Virgin Media’s hugely-popular TV V6 set-top box is about to look mightily outdated, as the firm just announced the UK launch of its new TV 360 set-up. Virgin says that this upgraded kit is their “most advanced” and “innovative” TV service to date. Why? Well, for a start, it not only offers viewers a refreshed set-top box design, but also brings the option to seamlessly tune-in to shows and movies in other rooms around the home via the new “mini” devices. TV 360 brings a redesigned user interface to living rooms, which should make it easier to find the content you really want to watch, as well as personalised recommendations for every member of the household.
The new simplified menu system offers quick access to some of the most popular ways to watch – Live TV, Catch Up, as well as your recordings. Plus, there are now family profiles which can be set for specific members of the household. These profiles can be customised so you only see the content that interests you when settling down for a night in front of the telly. Like those found on Netflix, Disney+ and other streaming services, these profiles use your viewing history to suggest new shows and movies that align with your tastes.
Another nice addition is the improved voice search, which is available via a dedicated button the remote. Using spoken commands, you can find shows, skip through content and launch apps. You can even find content based on the name of your favourite actor or the genre of movies.
Of course, one of the most exciting features coming to TV 360 is the standalone “Mini” boxes. These can sit in other rooms and beam content straight from the main set-top device without needing wires trailing up your stairs. A total of two extra boxes can be added to the main TV 360 device, which is the same as what Sky offers via its Sky Q platform.
Like the main device, Virgin says its mini boxes are fully 4K compatible and you can watch live TV, view your recordings or endless on-demand shows via these devices. You can even set recordings and pause telly in one room and pick up from where you left off in another.
Speaking about the upgrade, Chief TV & Entertainment Officer at Virgin Media David Bouchier said: “Virgin TV 360 is our most impressive TV service to date, providing one of the most complete and comprehensive viewing experiences available in the UK. Backed up by our ultrafast broadband, our new service allows TV lovers to watch all of their favourite channels, apps and on-demand content in one place or on the move. This really is game-changing TV and we know our customers will love it.”
And Annie Brooks, Executive Director of Product at Virgin Media, added: “Our customers can already enjoy ultrafast connectivity at their fingertips and now, with the introduction of Virgin TV360, we’re completing the package with seamless entertainment that matches the power and speed of our broadband.”