hayu deliver offline downloads and Apple TV app

NBCUniversal's reality TV app hayu has announced the launch of an Apple TV app for its over-the-top video service, along with the ability to watch shows offline. Subscribers without an internet connection on their mobile device will now be able to watch hayu content on the go.

While hayu bills itself as the first all-reality SVOD service, the introduction of offline downloads is an industry-leading move in Australia with hayu being the first to offer the feature.

No firm date yet has been announced for either the Apple TV app or for the offline downloads on mobile devices, but it is expected to be before Christmas.

With over 3,000 episodes of reality fare including Keeping Up with the Kardashians and its spin-offs, The Real Housewives, Million Dollar Listing, and Top Chef franchises, hayu also shook up the local distribution of these marquee reality shows by offering the majority of series on the same day as US broadcast.

“This latest milestone is a testament to our dual goal of growing reach and distribution while constantly innovating the hayu experience,” commented Hendrik McDermott, SVP, Branded On-Demand, NBCUniversal. “In the six months since launch, users have made it clear that they want the ability to access content wherever they are and that they crave the ability to easily stream hayu to a large screen. We are delighted to make hayu episodes available for offline viewing and be available across a broader number of platforms.”

Foxtel residential subscribers, whose subscription package include the channel E! Entertainment Television, have access to the streaming service, as part of their existing Foxtel subscription, at no extra cost. This offer does not extend to subscribers with access to E! on other platforms, such as Fetch TV.