moneysupermarket.com: launch of Freesat

Commenting on the launch of Freesat Rob Barnes, head of broadband and mobiles at moneysupermarket.com, said: "The launch of Freesat will be great for the market as it provides consumers with more choice through an array of different packages to suit different needs. However, the initial cost could be prohibitive, it looks likely to cost around £250 for installation and a dish. With the current selection of HD channels its not great value considering a Freeview box costs from as little as £15. Also, Sky and Virgin Media's triple bundle offerings start at £26 and include broadband and homephone services.

"If Freesat fulfils its promise to deliver up to 200 new channels by the end of the year it does becomes a very interesting proposition, and will provide a great solution for those who cannot currently receive Freeview TV via their existing aerial.

"Freesat could also connect broadband to homes that would've previously found it difficult to get access by enabling a connection via the set-top box. This will be a huge benefit to those who live outside an LLU network, or those who don't have access to the best deals on the market just because they live in a certain part of the UK. Although it remains to be seen whether they will be able to deliver a ‘speedy' service."