Humax have confirmed to PVRJunction the release of a new updated version of the software for Foxsat-HDR Freesat+ PVR customers. It is now with the DTG, who organise the over the air software update timetables, to schedule.

The news clears up some of the uncertainly over when the software update, which has been mostly ready for some time, will be made available; the software release could not take place until the Freesat BBC iPlayer infrastructure could be tested under a wider audience. The software changes include the following items:

    • Support for BBC iPlayer service (service availability to be confirmed by freesat)

    • Auto Delete function included

    • Ability to Delete Recorded Programmes from the Media List while recording or playing back.

    • RGB output available on HD content (Live TV and Recordings)

    • Resolved ITV HD Schedules disappearing after a channel scan

    • Freesat schedules no longer removed after a Manual Tune.

    • Resolved issue with Subtitles appearing when use Time Shift Recording.

    • Resolved issues playing back encrypted HD content from an external device.

    • Diagnostic Menu now displays the signal levels for both tuners correctly.

    • NEW icon now appears in the Media List (Simple view) on Folders with new recordings.

    • Resolved issues with Series schedules failing to record.

    • EPG Genre screen now appears in two columns

    • Resolved Lip-Sync issue resetting after a power cycle.

    • Resolved incorrect character appearing on Postcode in the Diagnostic menu.

    • Resolved lockup issue when recordings 2 TV channels and changing to a Radio channel.

    • Resolved intermittent Lip-sync issue when accessing ITV-HD

    • Changes made to some on screen messages regarding conflicts

Most of the changes are included in the above list, which has one or two additions from our listing on PVRJunction last month. The current plan assumes the software filters out into the public domain from 10th November onwards, with release notes appearing on Humax’s website in due course.

Freesat, the joint venture between the BBC and ITV offering free, digital satellite television service, has won a close fought race to be declared the winner of the Pace/DTG ‘Best Contribution to Digital TV in the UK’ award.

The Award, created by the Digital TV Group, the industry association for digital TV in the UK, and Pace plc, the leading independent developer of digital TV technologies for the global pay TV industry, was presented at the IBC show in Amsterdam on the Pace stand last night (Friday 12 September).

It recognises the project, product or service that has made, or has the potential to make, the biggest contribution to the development of digital TV in the UK

The Freesat service won the award as it has “potential to provide HD to millions of viewers at an economical cost”, it is “pushing the boundaries of the specification to improve the viewer experience” and it “should form a vital element of helping to ensure the UK goes through a successful DSO process”, according to quotes from the voting members of the DTG Council.

Special commendations go to the BBC iPlayer launch on Virgin Media which was the close runner up for the Award. The voting panel commented that the BBC iPlayer service on the Virgin Media platform “has ignited the UK VOD market”, “is the first successful mainstream example of VOD to TV – and as such leads the way to the future” and is “a service that consumers clearly want to use”.

Freesat MD, Emma Scott, said, “Freesat is delighted to accept this award amidst some strong competition. It’s great recognition of the expertise and commitment that’s gone into launching and developing such a great service.”

“With the support of our shareholders BBC and ITV, as well as our channel, manufacturer and retail partners, we have delivered upon our promise of brilliant free digital TV for everyone and provided an excellent value option for those who want high definition TV without subscription. We are very much a vital piece in the future development of UK television.”

Neil Gaydon, Chief Executive Office at Pace plc, commented: “Technology innovation has been central to Pace’s success throughout our history and our reason for creating this Award.  The Freesat service is an excellent example of how this industry is constantly evolving and how consumers are benefiting from new services to access digital TV services.”

Simon Gauntlett, Director of Technology at the Digital TV Group added: “The UK is one of the leading digital TV markets in Europe.  We are leading the way in new technologies and penetration of services.  The Freesat service is a leading example of how the UK has achieved this position, and why we remain at the forefront of the marketplace.”

The Award was voted for by the DTG Council.

Last year’s winner was BSkyB’s SkyHD service.