UPC Cablecom launches Horizon

Switzerland’s UPC Cablecom today becomes the second Liberty Global-owned cable operator to launch the next-generation Horizon set-top box, following last September’s launch in the Netherlands.

The Horizon box offers features including a 3D user interface and the ability to record up to four channels at any one time and enables users to view TV programmes on their computer, iPad or iPhone within the home. Horizon includes picture-in-picture functionality, fast channel change and about 175 hours of standard definition recording time or 65 hours of HD recording.

In addition to the functionalities already available in the Netherlands, the version of the box offered to UPC Cablecom customers includes wireless home networking via WLAN, enabling simpler consumption of home media via the TV, and the ability to access background information on shows via apps including WikiTivia or YouTube.

Today’s Swiss launch follows the launch of 21 new TV apps on the Horizon box in the Netherlands last week, taking the number available from 14 to 35. New features include one that gives customers access to Facebook via the remote control or connected iPhones or iPads. Other new apps include Toys From Trash, teaching children how to make toys from discarded products, Moodlounge, allowing customer to display images on TV ranging from an open fire to a disco, UPC Live TV, giving information about upcoming sports and music events on broadcast TV, FC Update, providing football news and TV Buzz Guide, highlighting the most-discussed shows on TV.