Cello Electronics launches UK's first BBC iPlayer television

Cello Electronics has launched another UK first – the iViewer – a TV that allows consumers to stream BBC iPlayer directly through their TVs without the need for a set top box or games console.

British LCD TV company Cello Electronics has launched another UK first – the iViewer – a TV that allows consumers to stream BBC iPlayer directly through their TVs without the need for a set top box or games console. Like any normal computer, the iViewer connects to the internet directly via an Ethernet cable (supplied) or Wi-Fi dongle (optional extra) – all that’s required is a broadband service.

The TV will allow internet based media that was once only available through a computer to be accessed directly through a TV and as well as accessing BBC iPlayer directly, the iViewer also streams YouTube and an array of other online channels. It can also access a person’s home computer so pictures stored there can be viewed directly through the TV.

Additional online channels that can be streamed directly through the iViewer include Disney Movies Preview, Movie Rush, Autocar Magazine, Sky Sports Boots and All, the CNN daily video podcast, Jamie’s Ministry of Food, Delicious TV Veg, Revision 3 Diggnation and the Larry King video podcast.

Initially available in 32″ and 26″ models, the iViewer TV also comprises integrated digital freeview channels, two HDMI sockets, an easy-to-use user interface menu, fast channel search and seven day electronic programme guide. The 32″ version is full HD, (1080p) while the 26″ version is HD Ready. A table stand and intuitively designed remote control which operates the iViewer as well as satellite boxes are also included with the TV.

The iViewer will be available from Marks & Spencer online from mid December under an exclusive arrangement with Cello, with demand expected to exceed supply prior to Christmas due to limited sets being available.

Priced at £399 for the 26″ version and £499 for the full HD 32″ version, the TV really is set to revolutionise TV viewing, making catch up TV easier than ever to access and meaning consumers will no longer have to worry about missing their favourite BBC TV or radio programmes from the last seven days.

Cello Electronics is a leading manufacturer of cutting-edge, affordable LCD TVs which has been operating since 2001 and ranked number 42 in this year’s Sunday Times Tech Track 100, which lists the fastest growing technology companies in the UK. Based in the north of England and boasting a turnover of £40m, Cello invests heavily in R&D meaning it is able to bring new technology to the market place quickly and cost effectively. It also operates the best after-sales services in the industry, through associate company Contrast Technology.

As well as selling its own brand products via retailers including the co-op, Netto, Sainsbury’s, JD Williams, Express Gifts, Bennetts Retail, Tesco (Southern Ireland), Staples and Office Depot, Cello also owns an additional brand Neon, which is sold exclusively through Morrisons Supermarkets. In addition, the company also manufactures own brand products for the likes of Marks & Spencer, Littlewoods, Grattan, Next and German brand SEG.

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