DTH operators are currently focusing on improving their services because the new tariff regime has made some massive changes to the industry. Almost every DTH and Cable TV operator is jumping onto introducing something better to match the competition. One such offering from Bharti Airtel's digital TV arm, Airtel Digital TV is Airtel Internet TV which offers both Android TV and DTH services. Airtel Internet TV is an Android-based set-top box which can be purchased from the official website of the company or from Amazon India. Airtel Internet TV offers voice search functionality, games, recording Live TV feature, and more importantly, it allows users to stream content from OTT platforms like Hotstar, Amazon Prime, Netflix and so on.
Courtesy of this unique offering, buyers of the Airtel Internet TV, have access to content services like Netflix, Amazon Prime and more but the most fundamental advantage which the users of Internet TV will get the additional access to DTH channels as well. What’s more, the Airtel Internet TV will avail a built-in Chromecast so that users will be able to stream content from their mobile phones also. The device also allows 4K support, meaning as long as your TV can support 4K you will be able to stream 4K videos from Netflix and other sources.
Airtel Internet TV Specifications
Under the hood, the Airtel Internet TV packs a Dual-core ARM B15 BCM7252S chipset and it supports media formats like MPEG-2, MPEG-4, H.265, H.264, MC, VC-1, VP9, AVI, MP-4, FLV, 3GP, WMV, MOV, MP4 and MKV. Apart from that, the set-top box comes with 8GB internal storage which is expandable up to 128GB with a microSD card slot. Connectivity options on this device include Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.1, Ethernet, HDMI 2.0, 1xUSB 3.0, 1xUSB 2.0 and Optical SPDIF.
Advantages of Airtel Internet TV
In case you are someone who likes to consume visual content both from your DTH connection as well as online, then the Airtel Internet TV will be the right choice for you. The Set-top Box will also allow you to record your shows, mirror your smartphone screen so that you will be able to watch your presentation or play Android games on the bigger screen. In case you want to record shows, you will be able to do so on the STB as it supports memory extension up to 128GB via a microSD card. As for the connectivity, you will be able to connect the Airtel Internet TV box via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Airtel Internet TV Pricing
Airtel's service is currently priced at Rs 3,499 which will be the upfront cost of the Airtel TV box. This price will also include a one-month content bundle of Eros Now and DTH. When the service was launched it was costing Rs 7,999 for an annual subscription, however, Airtel Internet TV is now selling the product for Rs 3,499. It is worth noting that all other streaming services like Netflix and more will be paid by the users additionally. It is also worth noting that since the Airtel Internet TV service is tied entirely to your DTH subscription, a disconnection with the same will mean that you won’t be able to use the service further on. If you disconnect from Airtel, then you might also have to return the Airtel TV box.
