This just in: Super broadband Internet and HD cable TV provider SkyCable has just announced that it will launch a TiVo-like service for SkyCable HD subscribers within the first 3 months of 2011. Simply called the "PVR" or personal video recorder (unimaginative name still subject to change), the device will finally let Filipino TV junkies party like it's 1999!
The PVR contains a 500GB hard drive, which is good for recording up to 135 hours of high-definition (HD) videos or 217 hours of standard definition (SD) videos. Unlike regular DVRs (digital video recorders), the PVR uses the built-in EPG or the Electronic Program Guide to let you select which shows you want to record. It also has a Time Shift feature, which lets you leave the TV without missing a single second of the program by recording the live feed in the background.
According to Ray Montinola, SkyCable's marketing head, the price of the service is still TBA, although he did say that the PVR will be available on a lease basis. That means as long as a subscriber chooses to retain his or her subscription, he or she will get to keep the box.
Now we're sure you guys are wondering just as we did: Will the PVR pose a threat to high-speed broadband Internet now that subscribers no longer need to download shows? Surprisingly, Montinola says "that remains to be seen" and that they "will look more into it," although the company remains confident that the 2 offerings will complement each other.
As for offering a non-HD version of the box, well, sorry to say but that's not an option, as the company says they're moving forward with HD technology. Which is another way of saying we'll all have to upgrade sooner rather than later.
See also