Hathway has unveiled a new OTT set-top box and a cable hybrid box and the newly introduced boxes will be available to the local cable operators from 15 October and consumer registrations will start by November 1st. The OTT set-top box is based on Google’s Android TV and the remote carries a dedicated YouTube, Netflix and Google Play button. It also features voice-enabled Google assistant and inbuilt Chromecast.
The hybrid cable box named- Hathway Ultra Smart HUB combines linear TV with Play services in HDR quality along with easy navigation. It will enable users to download apps from the Google Play store. The cable hybrid boxes will be available in areas where Hathway cable is functional. However, the OTT box can reach areas where there’s no cable but Hathway’s broadband service is offered.
Both the new OTT set-top box and a cable hybrid box are priced at Rs.2,999 and as mentioned, it will be available to the local cable operators from 15th October and consumer registrations will start by November 1st.
Pranab MookkenAndroid, Chrome & Play Business Development head India said:
We are pleased to be working with Hathway and look forward to leveraging their extensive broadband and cable network to enable more exciting and useful Android TV experiences for consumers.
Rajan Gupta, Hathway Cable, and Datacom MD said:
When we developed Ultra Smart Hub, the most important aspect has been listening to our customers to understand their needs regarding their TV viewing. We see a clear shift in consumption in content today compared to earlier. Indian consumers today want a mix of traditional linear television viewing combined with on-demand or streaming services. With the Smart Hub we have a product that meets their expectations.
In general, any OTT service providers will be more than happy to do such tie-ups because it will help them increasing reach. Starting 1 December we will have a TVC for this product. Our marketing team is working on a 360-degree marketing campaign. Creating awareness, right from metros, mini metros to rural will be the key. We will also be working closely with our LCO partners. In fact, we will be rolling out first with them and apart from TVC we will also take help from them to create awareness.