VoD boost for Freesat

The Freesat satellite TV service will offer on-demand content, with the BBC’s iPlayer launching in beta on Freesat from December 7, and the ITV Player launching in the first half of 2010.

The services will eventually be available to viewers with an HDTV with integrated Freesat, or a Freesat HD box and ethernet connection, although the iPlayer beta will initially only be available to approved journalists and partners.

However the company is aiming for a full launch before Christmas.

It will be the first time that the ITV Player has been available on a free-to-air service.

The new developments will see traditional television delivered via satellite while video on demand will be delivered through the Ethernet internet connection.

Freesat is also expected to incorporate the BBC’s Project Canvas service, when this becomes available.