Philippine media giant GMA Network today formally launched the GMA Now—a plug-and-play USB TV dongle. According to GMA Network, the purpose of this mobile digital terrestrial television (DTT) receiver was designed to allow users to watch TV on the go for FREE and enjoy exclusive interactive features. GMA Now can enable Android smartphones to receive clear and live digital TV broadcasts on "Kapuso" channels like GMA, GMA News TV, Heart of Asia, Hallypop, and soon, DepEd TV, as well as other free-to-air channels available in their area.
When connected to the internet, this
device can allow its users to enjoy a few interactive features. Through the GMA
Videos-On-Demand tab, MA Now users can likewise get access to exclusive Kapuso
content whenever they want.
As the country's leading broadcast
network, it is only fitting that we continue to improve our content and
innovate our digital TV products. This is our way of expressing gratitude to
our loyal Kapuso for their unceasing support. We are proud to say that GMA Now
is the first mobile DTT receiver to combine traditional TV with the advantages
of interactivity via the internet. This product was developed by our digital
media and technology arm GMA New Media, Inc. with the Filipino viewers in mind
as we adapt to their evolving needs and interests, shared by GMA Network, Inc.
Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon.
GMA Now also has the Groupee Chat
exclusive messaging service which allows viewers to create groups and chat with
family and friends while watching GMA programs. Soon, with this feature, users
get updates on their favorite Kapuso shows. It also has Interactive Promos
where users can join fun quizzes and pills for a chance to win prizes.
The local network giant noted that GMA Now
is available in portions of Metro Manila, Rizal, Bulacan, Pampanga, Cavite,
Laguna, Baguio City, Pangasinan, Batangas, Metro Cebu, Metro Davao, and Cagayan
de Oro. GMA shared that this device will also be available for Apple iPhone
users. To use GMA Now, just download the GMA Now app from the Google Play Store
to register for free and attach the GMA Now dongle on the smartphone.
It is also worth noting that the press
renders of the device show that the dongle has only a micro-USB plug. You may
need an adapter if you are using an Android phone with USB Type-C. GMA Now
price is PHP 649. The GMA Now Digital TV dongle is now available for purchase
at the GMA Stores on Shopee and Lazada. It is also available in several gadget
stores nationwide.
