UK-based telecommunications company Virgin Media O2 has announced that it will be releasing Virgin TV Stream, a new streaming device that will enter the market as direct competition to the Sky Glass and Sky Q platforms.
The device will come equipped with redesigned software and hardware and will connect to any TV through an HDMI port, providing users with instant access to Virgin Media's television offerings. In addition, Virgin TV Stream will offer a comprehensive interface that integrates traditional cable TV with all major OTT streamers, including Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video.
According to Lutz Schüler, Virgin Media O2's CEO, the new platform will launch in "early 2022," but will not be accompanied by a new television release, as was the case with the Sky Q and Sky Glass.
Fully-Integrated Streaming Devices
Virgin Media's New Streaming Platform Looks to Compete with Sky
Trend Themes
1. Comprehensive Streaming Devices - Companies can create fully-integrated streaming devices that allow access to traditional cable TV and all major OTT streamers in one interface.
2. Redesigned Software and Hardware - There is an opportunity for companies to offer improved streaming devices by providing new hardware and software.
3. No-tv Streaming Devices - Companies can create streaming devices that do not require a new television release, allowing access to streaming services through an HDMI port on any TV.
Industry Implications
1. Telecommunications - Telecommunications companies can compete with cable TV by developing streaming devices with improved design, comprehensive interfaces, and better hardware and software.
2. Consumer Electronics - Consumer electronics companies can create new streaming devices that offer seamless integration with traditional cable TV and all major OTT streamers, as well as better hardware and software for improved user experience.
3. Media and Entertainment - Media and entertainment companies can partner with telecommunications and consumer electronics firms to expand their reach and offer better access to their content through comprehensive streaming devices.