GMA Network Launches GMA Now Device

The Philippines’ GMA Network has unveiled the mobile digital terrestrial television (DTT) receiver GMA Now.

A plug-and-play dongle, GMA Now lets users watch TV on the go for free and enjoy exclusive interactive features. It enables Android smartphones to receive clear and live digital TV broadcasts of the channels GMA, GMA News TV, Heart of Asia and Hallypop, and soon, DepEd TV, as well as other free-to-air channels available in their area.

The bonus interactive features that GMA Now users can enjoy include the GMA Videos-On-Demand tab, which enables access to exclusive Kapuso content whenever they want. The messaging service Groupee Chat allows viewers to create groups and chat with family and friends while watching GMA programs. They will also soon be able to get the latest updates on their favorite Kapuso shows via this feature. GMA Now’s Interactive Promos let users partake in quizzes and polls for a chance to win prizes.

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.

Felipe L. Gozon, GMA Network Chairman and CEO, said: “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.”

Dennis Augusto L. Caharian, GMA New Media president and COO, said: “We are very proud of this opportunity given to us by GMA to evolve the business further and use technology as a way to navigate ever-changing viewing preferences. With GMA Now, viewers can watch their favorite programs, and more importantly, engage more fully with the shows. It is a new experience that we are happy to have helped create.”