Alex Zaharov-Reutt
Saturday, 20 September 2008 14:37
Opinion and Analysis
Page 1 of 2
Foxtel is progressively rolling out its “four tuners” functionality
that allows 2 shows to be recorded while you watch one live – but
what’s happened to the fourth tuner?!
Over the next few months, Foxtel is progressively rolling out an upgrade to its HD-equipped iQ2 personal digital recorder (PDR), delivering on one of the features previously promised when the box was first launched.
Although the iQ2 already lets you record two programs simultaneously, the ability to watch a third one live is the key difference, with the fourth tuner apparently being reserved for Foxtel's “On Demand” movie functionality.
December 1 is the date that all iQ2 boxes are meant to be upgraded by, so you’ll need to experiment with recording two channels and try watching a third live channel to see if you’ve been upgraded yet, although presumably there would be some notification of an update once you’ve received it.
Given that the upgrades started from September 16, some iQ2 users are enjoying the new functionality right now
Foxtel claims this upgrade will make the iQ2 “the most advanced PDR currently available in Australia”, and quotes PDR research suggesting that multi-channel recording capabilities “contribute to a more harmonious household for both families and couples, with a solid 75 percent of Australian homes with a PDR finding the technology indispensable.”
Foxtel also says that: “Of those homes using a PDR in Australia, 76 percent of families experience fewer arguments over what to watch, and 78 percent of couples say it has dramatically enhanced their relationship as each person can enjoy their own programs.”
Foxtel’s Patrick Delany, executive of Product and Sales said: “Never miss your favourite TV show and watch programs when you want to, as the iQ2 will now let you watch live Monday Night Football, while recording Project Runway and a movie for the kids, all at the same time.”
Continued on page 2.
