Channel 4 and Talk Talk join Canvas

UK public service broadcaster Channel 4 and internet service provider Talk Talk have joined Canvas, the proposed UK video-on-demand platform that would see content delivered over the internet to Freeview and Freesat set-top boxes and connected TV sets.

The two new parties takes the total number involved in the joint-venture to six, along with broadcasters the BBC, ITV, Five and telco BT. In a joint statement, the partners said they “now wish to invite any further expressions of interest from companies interested in becoming part of the joint venture”.

The BBC’s involvement in Canvas is subject to BBC Trust approval. If the proposals are approved, the partners would form a new joint venture to develop the technical specification for devices with standards body the Digital Television Group, create and market a new consumer brand, build a common user experience and build the technology platform.