Telstra has signaled their intention to embrace subscription streaming, not just its own Presto, but also rival services Stan and Netflix, and it's doing it by bringing the previously US, UK and Canada only Roku device to Australian shores.
Re-branded Telstra TV, the sub $100 (estimated Australian pricing, the Roku 2 box which the Telstra TV device is based on costs USD $59 in the US) media player will bring together all of Australia's streaming services on the one box, as well as catch-up services from so far unspecified free-to-air networks.
To be launched in September, the media player will come loaded with apps from Presto, Netflix and Telstra's own Bigpond Movies. An app for Stan will be made available soon after the launch, according to Telstra media managing director Joe Pollard.
Powered by a Dual Arm A9 1Ghz Processor with 512 MB of RAM, the Telstra TV box, if the Roku experience is anything to go by, will offer a responsive and simple to use interface that can combine all your digital streaming and download needs. The device will most likely be provided with frequent software updates, something that has endeared the Roku to its loyal customers.
With the device expected to be available on the 15th of September via all Telstra channels, Telstra also plans on giving users an unique streaming plan that bundles all three major streaming services, Netflix, Stan and Presto, into one plan for less than $30 per month (currently costs $8.99, $10 and $14.99 separately).
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