SKYBOXE plans to launch a wireless set-top box combining Internet, WiFi router, Android TV and local over-the-air broadcast channels in one device. The box, intended for wireless operators, is expected to be available in the first quarter of 2020, initially with 4G LTE technology, and will be upgraded to 5G when available.
SKYBOXE is intended to allow consumers to completely "cut the cord' by going totally wireless for both video and Internet, rather than buying Internet access from a cable TV or hardwire telephone company; subscribing to one or more over-the-top (OTT) video content services like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime; and using a smart TV or an IPTV device like Roku, Apple TV, or Google Chromecast to watch TV shows and movies.
Powered by Android TV and partnered with a major U.S. mobile phone carrier, the SKYBOXE device will be provided at no charge in return for signing up for wireless broadband Internet service with which the hardware is packaged. In addition, SKYBOXE will serve as the WiFi router for the home, capture all local digital TV channels, and allow consumers to custom configure and control their own TV service. The company also offers a digital HDTV antenna as a complement to the SKYBOXE.