Project Canvas has confirmed that it will be called YouView when it launches in sometime before July 2011.
YouView logo YouView logo
The first application from the project will be a seven-day EPG that goes both forwards and backwards, offering free catch-up TV from the content providers among the project’s backers, namely the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Five. The project’s other backers are BT, TalkTalk and Arqiva.
Richard Halton, the former project director who now assumes the position of CEO of YouView TV Ltd, said: “YouView is a brilliant new subscription-free TV service which combines the best TV with on-demand services and internet content. I am delighted to be leading the team who will make it a reality and think it will change the way we watch TV forever.”
As well as its free content, the platform is also expected to offer some pay-per-view material and Halton said there had been interest from X Factor producer Freemantle and ITV about the prospect of micropayments.
Consumers will be able to get the service via a set-top box, expected to cost around £200 or be bundled with deals from internet providers.