BlueSky TV's voice remote will enable subscribers to search for content by actor, genre, or popularity, among other factors. Subscribers will be able to access content from a variety of sources, including live broadcast, PVR recorded, on-demand or over-the-top (OTT).
Shaw also will offer content packages targeted at individual demographics. For example, sports fans will have access to real-time scores, standings, player stats, etc. A Kids Zone will offer content suitable for children.
"Powered by Comcast's next generation X1 platform, Shaw BlueSky TV leverages the strength of our network to make this new television experience possible for Shaw customers," said Brad Shaw, CEO of Shaw Communications. "We are proud to be the first in Canada to pioneer Comcast's ground-breaking technology and to be their first international partner."
Shaw will roll out BlueSky TV first in Calgary, with availability in other markets to follow "in the coming months," according to a press release. Bundled with Shaw's WideOpen Internet 150, BlueSky TV pricing will start at $99.90 per month for the first 12 months as part of a two-year ValuePlan.
Shaw launched FreeRange TV, a TV Everywhere service based on X1 and Cisco technology, in January 2016 (see "Shaw Taps Comcast, Cisco for TVE"). Fellow Canadian operator Rogers Communications plans to use X1 technology in its network as well (see "Rogers to Deploy Comcast X1 Cloud Video").