Eutelsat and Vestel have jointly announced the commercial launch of a new range of Smart TVs. This innovative technology integrates the enhanced user experience features of Sat.tv Connect. The TVs incorporate both DVB-I and HbbTV standards, providing seamless access to a wide variety of content.
A key feature is the advanced electronic program guide (EPG). This EPG displays hundreds of free-to-air (FTA) TV channels available from prominent satellite TV hotspots, including Hotbird 13° East and Eutelsat-Nilesat 7/8° West. Targeting TV markets across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa (MENA), these Smart TVs with integrated satellite tuners eliminate the need for an external set-top box.
Jean-Luc Deroudilhe, SVP Advanced TV Services at Eutelsat, stated: “This is a fantastic opportunity to bring the Sat.tv service directly into Vestel’s Connected TV. With native support for DVB-I and HbbTV, users can enjoy a very large choice of free satellite channels with a truly enhanced experience and without the need for an external set-top box.”
Developed by Eutelsat, Sat.tv Connect leverages the DVB-I standard to create a unified content discovery experience. The enhanced EPG significantly improves user engagement. Atınç Öğüt, Deputy General Manager of Vestel Consumer Electronics Product Management, commented: “Our strategic partnership with Eutelsat to integrate Sat.tv into Vestel Smart TVs reinforces our commitment to innovation. By pioneering native support for DVB-I, Vestel is not only enhancing the viewing experience, but also shaping the future of television.”
This standards-based solution offers a new way to present FTA channels from Eutelsat's satellites, providing over 30 Sat.tv channel lists organized by country or language. Features like Instant Tuning and LCN Range functions simplify channel installation, offering direct access without time-consuming pre-scanning. The EPG includes channel logos, thumbnails, and detailed program information, seamlessly integrating with the TV's interface.
The hybrid approach combines traditional FTA satellite channels with FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) services, expanding the available content. Vestel Smart TVs with Sat.tv Connect will be available across European and MENA markets from Q3/2025 under brands such as Vestel and Telefunken.