Channel 4 has announced that All 4, the rebranded 4oD, will land March 30.
Channel 4 confirmed its plan to give 4oD a makeover last year and now we’ve got a clear idea of when we’ll actually be able to see it.
Launching first for desktop and iOS devices, All 4 will eventually roll out to Android, TiVo, YouView and other connected services that currently feature 4oD apps. HD streams will not be available from launch, although we understand this will be added in future as All 4 rolls out to more platforms.
As well as launching with a fresh UI, All 4 will allow Channel 4 to serve customers recommendations.
Keith Underwood, director of strategy and technology said: “All 4 builds on a heritage of pioneering digital innovation at Channel 4. Back in 2006, Channel 4 became the first broadcaster in the world to offer long-form TV content on-demand with the launch of our 4oD service. Now, the replacement of 4oD with All 4 embodies our strategy of providing a wider range of increasingly personalised digital services to registered users.
“This launch is the first release in a major transformation programme which will serve to consolidate our digital services and transform our relationship with viewers.”
You’ll now be required to register with All 4 before you can start streaming repeats of your favourite shows. This gives Channel 4 the option to offer recommendations – although we understand that these can be turned off if you don’t want a curated experience.
Channel 4 has also commissioned a bunch of new content with which to premier the service’s dedicated ‘Shorts’ section. Viewers will be able to enjoy titles like Rich Kids Go Shopping, Drones In Forbidden Zones and Drinking With, which will see a 77 year old connoisseur exploring the world’s assorted drinking cultures. Though whether they’ll get around to a Cheeky Vimto, kebab and punch up episode, we don’t know.
The service will be launched in partnership with O2, and will serve up some new content, including shows like Peep Show, Fresh Meat and Made In Chelsea. O2 Priority customers will be able to see the new episodes 48 hours before anyone else.
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