Telstra to launch set-top box device

Telecommunications giant Telstra could launch a video recording and set-top box device before the end of the year, news.com.au is reporting.

The “T-Box”, which could hit shelves as early as December, is apparently part of a plan to move content offered under the online “Bigpond” brand from computers to televisions.

The launch of such a device would put Telstra in competition with pay-TV giant Foxtel, which offers a set-top box and video recorder through its “Foxtel iQ” service.

The content, which would likely be delivered under a broadband connection, would offer programs including broadcasts of AFL and rugby league games, and could effectively position the company as a commercial television network.

The company already offers music downloads under the Bigpond brand, but it is unknown whether this service would be available under a model designed for television.