TCL has launched TCLtv+, a new streaming service that provides access to more than 200 free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channels, a catalog of free on-demand content, and additional unique features.
TCL launching a new streaming service is not that surprising. Ignoring the fact that so many companies, including TV makers, are launching their own free services, TCL recently announced new FAST agreements with both Xumo and Cineverse.
At the time, there was the clear suggestion that these agreements were part of a wider content refresh at TCL. That’s exactly what now seems to be happening with the launch of TCLtv+, a streaming service that doesn’t require any subscriptions, fees or logins.
“As a top two best-selling TV brand in the U.S. for four consecutive years, TCL is constantly innovating and looking for ways to offer our customers greater value and more importantly, a better experience. Providing free content plays a huge part in our continuing success so we are excited make our mark on the streaming world with TCLtv+,” said Mark Zhang, President, TCL North America.
Similar to how LG, Samsung, and Vizio all offer a free streaming service to users of their TVs, TCLtv+ is designed to be accessed on TCL televisions. According to the announcement, the service is now live in the US and Canada, but only on TCL TVs with Google TV.
This Google TV requirement is only for now, as the company also confirmed that the streaming service would become available soon on TCL sets powered by Roku TV and Fire TV.
In addition to the more than 200 FAST channels, the TCLtv+ streaming service also unlocks access to more than 1500 on-demand movies and TV series from major and independent studios. Some of the studios mentioned by TCL include Scripps Media, Fremantle, NBC Universal, FilmRise, and Banijay, among others.
In addition to the live channels and on-demand library, TCL also says that the new service offers “several unique features,” including the ability to “connect viewers directly with their favorite characters in new interactive on-screen experiences.”
In an example of these new interactive on-screen experiences, TCL explains that an animated chef can be used to “walk viewers through a recipe that uses specific ingredients in their kitchen while watching a cooking show.”
Other features mentioned include access to instant summaries and detailed recaps, and even programming recommendations to perfectly match a meal delivery.
