that integrates linear OTT streams with the platform’s underlying program guide.
Channel Master, which announced plans for the new linear OTT component in January, said the software update is now being rolled out to all DVR+ customers, enabling them to select and change streams instantly without having to launch separate applications.
In tandem with the launch of Channel Master TV, the company will sell its baseline DVR+ model for $199 ($50 off its regular price) for today only (June 8) from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. PT, alongside free shipping within the continental U.S. and a free HDMI cable. It’s top-of-the-line DVR+ model, which is equipped with 1 terabyte of storage, sells for $399.
Channel Master said it will add Internet channels to the Channel Master TV platform without the need for a software update, noting that customers will receive an email notification when a new channel is added. To help its users customize the experience, they can “hide” and “un-hide” which Internet channels appear on DVR+’s Channel Master TV interface.
Multichannel News has asked Channel Master for a list of OTT “channels” it’s offering at the get-go, but some that are featured in the above company-supplied screen-capture include WeatherNation TV, Biz TV, FoodyTV, and The Outdoor Cooking Channel.
Channel Master has also recently demonstrated Sling TV running on its platform (subscription required), but has not announced when it might make the new OTT-TV service from Dish Network available on DVR+ on a commercial basis.
“This platform is a game changer in an alternative TV solution,” Joe Bingochea, executive vice president of product development at Channel Master, said in a statement. “We’ve taken the app out of the OTT experience for streamed linear video. For people who are looking for a non-traditional TV service, Channel Master TV adds an entirely new dimension, combined with OTA, On Demand and DVR in a single guide with no fees.”
“We’re giving the customer what they want in a true zero-fee TV service. Everything they can get for free, including Antenna Channels, Internet Channels, Streaming Services, DVR and Program Guide, we’re providing with no contract and no subscription. And there’s a lot more to come,” added Coty Youtsey, Channel Master’s president and CEO, noting that in addition to mainstream content such as news channels, the company is also interested in providing “unique programming.”
