New Backwards EPG will pit Freeview against YouView

Freeview looks likely to go head to head with YouView by launching a backwards electronic programme guide. The upgrade to Freeview’s broadband-connected set-top boxes will allow users to access the past week’s worth of content via video-on-demand (VoD) systems.

According to Broadcast, it is not currently clear whether the move will enable Freeview households to choose individual shows from the last seven days at the touch of a button or act as a VoD shortcut, but it is believed that pre-installation is likely to be required – rather than a simple software update.

Ilse Howling, managing director of Freeview is quoted as saying:

“It’s too early to say when they will be available, but that is our direction of travel. Already, around one-third of Freeview TVs are connectable. Viewers will be increasingly unaware if they are accessing connected TV services.”