VOD 365 launches on-demand channels on YouView

VOD 365, which provides branded OTT TV channels via Freeview, Freesat, mobile and smart TV devices, is to launch documentary and sports on-demand channels Planet Knowledge and Sports Channel Network on YouView, the joint venture platform of UK broadcasters and industry groups that is used by BT and TalkTalk for their TV services.

The two on-demand channels, which debut on YouView today, will be available via YouView set-top boxes as smart TVs, Android and iOS smartphones and tablets and the Freesat free-to-air hybrid satellite service, according to the company.

Sports Channel Network offers on-demand sports content including football, golf, fishing, equestrian, winter sports, surfing, motorsport and Formula E motorsport, with live sports content to be added soon.

Planet Knowledge offers free-to-air factual a number in HD.

The partnership between VOD 365 and YouView will see the free-to-stream channels added to YouView’s suite of video-on-demand (VoD) and subscription VoD services. The Planet Knowledge TV Player and Sports Channel Network TV Player join other premium on-demand services on the platform including Netflix, Amazon, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub and Now TV.

Paul Coster

The agreement follows the launch of f VOD 365-owned kids’ on-demand channel, Ketchup, which made its debut on YouView in October.

VOD 365 founder and CEO, Paul Coster, said: “We are extremely pleased to be extending our agreement with YouView which will see both Planet Knowledge and Sports Channel Network joining our kids’ on-demand service, Ketchup, on the YouView platform. Today’s announcement marks a key moment in our distribution strategy and underlines our ability to offer a wide selection of opportunities to our brand advertising partners as we continue to extend our digital reach to UK audiences, who will be able to access these exciting channels via both the on- demand EPG channel listings and app.”

David Faulkner, head of corporate and business development, YouView said: “Following the recent roll out of Ketchup TV in October, we are delighted to welcome both Planet Knowledge and Sports Channel Network to YouView’s line up of players. They complement the existing line up nicely, bringing more great content to our viewers, across the UK.”