Internet-based television is gradually gaining popularity in the country, with a number of internet service provider (ISP) racing to roll out the service.

Broadlink, an ISP, recently launched its Internet Protocol TV service (IPTV)—“Broadtv”—which can be watched on smart televisions through a set-top box. It has fixed subscription charges at Rs4,000 and Rs6,000 and customers will be able to enjoy a one-month and six-month free schemes depending on the nature of the subscription.

Broadtv is also available on both Apple iOs and Google Android platforms. Customers can download the Broadtv app from Google’s Playstore and Apple’s Appstore and can view contents on laptops, smartphones and tablets. They can record contents as well as rewind, pause play and forward, the company said.

Another ISP, Vianet is following suit. The company is all set to launch its IPTV service in collaboration with NITV

Streamz, which is already selling television contents through a mobile-based application named “NET TV Nepal”.

Vianet officials said they will provide the service through set-top boxes and optical fibre connection. Customers will be able to subscribe to high definition digital contents like television channels, movies and YouTube, among others.

Vianet is currently pilot-testing the IPTV system and will launch the product bundled with existing internet service. “Our unique selling proposition will be the quality of the broadcast and other interactive features,” said Vianet CEO Binay Bohora.

“The product will be a value addition to the internet service as customers will be able to enjoy an entertainment package comprising TV channels, YouTube, movies on demand and other third party contents too.”

He said features like “Capture TV” will enable users to access digital contents as per their preference. “The technology is challenging to execute and equally exciting,” Bohora said, adding subscription charges and billing will be overseen by NITV Streamz—the developer of the software. “In the initial days, we will provide the service to selected customers and roll out a commercial scheme later.”

Currently, Broadlink and NITV Streamz are providing the service through optical fibre connection and mobile-based application. The “NET TV Nepal” app has features live television, movies, TV shows, YouTube Plus and online games. Payment can be made through e-sewa and SCT npay.