Foxtel has embraced the online streaming revolution by launching an Internet only service for those that want Foxtel without a long contract or the previously compulsory home connection.
Dubbed Foxtel Play, the new service offers access up to 40 live channels delivered via the Internet to PCs and Macs; Xbox 360s (a Xbox Live Gold subscription is also required); and 2012 and 2013 Samsung Smart TVs. Subscribers to Foxtel Play will also get access to the Foxtel Go app (available on the iPad, iPhone, PC/Macs and selected Samsung Android devices) which features more than 1,000 catch-up TV and movie titles. Previously, Foxtel's foray into online streaming, Foxtel Go, was only available to existing cable or satellite Foxtel subscribers.
The cheapest Foxtel Play package starts at $25 per month, on a month-to-month contract. This consists of one package of channels, out of the four available: Entertainment, Drama, Documentaries and Kids. Additional packages can be ordered at a discount rate, with $50 per month enough to subscribe to all four packages. Users can also opt for a Premium package (which is only available when bundled with at least one of the four standard packages), featuring a selection of Sports or Movie channels.
Foxtel executive director of product Jim Rudder believes Foxtel Play will open up access to Foxtel for people who previously could not obtain a Foxtel cable or satellite connection, or for whom the Internet as a delivery platform makes more sense. "Foxtel Play broadens our internet TV service and gives customers a Foxtel internet TV offering across a host of devices," says Rudder.
