Argos is offering a new device, the Manhattan S4-R set-top box, as an alternative to Sky Q-style upgrades that require monthly fees. This device provides features similar to Sky’s premium service, such as recording programs, pausing live TV, and storing content on its built-in hard drive. The main advantage of the Manhattan S4-R is that it offers access to over 100 channels without any additional monthly payments, unlike Sky Q.
Operating with Freesat, the S4-R utilizes an existing satellite dish to deliver free TV channels directly to your TV, including popular channels like BBC, ITV1, Channel 4, E4, and others. The device boasts a user-friendly interface, built-in search functionality, and access to a vast library of on-demand content, including apps like BBC iPlayer and My5.
While it may not compete with Sky Q in premium sports and movie packages, Freesat’s key benefit is its free viewing experience. The Manhattan S4-R 500GB model is currently priced at £219.99 and can be purchased from retailers like Argos and Amazon. Larger 1TB and 2TB versions are set to launch soon, with high demand already noted by Argos.
Manhattan’s COO, Alex Arbab-Zadeh, emphasized the S4-R’s enhanced recording capabilities, allowing up to four simultaneous recordings compared to the previous two-channel limit. This device aims to provide households with a cost-effective alternative to subscription TV services, offering more flexibility and choice.
In a similar move, the Pleio puck has entered the market, offering freely streaming access to TV channels without requiring an aerial. Priced at £99.99, the Pleio puck includes a gaming controller and access to over 200 online games. Sky has also announced a 20% price reduction for its Sky Glass Air TV, with prices starting from £4.50 per month, ahead of the upcoming World Cup.