French electronics giant Sagem has announced its move into the freesat market with the DSI86HD receiver. Combined with a satellite dish, the device will offer UK viewers the full 140-channel range of the subscription-free service, as well as automatic channel search, eight-day electronic programme guide and parental control options.
The device promises built-in ‘intelligent upscaling’ which claims to upscale standard-def content to 1080i HD with suitable TVs. New users can use their existing satellite dish from another provider eg Sky or buy a full installation package with new dish.
The DSI86HD is available now from Argos for £130 and will be followed later in the summer by the DTR84250S and DTR84500S recordable freesat receivers for £250 and £300.