Homes seeking an upgrade similar to Sky Q without monthly fees can explore the popular new Manhattan S4-R set-top box available at Argos. Launched recently, this device offers features comparable to Sky’s premium service, enabling users to record shows, pause live TV, and store content on its internal hard drive.
The standout feature of the Manhattan S4-R is its cost structure. In contrast to Sky Q’s subscription model, the Manhattan S4-R provides access to over 100 channels without any ongoing payments once the device is purchased. This is possible because the S4-R is compatible with Freesat, leveraging existing satellite dishes to deliver free TV channels directly to televisions. Notable channels accessible through this system include BBC, ITV1, Channel 4, E4, Legend, Sky Mix, TLC, U&Dave, and That’s TV 2.
Manhattan emphasizes the user-friendly design of the S4-R, boasting a straightforward interface, built-in search functionalities, and access to a vast library of on-demand entertainment totaling over 60,000 hours. Supported apps include BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, and My5.
While not competing with Sky Q’s premium sports and movie packages, Freesat’s main draw is its cost-free viewing experience. The Manhattan S4-R 500GB model is currently available at retailers like Argos and Amazon for £219.99, with larger 1TB and 2TB versions anticipated to launch soon. Demand for the S4-R is high, as indicated by Argos listing the device as “in demand” and “selling fast.”
In a statement regarding the launch, Manhattan COO Alex Arbab-Zadeh expressed the company’s goal of offering a subscription-free experience to Freesat users akin to its T4-R Freeview recorder. Highlighting the S4-R’s enhanced recording capabilities, Arbab-Zadeh pointed out that it allows for up to four simultaneous recordings, a significant improvement over the previous two-channel limit.
The S4-R is not the sole disruptor in the traditional TV landscape. The recently unveiled Pleio puck also aims to revolutionize the market by providing free streaming access to TVs without the need for an aerial. This setup delivers over 50 live channels via the internet rather than traditional broadcast methods.
Following initial stock shortages, the Pleio puck is now back in stock through retailers such as Amazon and eBay, priced at £99.99 and including a gaming controller along with access to over 200 online games.
In other news, Sky has announced a 20% price reduction ahead of the upcoming World Cup. Prices for the Sky Glass Air TV start from £4.50 per month, with the upgraded Sky Glass Gen 2 model, featuring a 4K Quantum Dot display and built-in Dolby Atmos soundbar, available from £11 per month.