Panasonic HD TV with built in Freesat

Panasonic have launched 3 new televisions that feature a built in Freesat receiver.
The three televisions are all Full-HD plasma screens, ranging from 42inch through to 50inch screen size. The inclusion of freesat receivers in the televisions marks a breakthrough in digital tv for the consumer. Removing the need for an extra freesat box under your telly, getting rid of that extra remote control and also, removing the need for extra wiring between your TV and your freesat box can only be beneficial to the consumers. I wonder how long it will take for other manufacturers to follow suit.

The Panasonic Viera PZ81 series has three models: TH-42PZ81, TH-46PZ81 and TH-50PZ81. They are stylish and offer Panasonic quality.

BBC Freesat Video

BBC video reporting on Freesat highlighting the fact that freesat should solve the problem that many of us face in not being able to get a digital signal in our areas. Also points out that Sky might have a similar free satellite service though the BBC contends that Sky's free service is simply there to lure people in and convert them into paying customers.

BBC's Mark Thompson introduces Freesat

At the press conference earlier today, Mark Thompson of the BBC introduced the new Freesat service. Check out the video clip.

He notes that one of the aims of Freesat is to make digital television available to people who do not want to pay a subscription; obviously, alluding to Sky's subscription based satellite service without actually naming his competitor.

Freesat website updated

To celebrate the launch of Freesat, the Freesat website has been updated. It now has a new look and information about the Freesat service. Including information about the available channels (over 80 of them) and the on-screen programme guide.

There is also information about the various retailers that are offering the Freesat set top boxes, and some info about the boxes themselves (there are different versions - HD, non-HD, integrated PVR, Integrated TV).

Here's a screenshot: